'Revolutionary for homemade bread': Why I can't wait to try Le Creuset's new oval bread oven

Le Creuset has a secret recipe for making home cooks smile, and the iconic brand has succeeded again with its latest release. What’s more, it’s bound to raise an eyebrow or two even among the most reluctant bakers.

This much-loved brand has just expanded its bread oven collection with the introduction of the Signature Oval Bread Oven, available for $299 at Amazon.

My thoughts? Why go round, when you can go oval? The new design joins Le Creuset’s Enameled Cast Iron Signature Round Bread Oven, $309 at Amazon, along with a whole host of colorways.

Le Creuset Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Oval Bread Oven: $299 at Amazon

Le Creuset's oval bread oven measures 7 (W) x 5.5 (H) inches, and has a 1.5-quart capacity. It’s suitable for baking and storing oblong-shaped loaves. The enameled cast iron exterior gives the bread oven a statement look, while the material ensures heat is evenly retained for a superior bake.

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I've previously cooked bread in an enameled cast-iron Dutch oven, which is round, so I'm interested to know what Le Creuset's new oval design offers.

Apart from extra capacity compared to its round counterpart, it's perfect for French bâtards, sourdoughs, sandwich breads, and longer artisan breads. Better still, it won’t look out of place on a countertop and is an ideal storage spot for freshly baked goods.

The oval bread oven is crafted from enameled cast iron, known for its heat-retentive properties, which produces even heat throughout the bake. And the durable enamel resists sticking, staining, and chipping.

From the outside, you might be surprised to find a matte black interior when you remove the lid. Le Creuset says this is easy to clean and develops a natural patina over time, improving performance with every bake.

For the perfect homemade loaf, the domed lid traps steam for a golden crust, and circulates steam for maximum rise and flavor. While the low profile has raised ridges for even browning and a golden, crispy crust.

The three-ring embossing on the base creates a signature finish without the need for parchment paper, and gives your loaf the artisan look it deserves.

It certainly has Le Creuset written all over it, finished with a stylish knob and two handles. With 19 colors to choose from, including darker shades like Artichaut and Oyster, and lighter tones such as Shallot and Pêche — there's plenty to love, though I'll be popping the Seasalt colorway into my basket.

With a bread oven that looks and performs this good, it’s going to be hard for bakers and non-bakers to resist.

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