Artisan Bread - Mixed Berry Swirl

Dutch oven mixed berry swirl artisan bread is a rustic, yeast-raised loaf - not sourdough - with ribbons of lightly sweetened berries running through its airy interior. A simple dough made with flour, instant yeast, salt, and water is allowed to rise, then layered or folded with a blend of mixed berries. The berries create vibrant purple-red swirls of mixed fruit.

Baking the loaf in a preheated, covered Dutch oven traps steam, producing a crisp, deeply golden crust and a soft, pillowy center. Removing the lid near the end lets the exterior brown and develop craggy artisan ridges. The finished bread is gently sweet rather than cake-like, with a striking berry marbling in every slice. It works well toasted with butter, cream cheese, honey, or preserves.