Danish Diaries: Raspberry Cream Cheese Danish

Breakfast, Fruity, Recipes for Beginners

Raspberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe: Quick, Easy, and Perfect for Any Occasion

If you’re looking for a simple, delicious pastry that will wow your family and friends, this Raspberry Cream Cheese Danish recipe is a must-try. Using store-bought puff pastry, this recipe is incredibly easy to make yet tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The rich, creamy filling made with cream cheese and sweet raspberry jam is wrapped in flaky, buttery pastry, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply craving something sweet, this raspberry Danish recipe will become your go-to for effortless yet impressive baking.

One of the best things about this easy Danish recipe is how versatile it is. While raspberry jam is used here, you can easily swap it out for any fruit preserve you prefer—strawberry, blueberry, or even apricot work beautifully in this recipe. The creamy filling, made with cream cheese and a hint of vanilla, pairs perfectly with any fruit spread, making it easy to adapt to your personal tastes or what you have on hand. It’s a perfect way to customize your pastry to suit any occasion or mood.

This cream cheese Danish recipe is perfect for those days when you want something homemade without the hassle. The store-bought puff pastry saves time and effort, making this recipe not only quick but also accessible for anyone, whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner. With just a few ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll have a golden, flaky pastry on the table in under 30 minutes. The best part? It’s so easy to make that even beginner bakers will feel confident putting it together.

Once your Raspberry Cream Cheese Danish is out of the oven, it gets topped off with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. This drizzle adds the perfect finishing touch, giving your pastry a glossy, sweet shine that takes it from good to great. The flaky Danish pastry combined with the creamy filling and the sweet raspberry jam makes every bite feel indulgent, without being overly heavy. Whether you’re enjoying it as a morning treat with coffee or as a dessert after dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress anyone who tries it.

Raspberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe

Ingredients:

1 sheet of store-bought puff pastry (thawed for no more than 40 minutes if frozen)
1/2 block (4 oz) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup raspberry jam (or any fruit preserve of your choice)
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

For the glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 pinch of salt
2-3 tablespoons milk (adjust to desired consistency)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Unfold the sheet of puff pastry on the prepared baking sheet. Using a pizza cutter, slice the edges of the puff pastry into strips, about 1-inch wide, on each side of the pastry.
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly down the center of the puff pastry, leaving space on the sides for folding.
Spoon small dollops of raspberry jam (or your favorite fruit preserve) over the cream cheese filling.
Take the strips of pastry you cut along the sides and braid them over the cream cheese mixture, folding them over in a criss-cross pattern. Trim any excess pastry from the ends.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush the egg wash over the entire pastry to give it a golden finish when baked.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
While the Danish is baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and milk. Adjust the amount of milk for your desired glaze consistency.
Once the Danish has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top. Slice and enjoy!

This Raspberry Cream Cheese Danish is a delightful treat that’s quick, easy, and versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. The combination of store-bought puff pastry, creamy filling, and sweet raspberry jam is a winning recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Plus, the simple glaze adds the perfect finishing touch to this irresistible pastry! Happy Baking!

Easy Homemade Vanilla Pecan Biscotti Recipe

Breakfast, Recipes for Beginners

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make biscotti recipe, you’ve come to the right place! This homemade vanilla pecan biscotti combines the rich, nutty flavor of toasted pecans with a hint of vanilla and a splash of bourbon for an irresistible treat. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or serving it as a holiday gift, these biscotti are sure to impress.

Biscotti, with its crisp texture and delicate flavors, has long been a favorite Italian treat. But what sets this particular biscotti recipe apart is the addition of bourbon and toasted pecans. The bourbon adds a depth of flavor, while the pecans provide a satisfying crunch in every bite. Plus, this recipe is incredibly simple and quick to make, so you can whip up a batch even if you’re short on time.

Tips for Perfect Biscotti

Toast the Pecans: Lightly toasting the pecans before adding them to the dough enhances their flavor and gives the biscotti an even nuttier taste.
Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter biscotti, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of sugar, but keep in mind that biscotti are meant to be a bit more on the mildly sweet side since they’re often dipped in coffee or tea.
Bourbon or Brandy: While bourbon is a great option for adding a rich flavor, you can use brandy as a substitute if you prefer. Just be sure to choose a good quality spirit to ensure the best taste in your biscotti.
Store Your Biscotti Properly: Biscotti can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks, making them perfect for holiday gifting or preparing in advance. They also freeze well, so you can enjoy them anytime.

