Ingredients:

  • 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ tsp (7g) active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp (6g) granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ tsp (9g) fine sea salt
  • 1 cup (240ml) warm water
  • 1 tbsp (15g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled

Instructions:

  1. Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Stir in the melted butter, salt, and flour gradually.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth, elastic, and bounces back when poked.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (60–90 minutes).
  5. Gently punch down the dough, roll into a rectangle, and fold into a tight cylinder, pinching the seam shut.
  6. Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C) with an empty skillet on the bottom rack.
  7. Place the loaf on a baking sheet, score the top with three diagonal slashes, and place in the oven.
  8. Carefully pour 1 cup of hot water into the skillet and close the door immediately. Bake for 25–30 minutes until deep golden brown.