Easy Gluten-Free Artisan Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a simple, foolproof gluten-free bread recipe, this is the one. It combines easy-to-find ingredients, a minimal preparation process, and the magic of a Dutch oven to create a beautifully rustic loaf. Whether you’re gluten intolerant or just exploring gluten-free baking, you’ll appreciate how effortless and rewarding this recipe is. The crust is golden and crispy, while the interior is airy and soft – a perfect balance. Plus, you don’t need a bread machine or complicated techniques to achieve amazing results.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour

• 1 packet active dry yeast

• 1 tablespoon xanthan gum (Tip: If you are using a flour blend WITH xanthan gum, only add 2 teaspoons instead of 1 Tbsp.)

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder

• 2 eggs

• 1 ½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar

• 2 cups warm water

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the warm water, yeast, and sugar until dissolved. Set aside for about 10 minutes, allowing the yeast to activate.

2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking powder, xanthan gum, vinegar, eggs, and the yeasted water. Stir everything together with a wooden spoon, or feel free to use your hands if you prefer.

3. Cover the dough and let it rest on your counter for about 50 minutes. This dough won’t double in size like typical bread dough.

4. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and place your Dutch oven inside while it preheats.

5. Lay a piece of parchment paper on your counter and dust it lightly with gluten-free flour. Carefully scrape the dough out of the bowl and form it into a ball using the parchment paper.

6. Once the dough is shaped, slice a couple of small cuts on the top of your dough for a rustic look.

7. Place the dough (still on the parchment paper) into the preheated Dutch oven and bake covered for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, uncover the pot and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

8. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10 slices

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Rest time: 50 minutes

• Bake time: 50 minutes (45 minutes covered, 5 minutes uncovered)

Variations

• Herb-infused Bread: Add 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or oregano) to the dough for an extra burst of flavor.

• Cheesy Bread: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese into the dough before shaping it. Parmesan or cheddar work well for this variation.

• Sweetened Bread: Add 2 tablespoons of honey and a teaspoon of cinnamon to make a slightly sweeter bread that’s perfect for breakfast or pairing with fruit.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Once cooled, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a zip-top bag. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.

• Reheating: To refresh the bread, wrap it in foil and heat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different gluten-free flour blends, but be sure to check if your blend already contains xanthan gum or guar gum. If it does, you’ll need to adjust the amount of xanthan gum in the recipe.

2. Do I need a Dutch oven to bake this bread?

A Dutch oven helps create a crisp crust, but if you don’t have one, you can use a regular baking sheet. Just place the bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover it with aluminum foil during baking to keep the moisture in.

3. Can I make this bread dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the eggs and substitute them with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water for each egg). You can also use dairy-free vinegar if needed.

4. How can I make this bread more fluffy?

For a fluffier texture, make sure to allow the dough to rest properly before baking. Additionally, adding an extra teaspoon of baking powder may help.

5. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast in place of active dry yeast. There’s no need to activate instant yeast in warm water, so just mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

6. How do I know if my yeast is active?

When mixed with warm water and sugar, active dry yeast should begin to foam and bubble within 10 minutes. If it doesn’t, the yeast may be expired and you should try a fresh packet.

7. Can I add nuts or seeds to the dough?

Yes, feel free to add a handful of nuts or seeds like sunflower, pumpkin, or walnuts for added texture and flavor.

8. How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The bread should have a golden-brown crust and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should read around 200°F (93°C).

9. Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?

This recipe does not require a bread machine. However, if you prefer to use one, follow your machine’s instructions for gluten-free bread, but keep in mind the dough consistency may differ.

10. How can I get a more crispy crust?

If you want a crunchier crust, leave the lid off the Dutch oven for the last 5 minutes of baking, or increase the oven temperature to 475°F during the final 5 minutes.

Conclusion

This easy gluten-free artisan bread is the perfect solution for anyone craving fresh, homemade bread without the gluten. With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and a perfect result every time, it’s an ideal recipe for beginners and seasoned gluten-free bakers alike. Enjoy the crusty exterior and soft, airy interior – it’s a delicious and satisfying addition to any meal.