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Dorothy Thomas

Bread Bowl Recipe

A warm, crusty bread bowl perfect for serving soups, dips, or stews. This homemade bread bowl is easy to make and adds a delicious edible touch to your meals.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, European
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 390g 3 1/4 cups All-purpose flour (or bread flour)
  • 7g 1 packet Active dry yeast
  • 300ml 1 1/4 cups Warm water (110°F/45°C)
  • 10g 2 tsp Sugar
  • 5g 1 tsp Salt
  • 15ml 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 Egg (for egg wash)
  • 15ml 1 tbsp Water (for egg wash

Equipment

  • Stand mixer (or large mixing bowl)
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife or bread lame
  • Pastry brush

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a stand mixer (or large bowl), combine flour and salt.
  3. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
  4. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic (or 5 minutes in a mixer).
  5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled.
  6. Punch down the dough and divide into 4 equal portions.
  7. Shape each into a tight ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  8. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
  9. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  10. Mix egg and water for egg wash. Brush over dough balls.
  11. Use a sharp knife to score an "X" on top (optional).
  12. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
  13. Let cool slightly, then cut off the top and scoop out the center to fill with soup or dip.

Notes

  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
  • Variations: Use whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
  • Serving Tip: Fill with creamy soups (like broccoli cheddar or clam chowder) or spinach-artichoke dip.