How to Make Rustic Bread: A Simple Recipe

There’s something truly special about baking bread from scratch. The aroma that fills your kitchen, the satisfaction of watching dough transform into a golden-brown loaf, and the joy of sharing homemade bread with loved ones—it’s an experience like no other. Today, I’m excited to share with you my simple recipe for rustic bread that’s perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner solution or just want to cozy up with a warm loaf, this recipe delivers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for quick family dinners or as a side for your favorite soups
• Easy to make with just 5 ingredients
• No advanced baking skills required—great for beginners
• Can be ready in about 2 hours from start to finish
• Creates a deliciously crusty exterior with a soft interior
• Customizable for different serving preferences

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this rustic bread recipe:

• 3 cups warm water
• 2 ¼ tsp (1 pkg) active dry yeast
• 1 Tbsp sugar
• 6 cups (750 g) flour
• 3 tsp salt

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the steps to make this delicious rustic bread:

1. Mix water, yeast, and sugar in a large mixing bowl or stand mixer. Let sit for about 10 minutes until bubbly.
2. Add flour and salt. Mix until combined into a soft dough. (The dough should be slightly sticky to the touch, but not so that much comes off on your hands. If it’s too sticky to handle, add ¼ cup flour at a time.)
3. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and kitchen towel. Let rise for 1-3 hours, if possible! I’ve run out of time before and let it rise for only 30-60 mins and it still works, but the longer, the better!
4. Preheat oven to 450°F and put a pizza stone or flipped-over cookie sheet in the oven to heat up.
5. Fill a baking dish with 2 inches of water and place on the bottom rack to create steam for an extra crispy crust.
6. Sprinkle flour on the counter, turn out the dough, fold on itself, divide in half and form it into 2 balls. Don’t knead or handle it more than you need to. Add a little flour if it’s too sticky.
7. Cut an X shape on the top of the balls with a sharp knife.
8. Place on a lightly floured pan, then place on top of the hot pizza stone or cookie sheet.
9. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some tips to ensure your rustic bread turns out perfectly every time:

• Use a pizza stone or a flipped-over cookie sheet in the oven to help create a crispy crust.
• Add water to the oven to create steam, which helps achieve that perfect crust.
• Don’t overwork the dough—this will make the bread tough.
• Let the dough rise for as long as you can—it makes a big difference in the texture and flavor.

How to Serve

This rustic bread is incredibly versatile and can be served in so many ways:

• Slice it up and serve with your favorite soup or stew.
• Use it to make sandwiches or toast.
• Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt for a simple snack.
• Pair it with a hearty salad or as a side for your favorite Big Mac Wraps or Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole.

Make Ahead and Storage

Here’s how to store and make ahead:

• The dough can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Once baked, store the bread at room temperature in a paper bag or wrapped in a clean towel for up to 3 days.
• Freeze the bread for up to 2 months—simply thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it.

And there you have it—my simple recipe for rustic bread that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a busy mom looking for quick family dinners or just someone who loves the comfort of homemade bread, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy baking!