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Brioche – The Buttery, Eggy Bread That’s Worth It
This rich, buttery brioche bread is soft, airy, and perfect for everything from French toast to sandwiches. With just the right balance of eggs and butter, this recipe delivers a golden, bakery-quality loaf every time.
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Sourdough for the Rest of Us: (FREE Download!)
“Sourdough baking doesn’t have to be complicated. Sourdough for the Rest of Us is the ultimate free guide for beginners and experienced bakers alike. No perfection required—just great bread. Download your copy today! https://bit.ly/3XjRKP3”
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Blackberry Orange Galette
This Blackberry Orange Galette is as easy as it gets—flaky crust, juicy blackberries, and a hit of citrus to brighten everything up. I used oranges and a little lime, but you can go with whatever citrus you’ve got. A sprinkle of turbinado sugar gives the crust that perfect crunch. Bake…
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How to Tell When Bread is Proofed
Wondering if your dough is ready? Use the poke test and simple tricks to know exactly when to bake. No more guesswork—just great bread!
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My Crusty White Bread – The Loaf That Started It All
Looking for the perfect crusty bread recipe? This is the one. With a golden crust, soft interior, and simple method, this bread is perfect for any home baker.
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Mastering the Art of Baguette Baking with Donna May
“Light, airy, and full of flavor—Donna May’s baguettes, fresh out of the oven and ready for a generous slather of butter! 🥖 Hello, bakers! Today, we’re excited to spotlight one of our community’s founding members and expert bakers, Donna May. Donna has been instrumental in guiding many of us through the…
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Understanding Flour Protein Content for Better Baking 🍞
Learn how different flour types impact your baking results by understanding protein content. This guide breaks down the best flour choices for bread, cakes, and pastries.
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🧅🥖 Onion and Poppy Seed Pletzel – Crispy, Savory, and Easy to Bake!
This Onion and Poppy Seed Pletzel recipe combines a crispy, golden crust with sweet caramelized onions and nutty poppy seeds. Brought to us by Cheryl Odden, adapted from Sandhya Ramakrishnan of My Cooking Journey, this recipe is perfect for breakfast, snacking, or serving with cream cheese!
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Spelt Honey Sourdough 🍯🍞
Master the art of spelt sourdough bread with this step-by-step recipe. Packed with whole grain goodness, this loaf is nutritious, flavorful, and perfect for everyday baking.
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Multigrain Sourdough Bread
Master the art of artisan sourdough bread with this step-by-step recipe. From fermentation to scoring, this guide will help you achieve a perfect loaf every time.
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From Passion to Profit: A Baker’s Guide to Market Success 🥖
Thinking about selling your homemade bread at the farmers’ market? Many home bakers want to take that step but aren’t sure where to start. In this post, I break down key strategies—how to price your bread, set up an inviting booth, and confidently engage customers. Whether you’re just testing the…
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Rosemary Garlic and Parmesan Loaf
This Rosemary Garlic Parmesan Bread is packed with bold, savory flavors, featuring fresh rosemary, roasted garlic, and Parmesan cheese baked into a golden, airy loaf. With a crisp crust and an irresistible aroma, this artisan bread is perfect for markets, gatherings, or simply enjoying at home. Try it today and…
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The Versatile Market Mainstay
Selling homemade bread at a farmers’ market is more than just displaying loaves—it’s about creating an experience that draws customers in. Learn how to set up a welcoming stall, engage buyers, and make your bread irresistible.
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Homemade Bagel Recipe
These homemade bagels are chewy, golden brown, and made with a slow-rise dough for the best flavor. Boiled and baked to perfection, they’re easy to make at home!
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Savory Irish Soda Bread
This cheddar herb soda bread recipe is the ultimate no-yeast bread—quick, easy, and packed with rich flavor. With melted cheese, fresh herbs, and a crisp crust, it’s perfect for pairing with hearty meals or enjoying on its own.
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Henry’s Whole Wheat Sandwich Bread
This soft whole wheat sandwich bread recipe delivers a light, airy crumb and a golden crust, making it perfect for sandwiches or toast. Learn how to bake a nutritious, flavorful loaf with step-by-step guidance and pro tips for success.
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Henry’s Foolproof Sourdough Loaf
Bake a perfect sourdough loaf with Henry’s Foolproof Sourdough Recipe—a 75% hydration, cold-proofed method designed for consistency and great flavor. With a crisp crust, airy crumb, and step-by-step instructions, this recipe is ideal for both beginners and seasoned bakers looking to refine their sourdough skills.
