These Crusty Mini Loaves are perfect for those who love freshly baked bread with a deliciously crispy crust and soft, airy interior. Whether you’re serving them with soups, stews, or simply enjoying them with a spread of butter, these mini loaves bring a rustic touch to any meal. Their petite size makes them ideal for individual servings, ensuring everyone gets their own perfectly crusty loaf. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating these delightful breads from scratch, filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of fresh bread. With just a few basic ingredients, you can have warm, homemade bread in no time!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for brushing)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is activated.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until a dough begins to form. If the dough is too dry, add a bit more water, a tablespoon at a time.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, but avoid adding too much.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Mini Loaves: Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide it into 4-6 equal portions, depending on the size you prefer for your mini loaves. Shape each portion into a small round or oval loaf.
- Second Rise: Place the mini loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a shallow baking dish on the bottom rack of the oven to create steam, which will help achieve a crusty exterior.
- Bake the Loaves: Just before placing the loaves in the oven, make a few shallow slashes on the top of each loaf with a sharp knife. This will help the bread expand while baking. Optionally, brush the tops with olive oil for a richer color and flavor. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the loaves are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the mini loaves from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful crunch and soft crumb of these crusty mini loaves!
These loaves are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days.