This homemade vanilla and pecan biscotti recipe is a fantastic combination of sweet, nutty, and slightly boozy flavors that will leave everyone craving more. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this recipe is simple and easy to follow. The addition of bourbon adds an unexpected twist that makes these biscotti stand out from traditional recipes. Plus, the toasted pecans provide a lovely crunch in every bite.

Serving Suggestions

Coffee Companion: These biscotti pair perfectly with your morning coffee or a cup of tea. The crisp texture makes them ideal for dipping!
Holiday Gift Idea: Biscotti also make for an excellent homemade gift during the holidays. Package them in a cute tin or jar, and you’ve got a thoughtful, delicious present.
Snack Time: Need a quick snack? Grab a couple of biscotti and enjoy the nutty crunch and flavorful bite whenever the mood strikes!

Whether you’re a fan of classic biscotti or are looking to try something new, this homemade vanilla pecan biscotti recipe with bourbon is a must-try. It’s simple to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. With its perfect blend of sweet, nutty, and boozy notes, these biscotti will quickly become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Homemade Vanilla Pecan Biscotti

To make these easy vanilla pecan biscotti, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup sugar
1 stick unsalted butter, melted
3 tablespoons bourbon (or brandy, if you prefer)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup pecans, chopped and lightly toasted
3 large eggs
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Glaze (optional):

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup real maple syrup
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 pinch salt

Instructions:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure your biscotti don’t stick during baking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, melted butter, bourbon, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is well blended and smooth.
Crack the eggs into the bowl and whisk them into the wet ingredients. Continue whisking until the mixture is fully combined.
In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a thick dough forms. The dough will be sticky but manageable.
Fold in the toasted and chopped pecans. The nuts will add a wonderful crunch to your biscotti and pair perfectly with the vanilla and bourbon flavors.
Divide the dough in half and form each portion into a log shape, about 12 inches long and 3 inches wide. Place the logs onto your prepared baking sheet, making sure there’s enough space between them for the biscotti to expand slightly.
Place the biscotti logs into the fridge for 30 minutes to chill and rest.
Bake the logs in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep a close eye on them to avoid over-baking. The logs should be crisp but not too hard at this stage.
Remove the biscotti logs from the oven and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. Once slightly cooled, use a serrated knife to slice the logs into 1/2-inch thick pieces. The more evenly you slice, the more uniformly your biscotti will bake in the next step.
Place the sliced biscotti back onto the baking sheet, cut side down. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until they’re crisp and golden brown. Keep checking to ensure they don’t burn.
Mix together the butter, maple syrup, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt using a hand mixer.
Once baked, remove the biscotti from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Drizzle with the glaze if you like. Now your homemade vanilla pecan biscotti is ready to enjoy!

Happy baking! 🍪

Easy Danish Recipe: Hazelnut Puff Pastry Delight

Breakfast, Chocolate, Recipes for Beginners

If you’re looking for a simple and delicious breakfast or snack, this easy Danish recipe using store-bought puff pastry is the answer! This quick puff pastry hazelnut Danish is perfect for beginners and home bakers looking to impress their family with minimal effort. The combination of Nutella and roasted hazelnuts gives this pastry a rich, indulgent flavor, while the puff pastry dough ensures that every bite is light and flaky. Plus, it’s a breeze to make, so you can have fresh, homemade Danish pastries ready in no time.

Making this easy Danish pastry is as simple as using a frozen puff pastry sheet and a few key ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. The star of the recipe is Nutella, which gives the Danish a smooth, chocolate-hazelnut filling that’s irresistible. If you’re a beginner baker or just looking for a no-fuss recipe, this one is for you! By using store-bought puff pastry, you eliminate the need to make dough from scratch, keeping the process as quick and easy as possible.

This simple Danish pastry recipe doesn’t just taste amazing—it looks impressive too. The braided puff pastry design not only enhances the texture but also gives it a professional finish. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, an afternoon treat, or a special family gathering, this puff pastry hazelnut Danish will definitely become a crowd-pleaser. And the best part? You don’t need advanced baking skills to pull it off! Just follow a few easy steps to create a golden, flaky masterpiece.