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#FreshStart Challenge: Sweet Rolls with Stevia
Looking for a healthier twist on your favorite sweet rolls? Try this sugar-free recipe using stevia! These fluffy, golden brown rolls are soft, tender, and made with simple ingredients like bread flour, yeast, and a touch of honey to help the yeast rise. Perfect for anyone looking to bake indulgent…
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🍑🍎 Blueberry Peach Apple Bread 🍞
“Have you ever baked a loaf so full of fruit it practically melts in your mouth? This Blueberry Peach Apple Bread is a showstopper. With juicy peaches, fresh blueberries, and crisp apples, it’s perfectly balanced and packed with flavor. Best of all, you don’t need water or milk—the applesauce and…
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Understanding Yeast: The Tiny But Mighty Bread Builder 🔬
“Learn all about yeast—the essential ingredient for perfectly risen bread. Discover its types, uses, and tips to improve your baking with this detailed guide.”
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Why Your Refrigerator Is Your Secret Weapon for Better Bread 🍞
“Unlock the secrets of professional-quality bread at home using your refrigerator! Cold proofing (or cold fermentation) is a game-changing technique that not only fits your busy schedule but also creates deeper flavors, better texture, and that perfect artisan crust. Learn why professional bakers swear by this method and how your…
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North Dakota Caramel Rolls
“Discover the secrets to making authentic North Dakota Caramel Rolls, a beloved Northern Plains breakfast tradition. These soft, pillowy rolls feature a perfectly smooth caramel sauce and are easier to make than you might think. Learn the crucial tips for preventing curdled caramel and achieving that signature golden glaze that…
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How to Get Dough to Rise in a Cold Home 🥶🍞
“Struggling to get dough to rise in the winter? ❄️ Learn simple, effective techniques to help yeasted and sourdough dough (and starters!) ferment properly in colder kitchens. From DIY proofing tips to tools that work, this guide has everything you need to bake perfect bread.”
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Sourdough Baguettes
“Learn how to bake stunning sourdough baguettes with a crisp crust and an airy crumb. Perfect for sandwiches or as a standalone treat, these baguettes are a must-try for bread enthusiasts! #SourdoughBaguettes #HomeBaking”
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Ciabatta Bread Recipe
“Looking for the perfect bread to kick off your next baking project? 🍞 Try this homemade ciabatta with its golden crust and airy crumb—perfect for sandwiches or dipping into olive oil. #CiabattaLove #HomeBaking”
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Vietnamese Bánh Mì
“Learn how to make authentic Vietnamese-style baguettes (bánh mì) at home with this easy recipe. Discover the history behind this iconic French-Vietnamese fusion bread and get tips for perfecting the crispy crust and airy crumb. Perfect for sandwiches filled with fresh, flavorful ingredients!”
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Double Cinnamon Rolls with a Festive Beetroot Twist
These cinnamon rolls are both a feast for the eyes and the taste buds! I used a double-dough technique with a stunning beetroot layer to give them that vibrant holiday look. Here’s how I made them: The Dough The Beetroot Tip Layering Shaping The Result Soft, fluffy, and filled with…
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The Story Behind My Challah ✨🍞
“Discover the beauty and tradition of this round challah bread, braided with black sesame seeds, white sesame seeds, and plain dough. Perfect for special occasions, this recipe symbolizes unity, the unending cycle of life, and the joy of baking.”
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🎄 Warm Up Your Winter with Apple Cinnamon Loaf
Winter is here, and there’s nothing like the smell of warm, spiced bread to cozy up your kitchen. This Apple Cinnamon Loaf combines sweet apples, warm spices, and a touch of love to create a perfect treat for the season. Bonus: This recipe is straight from my upcoming cookbook, Baking…
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Classic Christmas Panettone
When I think of Christmas, I think of the smell of sweet, buttery bread wafting through the house. Panettone has always been more than just a dessert—it’s a way to bring people together. This Italian holiday classic has a light, airy crumb. It also has bursts of dried fruit. It…
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Cinnamon-Sugar Kuchen
This cinnamon-sugar kuchen is inspired by traditional German baking and has been reimagined for our December challenge. It’s the perfect blend of tender cake, swirled with cinnamon sugar, and topped with buttery goodness. Whether for gifting or enjoying with friends, this kuchen will bring holiday warmth to your table.
