Preheat the oven with the cast iron bread baker inside
Lightly grease the baker if needed
Prepare the dough and shape it to fit the baker
Place the dough into the hot baker carefully
Cover with the lid if your baker has one
Bake for the recommended time and temperature
Remove the lid near the end if a crustier top is desired
Use oven mitts to remove the baker from the oven
Let the bread cool before slicing
Wash the baker by hand after it cools
Dry it completely to prevent rust
Apply a thin layer of oil if needed for maintenance