The versatility of this easy puff pastry Danish recipe makes it perfect for customizing as well. If you’re not a fan of hazelnuts, you could substitute them with other nuts or even fruits like berries or bananas. Feel free to experiment with different fillings or toppings to make it your own. Whether you stick with the classic hazelnut flavor or get creative with other ingredients, this recipe is sure to satisfy your craving for a quick and tasty homemade Danish pastry.

Hazelnut Puff Pastry Danish Recipe

Ingredients:

1 frozen puff pastry sheet
1 container of Nutella (about 1/2 cup)
1 egg
1 tablespoon of water (for egg wash)
Crushed & roasted hazelnuts (for garnish)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay the frozen puff pastry sheet flat on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let it thaw for a few minutes until it’s pliable.
Take the two outer panels of the puff pastry and cut about 6-8 slits along each side. This will allow the dough to form a braided effect once folded.
Spread 2-3 dollops of Nutella evenly down the middle panel of the pastry. Be generous with the Nutella, ensuring it covers the center well.
Next, take the strips of puff pastry along the edges and fold them diagonally over the Nutella filling, alternating sides like you’re braiding the dough. Continue folding until you reach the bottom. Cut off any excess dough that spills over at the end.
In a small bowl, mix the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush this wash over the entire braided pastry to give it a golden, glossy finish while baking.
Sprinkle the top with chopped, roasted hazelnuts for added flavor and crunch.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the Danish is golden brown and puffed up. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle a little more Nutella over the cooled Danish to garnish. Slice and serve!

Enjoy your quick, easy, and delicious hazelnut puff pastry Danish! The simplicity and beauty of this bake is hard to beat. I hope you enjoy!

Quick Puff Pastry Apple Turnovers: Easy Fall Dessert for Thanksgiving

Breakfast, Fruity, Recipes for Beginners

Looking for a quick and delicious thanksgiving treat? This easy apple turnover recipe using premade puff pastry is gonna be your new go-to! Perfect for busy bakers, these flaky turnovers are filled with sweet, spiced apples, making them a delightful treat for any occasion, especially the holidays. Whether you’re serving them warm with ice cream or enjoying them as a breakfast treat, these apple turnovers are sure to impress. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a mouthwatering dessert ready in no time!

Made with store-bought, premade puff pastry, this recipe is designed with simplicity in mind, making it easy to whip up a batch of warm, flaky turnovers filled with sweet, spiced apples. In just a few simple steps, you can create a delightful dessert that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy evening at home.

This easy apple turnover recipe is not only quick to prepare, also offers a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen—making them an ideal addition to your fall festivities. There is nothing quite like a warm pastry to enjoy with coffee and loved ones. The holidays are a special time memorialized by delicious flavors and aromas. The decadent smell of spiced apples will become a sure staple of your holiday season!

Baking with premade puff pastry is incredibly easy and accessible, making it a go-to choice for both novice and seasoned bakers alike. Unlike traditional pie crusts or doughs, puff pastry requires minimal preparation—simply thaw it, roll it out, and it’s ready to use. Its flaky, buttery layers create a delightful texture that adds an impressive touch to any dessert or savory dish without the need for extensive techniques. With just a few quick steps, you can fill it with your favorite ingredients and pop it in the oven, yielding golden, flaky pastries that look and taste like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Quick Puff Pastry Apple Turnovers Recipe

Apple Turnover

1 box (17.3 ounces) puff pastry (2 sheets)
2 tablespoons butter
4 Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored, and diced
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 pinch ground cloves
1 pinch ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon water
1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 egg

Icing

1 tablespoon milk
3/4 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Puff Pastry: Thaw the puff pastry sheets according to package instructions. Set aside (careful not to leave it out for too long before use – no more than 40 minutes ).
Make the Apple Filling: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until combined and the apples are soft. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water until smooth, then add it to the apple mixture. Stir until the filling thickens, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Cut the Pastry: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut each puff pastry sheet into 4 squares.
Fill the Pastry: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the apple filling into the center of each pastry square. Be careful not to overfill.
Seal the Turnovers: Fold each square diagonally to form a triangle. Use a fork to press the edges together and seal the filling into the pastry.
Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and a splash of water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the turnovers with the egg wash to give them a golden color while baking.
Bake: Place the turnovers on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown.
Make the Glaze: While the turnovers are baking, mix the powdered sugar with 1 tablespoon of milk in a small bowl until smooth.
Cool and Drizzle: Once the turnovers are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the glaze over the warm turnovers before serving.

