If you've ever dreamed of pulling a perfect loaf of bread from your own oven, this is the book that will make that dream a reality. The King Arthur Baking Company Big Book of Bread isn't just another cookbook—it's your personal bread baking mentor, guiding you through every step of the journey from simple sandwich bread to artisanal sourdough.
What makes this book truly special is how it breaks down the seemingly complex art of bread baking into approachable, manageable steps. The authors understand the challenges that trip up beginners: temperamental dough that won't behave, understanding how flour types affect your final product, mastering the art of folding and shaping, and knowing when your bread is perfectly proofed. Each technique is explained with clear, concise language and supported by helpful photographs that show you exactly what your dough should look like at each stage.
With 125 recipes covering every category of bread you can imagine, this book offers something for every baker and every occasion. You'll start with simple pan loaves like the Everyday Bread that will become your weekend staple, then progress to more ambitious projects like the Chocolate Levain or the Jerusalem Bagels that will impress family and friends. The sourdough section alone is worth the price of admission, featuring everything from a basic Sandwich Bread to the more challenging Baguette. And the "Things to Make with Bread" chapter opens up endless possibilities for using your homemade creations in delicious new ways.
This book goes beyond just recipes—it's a complete education in bread baking. Throughout the pages, you'll find QR codes that link to instructional videos, so you can watch techniques in action as you learn. The step-by-step photography shows you exactly how to shape different types of loaves, and the detailed troubleshooting section helps you understand what went wrong when things don't go according to plan. The ribbon marker is a thoughtful touch that makes it easy to find your favorite recipes time and time again.
Whether you're someone who's never baked bread before or an experienced baker looking to expand your repertoire, this book meets you where you are. The beginner-friendly recipes build confidence and fundamental skills, while the more complex projects provide a satisfying challenge. The instructional information about flour types, yeast varieties, and temperature control provides the knowledge you need to understand not just how to follow recipes, but how to adapt them and even create your own.
