If you've never made homemade bread in a Dutch oven, now is the time! This is a quick and easy artisan bread recipe that is adaptable and surprisingly easy to make, even for inexperienced bakers.
In a mixing bowl, combine 1½ cup flour, yeast, sugar and salt.
In a small saucepan on your stovetop, warm milk and butter just enough to melt the butter, but not to a boil so that it doesn't kill the yeast.
Mix into flour mixture and add remaining flour until smooth.
Using a dough hook (or your hands) knead dough for 4-5 minutes.
Lightly coat baking dish or cocotte with olive oil. Place dough ball in cocotte and cover with a light towel. Place in oven for 1 hour, turning the heat off.
Remove and preheat oven to 350℉. Punch dough down, create a new ball and brush with olive oil (and optional sea salt and rosemary).
Bake 35 minutes.
Video
Notes
Variations
Olive Oil - Brush olive oil on top for a hint of amazing flavor.
Herbs - Fresh or dried rosemary, oregano or thyme. Add to the dough, on top just after brushing with olive oil or both!
Cheese - Aged cheeses work well. Consider asiago, parmesan, gruyere or sharp cheddar.
Sun Dried Tomatoes - Another delicious addition to this delightful bread.