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Hard crust bread recipe
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### 👩🍳 How to Make Hard Crust Bread
#### 1. **Activate the Yeast**
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy and bubbly — this means the yeast is active and ready to work.
#### 2. **Mix the Dough**
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and stir until a sticky dough forms.
#### 3. **Knead the Dough**
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
#### 4. **First Rise**
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.
#### 5. **Shape and Second Rise**
Punch down the dough gently, shape it into a round or oval loaf, and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover again and let rise for another 45 minutes.
#### 6. **Prepare to Bake**
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack to create steam — this helps form that coveted crispy crust.
#### 7. **Score and Bake**
Using a sharp knife, score the top of the loaf with a few slashes. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the crust is deep golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped underneath.
#### 8. **Cool Before Slicing**
Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing — this helps set the crumb and keeps the crust crunchy.
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### 🍞 Tips for the Perfect Hard Crust Bread
* **Steam is key** — don’t skip adding water to the oven for a crunchy crust.
* Use a baking stone if you have one for even heat distribution.
* Experiment with adding herbs, olives, or seeds for extra flavor.
* Store bread in a paper bag to maintain crustiness — avoid plastic bags which soften the crust.
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### 🧡 Why You’ll Love Baking This Bread
* Homemade bread with a bakery-worthy crust
* Simple ingredients you probably already have
* The joy of fresh bread any time you want
* Perfect companion to soups, salads, and meals
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### 🍽️ Final Thought
This **Hard Crust Bread Recipe** brings the charm of rustic artisan baking right to your kitchen. Once you experience that crackling crust and soft interior, store-bought bread just won’t compare. Get your flour ready, and let’s bake a loaf that’s sure to impress family and friends!
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Would you like a no-knead version or tips for gluten-free baking? Just ask!
