INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, instant yeast, and salt. If using honey or sugar for added sweetness, add it to the dry ingredients.
2. Add Water: Gradually add the lukewarm water to the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. Adjust the amount of water as needed to achieve a slightly sticky but manageable dough.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook attachment for this step.
4. Let it Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
5. Shape the Loaf: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a loaf by gently folding the edges towards the center and then rolling it into a smooth ball or oval shape.
6. Second Rise: Place the shaped loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan. Cover it loosely with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until it puffs up slightly.
7. Preheat the Oven: While the loaf is rising, preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). If desired, place a baking stone or overturned baking sheet in the oven to preheat as well – this will help create a crisp crust.
8. Bake the Bread: Once the loaf has finished its second rise, slash the top with a sharp knife or razor blade to create decorative patterns. This allows steam to escape during baking and prevents the bread from splitting. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Cool and Enjoy: Remove the freshly baked German bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy the bread plain or with your favorite toppings, such as butter, cheese, or jam.
