Hi Joy, if you don't want to end up with a huge loaf of bread, measure out about 1 to 1 1/2 pounds of dough before baking. A 4.5-quart Dutch oven has a relatively large bottom — if you want your loaf to rise high, you'll need to shape your dough in a way that gives the loaf some structure. This way it'll rise up instead of out (and flatten in the process). Check out our article called Shaping a boule for step-by-step instructions about how to do this best. Shape your dough nice and tight and it'll retain its height during baking. If all else fails, consider investing in a Bread and Potato Pot. Its spherical shape ensures a gorgeous loaf every time. Good luck!

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