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This bread is all about that crispy, crusty goodness. With a perfectly crusty exterior and a soft and chewy interior, this bread loaf is a delightful treat for your family and friends.
It’s that time of year again when pumpkins are everywhere, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a pumpkin-shaped artisan bread loaf?
This recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table with its festive shape and scrumptious taste.
Get ready to indulge in this mouthwatering treat that is bursting with rich flavors and perfect for any occasion.
With a perfectly crusty exterior and soft and chewy interior, this pumpkin-shaped bread is not only visually stunning but also a delight for your taste buds.
The aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home is the cherry on top of this perfect fall treat.
Why You Will Love This Dutch Oven Artisan Bread
- Learn how to make a delicious pumpkin-shaped artisan bread loaf.
- Impress your family and guests with a festive centerpiece that is as delicious as it is visually stunning.
- Our step-by-step instructions and tips and tricks make this recipe easy to follow and ensure a perfect outcome every time.
- With a perfectly crusty exterior and a soft and chewy interior, this bread loaf is a delightful treat for your family and friends.
- The aroma of freshly baked bread will fill your home and add a cozy touch to any occasion.
Prep time 20 minutes | Cook time 45 minutes | Set time 1 hour
Pumpkin Crusty Bread Ingredients
Come autumn, there’s nothing more satisfying than the smell of fresh bread baking in your oven.
And what better way to celebrate the season than with a pumpkin-shaped artisan bread loaf?
First things first, let’s talk about the crust. This bread is all about that crispy, crusty goodness.
To achieve that perfect crust, you want to make sure your dough is wet enough and your oven is hot enough.
- Active dry yeast
- Water, hot, 110 degrees F
- All purpose flour, aerated and divided
- Kosher salt
- Oil
How to Make Pumpkin-Shaped Pumpkin Bread
Add yeast to hot water (110°-115°) and let sit for 5 minutes. Your water should be foamy when ready.
Add 3 cups of aerated flour to a mixing bowl with the salt.
Once the yeast is foamy, add to the flour and begin to work the mixture into a sticky but firm dough. You can use your hands or a firm spatula.
Add a splash of oil to a clean bowl, coat the walls of the bowl, and place the dough in. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let sit for 1 hour. The dough should double in size.
Preheat the oven to 450°f and put the Dutch oven in.
Lightly dust a flat dry surface and gently work the dough into a smooth round loaf. Do not overwork the dough. Let the dough set for 15 more minutes.
Cut 4 strands of baking twine about 18” and arrange on a parchment spreading out 8 directions from a center point.
Place the loaf on top of the twine. Tie the individual strands together at the center point of the loaf top.
Score the dough by using a sharp knife with a fine edge or a razor blade in a desired pattern.
Remove the hot Dutch oven, and add the parchment paper with the loaf on it to the Dutch oven.
Cover with the lid and cook at 450°f for 30 minutes.
At 30 minutes, remove the lid and cook for 5-10 minutes until the crust is golden brown. Tap the loaf as it should sound like a hollow drum.
Let cool before slicing open.
“This bread is the perfect addition to any fall gathering. It’s crusty on the outside and soft on the inside – just the way bread should be!”
And there you have it – a beautiful, pumpkin-shaped bread loaf that’s both festive and delicious.
Serve it warm with some butter or your favorite autumn-inspired spread.
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Can I add other ingredients like nuts or seeds to the bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment and add your favorite ingredients like pumpkin seeds, walnuts, or even dried cranberries to the dough. Just make sure to adjust the measurements accordingly and be mindful of any allergies or dietary restrictions.
Can I make the dough ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. This allows for a longer fermentation period, resulting in a more complex flavor. Simply shape the dough into a pumpkin and let it proof in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature, and then proceed with the baking instructions.
How long does the bread stay fresh?
This pumpkin-shaped artisan bread loaf should stay fresh for about 2-3 days when stored properly. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. If you have any leftovers, you can also slice and freeze the bread for later enjoyment.
Can I make mini pumpkin-shaped loaves instead?
Absolutely! If you prefer smaller individual servings, you can divide the dough into smaller portions and shape them into mini pumpkin loaves. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, as smaller loaves may require less time in the oven to ensure they are fully baked.