Enjoy your delicious, flaky apple turnovers—perfect for any fall gathering or cozy dessert!

Pumpkin Bread

Breakfast

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home. This easy Pumpkin Bread recipe is delicious and gorgeous.

This sourdough pumpkin bread perfectly captures the essence of fall, blending the tangy depth of sourdough with the cozy, spiced sweetness of pumpkin. Whether you’re looking to impress at your next gathering or simply want to enjoy a slice with your morning coffee, this pumpkin bread recipe is a delightful way to celebrate the season. Join me as we dive into the steps to create a loaf that’s as delicious as it is beautiful!

One of the best things about this sourdough pumpkin bread recipe is its simplicity—it’s a no-knead approach that makes the process accessible to bakers of all skill levels. With just a few ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can create a flavorful, artisan-style loaf without the fuss of traditional kneading.

The magic lies in the long fermentation process, allowing the dough to develop its structure and flavor while you go about your day. Just mix, let it rise, and then bake—it’s that easy!

The real showstopper is the delicious pumpkin and cinnamon swirl that runs through each slice. As the bread bakes, the warm, aromatic spices mingle with the sweet, earthy notes of pumpkin, creating a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Each bite offers a delightful combination of soft, tender crumb and rich, spiced sweetness, making it the perfect companion for a cozy afternoon or a festive brunch. You won’t just taste the season—you’ll feel it in every delicious mouthful!

Sourdough Pumpkin Swirl Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

Bread:

1/4 cup sourdough starter
1 cup warm water
1/4 cup pumpkin puree
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
4 cups bread flour (+/- a half cup, dough can be sticky)

Cinnamon Swirl:

1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin spice
1/2 cup brown sugar

Instructions:

Combine the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm water, pumpkin puree, and maple syrup. Stir until well blended. Gradually add the flour salt, mixing until fully incorporated. Combine until a rough dough forms (the dough may be a little sticky).
Stretch and Fold (First Round): Throw a tea towel over the dough and set a timer for 15 minutes. Let the dough rest in a warm, dry place until the timer goes off. Then, stretch the dough on the four corners (you are building the gluten). Fold the corners back into the middle and create a rough round again after stretching. Set the timer for 15 minutes and let the dough rest again.
Stretch and Fold (Second Round): Repeat the stretch and fold process again. Once you finish stretching, cover the dough with a tea towel and store in a warm, dry place.
Let the dough rise: After you have stretched the dough twice, let the dough rest for 6-8 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon, pumpkin spice, and brown sugar.
Stretch the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Stretch the dough as long as you can without tearing into a large rectangle. Sprinkle 1/2 of your cinnamon swirl mixture over this rectangle.
Preform a Letter Fold: Fold one long side of your rectangle into the center. Repeat this fold with the other side of your rectangle. Roll the dough from the bottom onto itself, sprinkling more cinnamon sugar mixture with each roll. Form into a ball (be gentle with the dough at this point). Cover with a tea towel and let the dough rest for 15 minutes.
Stretch and Fold (Third Round): Repeat the letter fold one more time, much more gently this time. Only stretch the dough as far as it can go without tearing this time (it may not go far). Fold and roll as you did above. Form into a ball and cover with a tea towel. Let the dough rest for 1 hour in the fridge.
Preheat the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 450°F . Once preheated, add your dutch oven to preheat for 1 hour (the hot dutch oven is what creates the crispy crust).
Bake: Remove the dough from the fridge and onto a piece of parchment sprinkled with flour. Score the top of your loaf with a knife (or any tools you may have). Carefully place into your preheated dutch oven. Bake for 25 minutes covered and 5-10 minutes uncovered.
Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least an hour before slicing. Enjoy the delightful aroma and flavor of your homemade pumpkin sourdough swirl bread!

Now you have a delicious loaf perfect for fall gatherings or cozy mornings at home!

Easy Sourdough Bread Recipe

Breakfast, Recipes for Beginners

Welcome to the delightful world of baking with this easy sourdough bread recipe! Perfect for beginners, this simple sourdough bread recipe will help you transform your active sourdough starter into a beautifully crusty loaf right in your own kitchen. With my step-by-step instructions, you’ll discover how to achieve that perfect balance of flavor and texture, making it a joy to bake. Whether you’re after a no-knead sourdough bread method or tips for troubleshooting common issues, this recipe is designed to make sourdough approachable and rewarding for every baker. Let’s dive in and bring your starter to life!