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Resilience: A Story of Sourdough and Hushpuppies
Discover the rich history of Southern staples like hushpuppies and sourdough bread in this heartfelt story of resilience and resourcefulness. Learn how these humble recipes carry tales of survival, creativity, and cultural significance from the past into our kitchens today.
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Southern Cornbread Dressing 🥘
“Bring the warmth of the holidays to your table with this Southern cornbread dressing, topped with rich, savory gravy. Perfectly moist and packed with flavor, it’s the ultimate side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas feasts.”
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Classic Bread Stuffing
“This Classic Bread Stuffing is a Thanksgiving essential, blending toasted bread cubes, sautéed celery and onion, and a medley of herbs for a perfectly moist and flavorful side. Whether baked inside the turkey or in a casserole dish, this savory dish brings tradition and warmth to your holiday table.”
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Thanksgiving Debate: Dressing vs. Stuffing, and the Tradition of the Cousin Walk
“Dressing or stuffing? 🦃 This Thanksgiving, we’re diving into the age-old debate, sharing must-try recipes, and exploring the tradition of the Cousin Walk. 🍂🍞 Find out what makes each dish unique and how to make them shine on your holiday table. #ThanksgivingFeast #DressingVsStuffing #HolidayTraditions”
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A Thanksgiving Lifesaver
“Feeling overwhelmed with Thanksgiving prep? Wondering how to keep your rolls and cinnamon rolls fresh without last-minute stress? Our guide shows you how to freeze them after shaping, so you can bake perfect, fresh rolls on the big day without the chaos. Simplify your holiday baking and enjoy more time…
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Baking at Altitude: Mastering Bread at Any Elevation
“Baking bread at altitude presents unique challenges due to lower air pressure, faster rising times, and drier dough. Discover practical tips for adjusting your bread recipes to achieve perfect results, whether you’re baking in the mountains or at sea level.”
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So, I Ended Up with 21 Bananas…
By Henry Hunter So, here’s how today’s banana bread adventure started. I was in the convenience store this morning, and there’s this guy swapping out bananas, taking away the ripe ones and putting out fresh ones. As he’s heading out the door, I hold it for him and ask, “What…
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Exclusive Blog Subscriber Challenge!
Blog Subscriber Challenge: Win a Barlow & Co. Bottle Whisk! Calling all baking enthusiasts! We’re thrilled to launch our Blog Subscriber Challenge with a chance to win a handcrafted Bottle Whisk from Barlow & Co. This tool is a game-changer for sourdough lovers, designed to mix starters perfectly with ease…
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Henry’s Crusty French Bread
“Learn how to make Henry’s Crusty French Bread with a crispy crust and airy crumb. Perfect for soup season, this easy recipe requires just flour, water, salt, and yeast. Ready in 3 hours with 120 calories per slice.”
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Herb-Infused Focaccia
“Herb-infused focaccia slices, perfect for dipping in olive oil or serving as a side with your favorite meal. The airy crumb and crispy edges make this a delicious treat.”
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Cranberry Walnut Sourdough Loaf
By Henry Hunter By Henry Hunter. A Bit About This Bread I love sharing this recipe because it’s a perfect next step for bakers ready to try something new. The tangy sourdough, crunchy walnuts, and sweet-tart cranberries create something really special. Don’t worry if you’re just getting into sourdough –…
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Dutch Oven vs. Baking Shell
“Curious about how the Brød & Taylor Baking Shell compares to a traditional Dutch oven for sourdough baking? In this post, I put both to the test using my Foolproof Sourdough Recipe, exploring differences in crust, oven spring, and ease of use. Find out which tool might be the new…
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Get Ready: Tasty Bread Baking Ideas for the Holidays
Holiday Bread: Delicious Ideas You Need to Try!
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How to Store Your Bread Right
I didn’t pick MODKitchn out of a hat. We’ve been partners for well over a year now, and they’ve earned their spot on my short list of brands I genuinely recommend to our bakers. These bags keep your bread fresh on the counter, go straight into the freezer when you…
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Yeasted Cheddar & Basil Loaf
This cheddar basil loaf was my secret weapon. It was easy to make and filled the air with an irresistible aroma.
