Homemade Crusty Bread Bowls Recipe for Soup

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like serving a warm bowl of soup inside a freshly baked bread bowl. These homemade crusty bread bowls have a golden, crisp exterior and a soft, chewy interior that’s perfect for holding creamy soups, chowders, stews, and dips. They’re surprisingly easy to make and bring a bakery-style touch to any meal.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups (540 ml) warm water (105–110°F / 40–43°C)
• 4 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast (2 packets)
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 6 cups (780 g) bread flour, plus more as needed
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Egg Wash (Optional)

• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar.
2. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. Add the bread flour, salt, and olive oil.
2. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes, or with a stand mixer for 5–6 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. If the dough is too sticky, add a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time.

Step 3: First Rise

1. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl.
2. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap.
3. Let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Bread Bowls

1. Punch down the dough and divide it into 6 equal portions.
2. Shape each portion into a smooth, tight ball.
3. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between each.

Step 5: Second Rise

1. Cover loosely and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 6: Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. For a shiny crust, whisk together the egg and water and brush over the dough.
3. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until deep golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
4. Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.

Step 7: Create the Bowls

1. Using a sharp knife, cut a circle from the top of each loaf.
2. Remove the center bread, leaving about a 1-inch thick shell.
3. Fill with your favorite soup and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

• Creamy potato soup
• Broccoli cheddar soup
• Clam chowder
• French onion soup
• Beef stew

Tips

• Save the removed bread centers for croutons or breadcrumbs.
• For extra crustiness, place a pan of hot water on the bottom oven rack while baking.
• Bread bowls can be baked a day ahead and stored in an airtight container.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Rise Time: 2 hours
Bake Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 6 bread bowls