Rustic Artisan Bread and Cheese

Name: Rustic Artisan Bread and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups warm water; 1 ½ teaspoons salt; ½ teaspoon instant yeast; Assorted cheeses (e.g., brie, cheddar, gouda); Olive oil for drizzling; Fresh herbs for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love the combination of warm, crusty bread and creamy cheese, and this Rustic Artisan Bread and Cheese recipe captures that harmony beautifully. The process of baking this artisan bread makes my kitchen fill with mouthwatering aromas while providing a sense of accomplishment. This recipe takes some time, but the result is entirely worth it—an inviting bread that pairs perfectly with a variety of cheeses. Whether it's for a cozy dinner or an elegant gathering, this is a perfect accompaniment that never fails to impress.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-13T12:07:30.823Z

Each time I bake this Rustic Artisan Bread, I am reminded of the wonderful moments shared around a table with loved ones. The crisp crust gives way to a soft, airy crumb that is just perfect for slathering on your favorite cheese. I often experiment with different cheeses, from sharp cheddar to creamy brie, and it’s always a delightful surprise.

The key to achieving that perfect texture is allowing the dough to rest adequately. I usually let the dough rise overnight in the fridge, which develops the flavor and makes the bread even easier to shape. Trust me, this step makes all the difference in the end!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect combination of crusty artisan bread and creamy cheese
A delightful baking experience that fills your home with warmth
Versatile enough to pair with various cheeses for endless flavor options

      

The Art of Dough Fermentation

The long fermentation period of this dough is what contributes to the unique flavor and texture of the bread. During the first rise, the yeast works slowly, allowing for the development of natural sugars that result in complex flavors. It's essential to cover the dough adequately to maintain warmth and humidity, which aids in proper yeast activity. If your kitchen is particularly cold, consider placing the bowl in a turned-off oven with the light on to create a warm environment.

Don't rush the first rise. Ideally, you want to let the dough sit until it has doubled in size and is covered with bubbles—this indicates proper fermentation has occurred. A well-fermented dough will yield a bread that has a chewy crust and an airy interior, which is the hallmark of artisan bread.

Mastering the Bake

Baking in a Dutch oven is a game changer for achieving the perfect crust. The steam created inside the covered pot helps set the crust quickly while allowing the bread to expand. Preheating the Dutch oven is crucial, as it mimics the results of a traditional steam-injected oven. Make sure to handle it with care; use oven mitts and add the dough quickly to maintain the heat.

When you bake, look for visual cues to ensure your bread is ready. The crust should be deep golden brown, and you can tap the bottom of the loaf to check for a hollow sound, indicating that it's fully baked. If you discover that the crust is browning too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature slightly to 425°F (220°C) after removing the lid.

Serving and Ingredient Variations

Pairing your Rustic Artisan Bread with an array of cheeses not only enhances its flavor but also elevates your dining experience. Soft cheeses like brie contrast beautifully with the bread's crust, while sharp cheddars add a nice bite. Experiment with adding honey or fig jam on the side for a sweet twist that complements both the cheese and the bread.

If you want to explore different flavor profiles, consider adding herbs or roasted garlic to the dough during the mixing phase. This will infuse the bread with extra flavor and make it a standout dish. For a gluten-free option, try using a blend of gluten-free all-purpose flour, but keep in mind that texture will vary.

Ingredients

For the Bread

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups warm water
1 ½ teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon instant yeast

For Serving

Assorted cheeses (e.g., brie, cheddar, gouda)
Olive oil for drizzling
Fresh herbs for garnish

Gather all ingredients and prepare to embark on a delicious bread-making journey!

Instructions

Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and instant yeast. Gradually add warm water to the mixture and stir using a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. The dough will be sticky, which is perfectly fine—avoid adding extra flour.

First Rise

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let the dough rise at room temperature for about 12 to 18 hours until it has doubled in size and is bubbly.

Shape the Dough

After the first rise, lightly flour a clean work surface. Gently turn the dough out onto the surface and fold it over itself a few times to shape it into a ball. Place it seam side down on a floured piece of parchment paper.

Second Rise

Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 1 to 2 hours.

Preheat the Oven

During the last 30 minutes of the second rise, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside to heat up.

Bake the Bread

Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Lift the parchment paper with the dough and place it into the Dutch oven. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.

Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, transfer the bread to a wire rack and let it cool completely before slicing. Serve with your favorite cheeses and enjoy!

Enjoy this delightful rustic bread paired with your choice of cheeses!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor of the bread, consider adding herbs or spices to the flour mixture. Additionally, ensuring your water is the right temperature helps activate the yeast effectively.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Rustic Artisan Bread can be a superb make-ahead option for gatherings. Once the dough has completed its first rise, you can refrigerate it for up to 3 days, shaping and allowing it to rise again just before baking. This not only saves time on the day of your event but also enhances the bread's flavor as it continues to ferment slowly in the fridge.

If you have leftover bread, store it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it fresh longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw it at room temperature and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore its crusty texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bread does not rise as expected, it could be due to the yeast not being active. Always check the expiration date of your instant yeast and consider proofing it in warm water with a little sugar before use. If your dough is excessively sticky, it might be due to the moisture content; lightly flour your hands while handling it rather than adding too much flour to the dough itself.

Another common issue is a dense loaf, which can happen if the dough is overworked or not given enough time to rise. Be gentle when shaping the dough and make sure to monitor the rise times closely. Adjusting your room temperature or the timing of your rises based on your environment can significantly impact the final result.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but you might need to adjust the water content since whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

→ How do I store leftover bread?

Once cooled, store the bread wrapped in a cloth and then in a plastic bag at room temperature for a few days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it.

→ What types of cheese go best with this bread?

This bread pairs beautifully with a variety of cheeses, including brie, gouda, sharp cheddar, and even fresh mozzarella.

→ Can I add herbs to the dough?

Absolutely! Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough can enhance the flavor and give it a delightful aroma.