Easy Sourdough Bread Recipe – Is It Actually Easy?

This sourdough bread recipe is incredibly easy, making it perfect for beginner bakers! Instead of labor-intensive kneading, all it requires is a simple technique of stretching the dough at the four corners two times. This method helps develop gluten without the need for extensive kneading, allowing you to create a deliciously textured loaf with minimal effort. With just a few stretches, you’ll set the foundation for a crusty, flavorful bread that impresses everyone at the table. Baking sourdough has never been so straightforward and enjoyable!

Versatile

This sourdough bread recipe is wonderfully versatile, serving as a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity! You can easily customize it by adding a variety of seeds like sesame, poppy, or sunflower for extra crunch and flavor. Want to experiment with different tastes? Incorporate herbs, garlic, or even cheese to elevate your loaf. This recipe also serves as a fantastic base for creating sandwiches, toasts, or even croutons, allowing you to adapt it for any meal or occasion. Whether you’re looking to enjoy it plain or dress it up with unique ingredients, this sourdough recipe offers endless possibilities for delicious creations!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips for making sourdough bread, incorporating both primary and secondary keywords:

Tips for Making Sourdough Bread

Use a Strong Sourdough Starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before you start. Feed it regularly to keep it strong and ready for baking.
Embrace the Stretch and Fold Technique: Instead of extensive kneading, utilize the stretch and fold method. Stretch the dough at the four corners two times during the first rise to develop gluten without overworking the dough.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize your loaf by adding seeds, herbs, or spices. This makes your simple sourdough bread recipe adaptable to any taste preference.
Monitor the Fermentation Process: Pay attention to the dough’s rise and bubbles. The fermentation time can vary based on room temperature, so be flexible and adjust as needed.
Preheat Your Baking Surface: Whether using a baking stone or a Dutch oven, preheat it to ensure a great crust on your no-knead sourdough bread. This step is key for that beautiful, crispy exterior.
Practice Patience: Allow the dough to rise and develop flavor. This patience is what makes sourdough baking so rewarding, resulting in a delicious loaf that you can be proud of!

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering your beginner sourdough recipe and creating amazing bread with every bake!

Easy Sourdough Bread Recipe for Beginners

Sourdough bread is a timeless classic that not only boasts incredible flavor but is also surprisingly easy to make, especially with this beginner-friendly recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a crusty, delicious loaf that will impress your friends and family. Let’s dive into this straightforward easy sourdough bread recipe!

Ingredients

1/4 cup active sourdough starter
1 1/3 cups warm water
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (you may want to adjust this for stickiness)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add your active sourdough starter and warm water. Mix them together until the starter is dissolved. Then, gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a rough dough forms. Don’t worry if the dough is a bit sticky; you can adjust the flour as needed.

2. Rest and Stretch: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and set a timer for 15 minutes. This resting period allows the flour to hydrate. After 15 minutes, it’s time to stretch the dough! Grab the corners of the dough and stretch them upwards, then fold them back into the center. Do this at all four corners of the dough. Cover it again and set the timer for another 15 minutes before repeating the stretching process (two total).

3. Rise: After the second stretch, cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm space for 6-8 hours, or overnight. The longer rise time allows the flavors to develop beautifully, making your sourdough bread even more delicious.

4. Preheat the Oven: When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 450°F. Place your empty Dutch oven inside to preheat for about an hour. This will ensure a fantastic crust on your bread!

5. Final Stretch and Chill: While the oven is preheating, gently pull the dough one last time, then cover it and place it in the fridge for about an hour. This chilling step helps enhance the dough’s structure.

6. Shape and Score: After an hour, take the dough out of the fridge and carefully transfer it to a floured surface. Shape it into a round loaf. Using a sharp knife or a lame, cut slits into the top of the dough to allow for expansion during baking.

7. Bake: Once your oven and Dutch oven are preheated, carefully remove the Dutch oven and place the dough inside. Cover it with the lid and bake for 20-25 minutes. After this time, remove the lid and bake for an additional 5 minutes to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust.

8. Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, carefully remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool on a wire rack. This will help maintain the crust’s crispiness. After cooling, slice into your fresh sourdough and enjoy!

This simple sourdough bread recipe is perfect for beginners looking to delve into the world of baking. With minimal kneading and a few straightforward steps, you’ll be able to create a delicious loaf that showcases the unique flavors of sourdough. Happy baking!