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Soft and Crusty Garlic Herb Dutch Oven Bread

Soft and Crusty Garlic Herb Dutch Oven Bread You'll Love

Enjoy the art of baking with this Soft and Crusty Garlic Herb Dutch Oven Bread, perfect for any meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Best of 2025
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Consider using bread flour for extra chew.
  • 2 teaspoons salt Try kosher or sea salt for a nuanced taste.
  • 1 tablespoon instant yeast Active dry yeast is a good substitute.
  • 1.75 cups warm water Ensure it reaches 110°F (43°C) for effective yeast activation.
  • 1/4 cup olive oil Swap with melted butter for a lighter version.
For the Flavor
  • 4 cloves minced garlic Fresh or jarred varieties work well.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary Use thyme or sage in a 1:3 ratio as an alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme Can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano Can be replaced with Italian seasoning.
  • to taste black pepper Provides a hint of heat.
For Topping (Optional)
  • optional herbs and sea salt Sprinkle on top before baking for flavor.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 1 tablespoon of instant yeast in a large mixing bowl until well-blended.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 and 3/4 cups of warm water, 1/4 cup of olive oil, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh rosemary, 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme, 1 tablespoon of dried oregano, and black pepper to taste.
  3. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing until a shaggy, sticky dough forms.
  4. Cover the bowl tightly and let it rise at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours.
  5. Lightly flour your work surface, turn the dough out, and shape it into a round boule.
  6. Dust the shaped dough lightly with flour, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rest for about 1 hour.
  7. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) with your Dutch oven placed inside for at least 30 minutes.
  8. Remove the hot Dutch oven and drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the bottom.
  9. Transfer the rested dough into the hot Dutch oven, seam-side down, and sprinkle additional herbs and sea salt if desired.
  10. Cover the Dutch oven and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.
  11. Remove the loaf from the Dutch oven and cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 6gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 0.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 340mgPotassium: 60mgFiber: 1gIron: 1mg

Notes

Allowing the dough to ferment long enough will develop better flavor and texture. Preheat your Dutch oven thoroughly for best results.

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