Hard Crust Bread Recipe

Experience the joy of baking with this delightful hard crust bread recipe, perfect for those who appreciate a crisp, golden exterior and a soft, fluffy interior.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preparation of Yeast Mix:
   • Heat 2 cups of water to 110°F (43°C) – it should be warm to the touch but not boiling.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir until dissolved and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes.
2. Mixing the Dough:
   • Add 2 eggs to the yeast mixture and mix well.
   • In a separate bowl, mix bread flour and salt.
   • Gradually add the flour mixture to the yeast mixture, using a wooden spoon or the dough hook of a mixer. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Kneading the Dough:
   • Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and knead for approximately 8-10 minutes until it becomes soft and smooth. If using a stand mixer, beat on medium speed for 5-7 minutes.
   • Add more flour if necessary to prevent sticking.
4. First Proof:
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and leave to rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in volume.
5. Shaping the Rolls:
   • Punch down the dough to remove air. Divide it into 12 equal parts.
   • Form each piece into a ball by pulling the edges towards the center and pinching them together. Then roll the dough on the counter into a smooth ball.
   • Place the rolls on baking paper, leaving space between each roll.
6. Second Proof:
   • Cover the rolls with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until slightly risen.
7. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).
8. Prepare for Baking:
   • Beat the egg yolk with a tablespoon of water in a small bowl.
   • Brush the top of each roll with the egg yolk mixture for a beautiful finish.
9. Baking the Rolls:
   • Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and they sound hollow when tapped.
   • Remove from the oven and let cool on a rack.

Enjoy your homemade hard crust bread rolls! Please share this recipe with your family and friends for more delicious baking adventures. Thank you and happy baking! 🍞✨

Try it now! It’s truly worth the effort.