Dutch Oven Quick Bread

I have always been terrified to bake bread. I'm not sure if it is because it sounds time consuming, or because I'm simply afraid of pulling out a total flop from the oven. At some point in the last year I realized that I really love trying new bread recipes, and that it helps a great deal with dinners and creative meal planning. In this home we do not shy away from gluten, but if you are legitimately allergic (CD) or just jumping on that GF train, you can easily adapt this recipe using other flours. Clear a space on your counter and grab some yeast!

Ingredients:

-4-4 1/2 Cups bread flour -2 Tablespoons yeast -2 Tablespoons sugar -2 Cups warm water -1 1/2 Tablespoons salt

Instructions:

-Proof yeast by combining the yeastm sugar, and warm water in the bottom of a bowl or stand mixer. Gently stir, and let rest for 10-15 minutes, or until foamy.

-In a separate bowl sift floar and salt, combining well.

-Add the flour mixture one cup at a time to the yeast mixture in the stand mixer. Using a dough hook works best. The dough will start to come together. It will be sticky. Continue to add flour 1/2 cup at a time until ball forms. Let the mixer knead the dough for a few minutes. Dump the dough onto floured surface and knead for roughly 5 minutes.

-Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover the top with a lightly damp kitchen towel. Let is rise for 20-30 minutes.

As you can see, the dough will get significantly larger! This is exactly what you should be looking for when the time is up. Since I was chasing a toddler around, I think mine set for a little bit longer than 30 minutes...moms you know the drill. Luckily, this recipe does great if you need to step away for longer than planned.

-Now is the time you will preheat the oven to 400* WITH THE DUTCH OVEN INSIDE. Also do NOT punch this dough down. Cover the dough (bottom and top) with flour, and gently set it inside your dutch oven. I didn't grease mine or lay down paper, but I most likely will next time. Make 3 slits about 1/2" deep.

-Bake for 30 minutes covered, then remove top and bake for 7-10 minutes more until desired browned crust.

ENJOY!!!

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