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Rustic Rosemary Artisan Bread Recipe

admin 3 min read

Rosemary Artisan Bread (Overnight No-Knead Recipe)

Fragrant, crusty, and wonderfully rustic, rosemary artisan bread is an easy homemade loaf that’s ideal for dipping in olive oil, serving with soup, or enjoying warm with butter.

Rustic Rosemary Artisan Bread Recipe

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus extra sprigs for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (use some in the dough and the rest for drizzling/brushing)
  • Coarse sea salt, for finishing

Step-by-Step Instructions

1) Mix the dough

  1. In a large bowl, stir together the flour, salt, sugar, instant yeast, and chopped rosemary.
  2. Slowly pour in the warm water, mixing until a sticky, shaggy dough forms.

2) Let it rise overnight

  • Cover the bowl (plastic wrap works well) and leave the dough to rise at room temperature for 8–12 hours. An overnight rise gives the best flavor and texture.

3) Shape the loaf

  1. Lightly flour your hands and a clean work surface.
  2. Tip the dough out and gently form it into a round. Avoid heavy handling—minimal shaping helps keep the crumb airy.

4) Preheat the oven and pan

  • Place a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven inside your oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C).

5) Season and bake

  1. Carefully transfer the dough to the hot skillet/Dutch oven.
  2. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle coarse sea salt and add extra rosemary sprigs on top.
  3. Cover with a lid (or foil if using a skillet) and bake for 30 minutes.
  4. Uncover and continue baking for 10–15 minutes, until the crust turns deep golden brown.

6) Cool and serve

  • Let the bread rest for a short time before slicing so the texture sets properly. Serve with olive oil, butter, or your favorite spreads.

Flavor Variations to Try

  • Different herbs: Replace rosemary with thyme, basil, or oregano.
  • Cheesy rosemary bread: Fold in shredded Parmesan or cheddar.
  • Olives or sun-dried tomatoes: Add chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for extra bite and richness.
  • Garlic version: Mix in minced garlic or roasted garlic for a bold, savory loaf.
  • Whole wheat option: Swap some (or all) of the flour for whole wheat flour for a heartier crumb.
  • Seeds and crunch: Stir in walnuts, sesame seeds, or sunflower seeds.
  • Slightly sweet loaf: Add a little honey or extra sugar, plus dried fruit like cranberries or apricots.

Tips for Better Rosemary Artisan Bread

  • Choose fresh rosemary: Fresh herbs deliver the strongest aroma and cleanest flavor.
  • Build a good rise: Let the dough rise until it looks expanded and bubbly—time matters more than the clock.
  • Preheat thoroughly: A fully heated pan helps create a crisp, bakery-style crust.
  • Create steam for crust: If you’re not using a lidded Dutch oven, you can place a pan of water in the oven to boost steam.
  • Cool before slicing: Waiting helps prevent a gummy interior and keeps slices neat.
  • Customize confidently: Herbs, spices, cheese, and mix-ins are easy ways to make the loaf your own.

How to Store Rosemary Artisan Bread

  • Cool completely first: Let the loaf cool on a rack to avoid trapped moisture.
  • Wrap to stay fresh: Use plastic wrap or foil to slow drying.
  • Keep at room temperature: Store in a cool, dry place if you’ll eat it within a few days.
  • Freeze for later: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat to refresh: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to revive the crust and aroma.

Enjoy this hearty rosemary bread as a simple snack, a side for soups and salads, or a flavorful base for sandwiches and toast.