Artisan Rustic Cob Loaf with a Crunchy Crust Recipe

A delicious and hearty cob loaf with a perfectly crunchy crust and soft inner crumb.

The Artisan Rustic Cob Loaf is a traditional bread, known for its unique round shape and perfectly crunchy crust. This loaf is a nod to the old-world baking craft, where time and patience create the perfect bread experience. Whether enjoyed fresh with butter or paired with soups and stews, the cob loaf is a versatile bread that excels in both flavor and texture.

This recipe takes a bit of time and patience, but the rewards are well worth it. By following this detailed guide, you'll create a beautiful artisan loaf that looks and tastes like it came from a professional bakery. Let’s dive into the world of traditional baking and bring this classic bread to life in your kitchen!

Ingredients

• 500g strong white bread flour
• 10g salt
• 7g fast-action dried yeast
• 350ml lukewarm water
• Olive oil, for greasing
• Extra flour, for dusting

Nutrition

Calories: ~200 calories per serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients and make sure your work surface is clean. You'll need 500g of strong white bread flour, 10g of salt, 7g of fast-action dried yeast, and 350ml of lukewarm water.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Mix well to distribute the salt evenly through the flour.
3. Activate the Yeast: In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together.
5. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour; if it's too dry, add a little water.
6. First Rise: Lightly oil a large bowl with olive oil and place the dough inside. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
7. Shape the Loaf: After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf. Place the shaped loaf onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise for an additional 1 hour or until doubled in size.
9. Preheat the Oven: While the loaf is undergoing its second rise, preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F). Place a baking tray on the bottom shelf of the oven and fill it with water to create steam. This will help in forming a crunchy crust.
10. Score the Loaf: Using a sharp knife or a baker's lame, make a few slashes on the top of the loaf. This allows the bread to expand properly while baking.
11. Bake the Loaf: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is deep golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
12. Cool the Bread: Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Allowing the bread to cool will improve its texture and make it easier to slice.

Making an artisan rustic cob loaf with a crunchy crust is not just about following a recipe; it’s about the journey of creating something traditional and wholesome. The smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your home is one of the most comforting and satisfying experiences. Remember, the key to this beautiful loaf is patience, allowing the dough to rise properly, and not rushing the baking process.

To ensure you get the best results, here are a few tips:

• Use room temperature ingredients to ensure better yeast activation.
• Be gentle when handling the dough after the first rise to retain the air pockets, which contribute to a lighter crumb.
• If you don’t have a warm enough place for proofing, you can place the dough in an oven with just the light on to create a warm environment.

Enjoy this bread fresh with some butter, or let it accompany a hearty soup or stew. The rustic cob loaf is incredibly versatile and can also be used for making sandwiches or simply enjoyed as it is. Once you master this recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought bread! Happy baking!