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“Why Measuring Flour with a Digital Scale Beats Measuring by Cups”
Precision is the key to better baking. If your bread isn’t turning out right, the real issue might be how you’re measuring your ingredients. Measuring by cups and spoons can lead to major inconsistencies—especially in recipes that rely on balance, like bread dough.
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🍞 How to Determine the Protein Content in Flour for Better Baking
When it comes to baking, understanding the protein content in your flour is crucial to achieving the right texture and structure in your breads, cakes, or pastries. The protein percentage directly influences the strength of gluten formation, which is responsible for creating that chewy or soft texture in your baked…
Welcome to the Baking Great Bread at Home Blog
Home › Blog
Welcome to the Blog
You’ve landed in the heart of Baking Great Bread at Home. Here you’ll find real recipes, tested techniques, and zero ads—because learning to bake great bread shouldn’t mean scrolling through someone’s life story first.
From sourdough starters to hydration ratios, oven setups, and shaping techniques, this blog is built to help you succeed—step by step.
Use the search bar at the top of the page to find exactly what you need. And if you get stuck, you’ve got support waiting below in the Ask the Expert chat.
Make yourself at home—and let’s get baking.
– Henry
Ask the Expert: Get Real Help, Right When You Need It
👋 Welcome, Baker—glad you’re here.
Have a question? Whether it’s hydration, flour swaps, starter care, or why your loaf split weird—I’ve got you. This blog is here to help.
🔍 Looking for something specific?
Use the search bar at the top to explore hundreds of posts and tutorials. Or scroll down to browse what’s new, what’s trending, and what’s useful right now.
🧠 Tip: You can ask the Expert anything—sourdough troubleshooting, recipe advice, even help converting yeast types or adjusting hydration. Try it out below.
Why Baking Bread at Home is Worth It
Baking bread at home not only fills your kitchen with delightful aromas, but it also allows you to control the ingredients. This means you can choose organic flour, avoid preservatives, and create breads that suit your taste and dietary needs. Additionally, the satisfaction of pulling a fresh loaf out of the oven is unmatched.
Think about the last time you bought a loaf of bread—did it have a long list of ingredients? By making your own, you can keep things simple. Flour, water, salt, and yeast are all you need for the most basic bread. And from there, the world of flavors and textures opens up.
Getting Started: Essential Tools for Home Baking
Before jumping into baking, it’s important to have the right tools. Here’s a brief overview of essential items you’ll need:
- Digital Scale: Precise measurements are crucial for successful baking. Invest in a good digital scale to measure your ingredients accurately.
- Mixing Bowls: A set of mixing bowls in various sizes will help you with everything from mixing your dough to letting it rise.
- Dough Scraper: This tool makes handling dough easier and helps when transferring it to your baking surface.
- Baking Stone or Steel: For optimal crust formation, a baking stone or steel can help retain and distribute heat evenly in your oven.
- Thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is essential for checking the doneness of your bread and ensuring your water is the right temperature for yeast activation.
Investing in these tools will set you up for success as you embark on your bread-baking journey.
Understanding the Ingredients: What Makes Great Bread?
At the heart of any great loaf of bread are its ingredients. Let’s break down the key elements that contribute to a delicious bread:
- Flour: Different types of flour can yield different textures and flavors. For example, bread flour has a higher protein content, leading to a chewier texture, while all-purpose flour is more versatile.
- Water: The temperature and quality of water can affect yeast activity. Always use filtered water for the best results.
- Yeast: Fresh yeast often produces better results than dried yeast, but understanding how to work with both is essential for home bakers.
- Salt: Not only does it enhance flavor, but salt also regulates yeast fermentation, preventing over-proofing.
Understanding these ingredients helps in troubleshooting problems, ensuring you can adapt recipes to your preference.
The Blog
7 Expert Tips for Perfect Bread
Here are seven expert tips to help you bake perfect bread:
- Start with a Good Recipe: Follow a trusted recipe as a guideline to understand the basics before experimenting.
- Proper Kneading: Knead your dough until it’s smooth and elastic, which helps develop gluten.
- Watch the Temperature: Use a thermometer to check if the dough has risen sufficiently and the bread is baked through.
- Let it Rise: Be patient during the rising process; it’s crucial for flavor and texture.
- Check for Doneness: Tap the bottom of the loaf; if it sounds hollow, it’s ready!
- Cool Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool completely to set the texture and flavor.
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new flavors, shapes, or techniques. That’s part of the fun of baking!
