Rustic Artisan Bread and Cheese

Name: Rustic Artisan Bread and Cheese
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast; 1 1/2 cups warm water; Assorted cheeses (e.g., Brie, Cheddar, Gouda); Fresh herbs (optional); Olive oil for dipping

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

I love making Rustic Artisan Bread and Cheese because it combines the warmth of freshly baked bread with the rich, creamy texture of cheese. This recipe is a great way to impress guests or enjoy a cozy night in. The smell of the bread baking in the oven fills the house, creating an inviting atmosphere that brings everyone to the kitchen. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, I can create a beautiful rustic loaf that pairs perfectly with my favorite cheeses. It’s truly a delightful experience that never fails!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-13T15:01:30.327Z

When I first attempted making Rustic Artisan Bread, I was surprised by how rewarding the process was. Kneading the dough by hand is not just therapeutic; it also helps develop the gluten, which is essential for achieving that beautiful crust. I found that letting the dough rise for a longer period enriches the flavor and texture, making it more enjoyable.

A tip I swear by is to use a hot Dutch oven for baking. It creates steam in the oven, resulting in a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside beautifully soft. Trust me, this method elevates the bread like nothing else!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The incredible aroma of bread baking will fill your home.
Stunning crust with a soft, chewy interior.
Pairs beautifully with a range of cheeses and spreads.

      

Understanding the Bread-Making Process

The process of making Rustic Artisan Bread hinges on the fermentation of the dough, which is essential for developing the flavor and texture. The long rising time of 12 to 18 hours is a crucial step; it allows the yeast to slowly work its magic, resulting in a superior taste and a more pronounced gluten structure. During this time, you'll notice the surface of the dough becoming bubbly and airy, a sign that the yeast is active and thriving.

When shaping the dough after the first rise, be gentle. Overworking the dough can cause it to lose the air bubbles formed during fermentation. Shape it just enough to encourage a tight surface while maintaining its airy interior. This will contribute to the desirable crust and chewy texture of the finished bread. A light touch is key here!

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Using high-quality all-purpose flour is vital for achieving the best texture in your bread. Bread flour, which has a higher protein content, can also be used for an even chewier result. If you're gluten-sensitive, gluten-free flour blends can be substituted, though the texture and rise will differ slightly. It's important to select an instant yeast that's fresh, as expired yeast can lead to disappointing rises and dense bread instead of the ideal airy loaf.

For the cheeses, I recommend a mix of soft and hard varieties like Brie and aged Cheddar. Their melting characteristics and flavor profiles complement the rustic bread beautifully. Don't hesitate to experiment with local artisan cheeses, which can enhance your bread and cheese pairing experience by adding unique flavors to the mix.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your Rustic Artisan Bread and Cheese.

Ingredients for Bread

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water

Ingredients for Serving

Assorted cheeses (e.g., Brie, Cheddar, Gouda)
Fresh herbs (optional)
Olive oil for dipping

Once you have your ingredients ready, you can start the process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your rustic masterpiece.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast. Slowly pour in the warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms. You may need to adjust the water or flour slightly to achieve the right consistency.

First Rise

Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise for about 12 to 18 hours at room temperature. This allows the flavors to develop and the dough to become bubbly.

Shape the Dough

After the first rise, sprinkle some flour on a clean surface and turn the dough out. Gently shape it into a ball without overworking it and let it rest for another 30 minutes.

Preheat Oven

While the dough is resting, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a Dutch oven with its lid into the oven to heat up.

Bake the Bread

Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Place the shaped dough inside (you can use parchment paper for easier handling) and cover it with the lid. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Slice and serve with your selected cheeses and dipping oils.

Enjoy your freshly baked rustic bread with cheese!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding herbs or spices to the dough. Rosemary or garlic powder works wonders!

Serving Suggestions

When serving Rustic Artisan Bread, presentation can enhance the experience. Arrange slices in a basket lined with a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm, and serve with a selection of cheeses on a wooden board. Adding a drizzle of good olive oil and fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, can elevate the dish even further, making it visually appealing and enhancing the flavors.

Pairing this bread with a variety of spreads is also a delightful option. Consider serving it with a fig jam or honey, which can create a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Additionally, olives and pickles on the side will add a nice tang to complement the creaminess of the cheeses.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator after the first rise. This delayed fermentation develops even more complex flavors. Be mindful that refrigeration can slow the yeast activity, so aim to bake the bread within three days for the best results. Just let it come to room temperature and finish the shaping process before baking as directed.

If you have leftover bread, it's best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in a paper bag at room temperature for a couple of days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze it. To reheat, place the frozen bread directly in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to revive its crusty exterior.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but you may need to adjust the water amount as it absorbs more moisture.

→ How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The bread should be golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

→ Can I make this bread without a Dutch oven?

While a Dutch oven creates the best crust, you can bake it on a baking sheet, but the texture may slightly vary.

→ How should I store the leftover bread?

Store the bread in a paper bag at room temperature for a couple of days, or slice and freeze for longer storage.