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Easiest Ever Gluten-Free Bread: Soft, Crusty & Delicious

Rustic gluten-free bread loaf on a rack with butter.

The Easiest, Most Delicious Gluten-Free Bread You'll Ever Bake (Seriously!)

Hey friends! If you've ever uttered the words, "I miss real bread," as a gluten-free eater, then gather 'round because I'm about to drop some serious carb comfort on you. This isn't just *another* gluten-free bread recipe – it's *the* gluten-free bread recipe that has converted even the most skeptical of my loaf-loving pals. You see, for years, I struggled. We've all been there, the sad, crumbly bricks that resemble bread more in theory than in reality. But this? This is different. This recipe was born out of a deep desire for a decent sandwich and many, *many* experiments. It's ridiculously simple, uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, and churns out loaves that are beautifully textured, satisfyingly crusty, and honestly, better than some gluten-filled breads I've had! I'm genuinely excited to share it with you, my fellow gluten-free adventurers!

Let's Get Those Ingredients Ready!

Before we dive in, let's make sure we have everything we need. Don't worry, the list isn't intimidating, and I've included some helpful notes along the way:

  • 3 cups warm water (about 105-115°F – think lukewarm bathwater). Ensuring it's warm is crucial for activating the yeast!
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast – Fresh yeast is key here for a good rise. If your packet has been hanging around in the pantry for a while, might want to grab a fresh one.
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for the yeast to feed on!) – This helps activate the yeast and adds a touch of flavor to the bread and doesn't make it too sweet.
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar – This helps with the texture and is really important for a good rise you can go without but be warned your bread may have slightly less lift.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil - Extra Virgin olive oil is my preference, but any cooking oil will work.
  • 3 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum) – This is important! the xanthan gum is incredibly important for the texture so ensure the mix contains it or you can add it separately. I typically use Bob's Red Mill 1-to-1 but you use any brand you love.
  • 2 teaspoons salt – Don't skip the salt! It's so important for the flavor.

Time to Bake: Step-By-Step Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients lined up, let's get this bread party started:

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, pour the warm water. Sprinkle in the yeast and honey syrup. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy. This step is important! It shows that your yeast is alive and working its magic. The frothy look is exactly what you want.
  2. Add the Extras: Stir in the apple cider vinegar and olive oil. Now, add your GF flour and salt. Mix well with a spatula or wooden spoon until everything is combined. The dough will be quite wet, and that's exactly what we want for this recipe — don't try to make it like other doughs it'll look more batter-like.
  3. Let it Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 2 hours until doubled in size. I put mine in a preheated turned off oven. Try to not disturb it if not sure leave it for two.
  4. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place your favorite dutch oven inside to heat up as well. This makes the bread baking more evenly and creates an awesome crust, but if no dutch oven is available a casserole dish will work as well.
  5. Shape and Bake: Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air bubbles. Carefully tip the dough onto a piece of parchment paper; this makes it easier to move to the pot. Carefully place the parchment paper with the dough into heated dutch oven or baking dish. If your using a casserole dish, brush with some olive oil and place dough directly in it. Bake covered in the oven for 45 minutes,
  6. Uncover and Brown: After 45 minutes, remove the lid (or foil) and bake for another 15-20 minutes (or until golden brown) or until your bread sound hollow when tapped. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning
  7. Cool & Enjoy: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pot for 10 minutes before attempting to remove it. Place it on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and devouring. If you cut too soon your bread will be gummy. Patience is key here to get that perfect slice!

Tips & Tricks For Baking Awesome Gluten Free Bread

Now that we've got the recipe down, let's chat about making this loaf *your* own. Here are some tips to elevate your bread game:

  • Spice it Up: Add herbs or spices to your dough. A teaspoon of dried rosemary or thyme will add a gorgeous herby flavor or some garlic powder and Italian herbs is a wonderful upgrade.
  • Cheese Is Your Friend: A sprinkle of shredded cheese on top of the dough will create a tasty, golden crust that you'll love or even a few tablespoons whisked into the batter.
  • Go Seed Crazy: Add healthy seeds like sunflower, pumpkin, or flax seeds to the dough for extra texture and a nutrition boost. It all depends on your flavor preference.
  • Sweet Treat: For a sweeter loaf stir in 1/4 cup of dried cranberries or raisins with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.
  • Make it a Garlic bread: Cut then bread in length and brush with olive oil and crush garlic for a warm amazing garlic bread.
  • No Dutch Oven, No Problem: If you don't have a dutch oven, use a regular casserole dish or even a baking sheet will work but lower the heat to 375F for 55 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Storage: Keep in a bread bag for two days or freeze for longer storage.
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The Easiest Gluten-Free Bread

Prep time: 15 minutes

Rise Time: 1-2 hours

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes - 3 hours 15 minutes

Yields: 1 large loaf

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups warm water (105-115°F)
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum)
  • 2 teaspoons salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and honey. Set aside for 5-10 minutes, until frothy.
  2. Stir in apple cider vinegar and olive oil.
  3. Add flour and salt. Mix until just combined.
  4. Cover and let rise for 1-2 hours.
  5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) with a dutch oven inside if possible.
  6. Gently punch down dough, place on parchment paper, then inside a heated baking pan.
  7. Bake covered for 45 minutes.
  8. Remove cover and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or golden brown.
  9. Cool for 10 minutes in pot, then on a wire rack completely before slicing.

Product Recommendations

To make your bread baking experience even better, here are a few things that might come in handy:

  • Dough Scraper: A good dough scraper is crucial for handling the wet dough without making a mess. It'll help you get the dough out of the bowl quickly.
  • Digital Kitchen Thermometer: Using a digital kitchen thermometer ensures the water you use for the yeast activation is at the perfect temperature. This is a small investment to ensure perfect results every time.
  • Parchment Paper: Non-stick parchment paper is a must for this recipe! It makes removing the baked bread a breeze.

You've got this recipe! Seriously, it's that easy and the results are mind blowing. This gorgeous loaf of gluten-free goodness is just waiting for you to create. Whether it's slathered with avocado, stacked high with your favorite toppings, or enjoyed with a simple slather of butter, I know you're going to love it. So get out your mixing bowls and get baking! And please let me know what you think I truly love to hear from all of you!

Rustic gluten-free bread loaf on a rack with butter.

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