There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen. If you’ve ever wanted to bake bread at home but felt intimidated by the idea of kneading, proofing, and shaping, this no-knead bread recipe is the perfect solution.
This easy bread recipe requires minimal effort and just a few ingredients, yet it yields a beautiful, crusty loaf with a soft, airy interior. The secret to its success is long fermentation, which enhances both flavor and texture.
If you’re looking for a simple, foolproof way to make homemade bread, this no-knead method is the answer!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ No Kneading Required – The dough develops gluten naturally over time.
✔ Simple Ingredients – You only need flour, water, yeast, and salt.
✔ Minimal Effort – Just mix the ingredients, let the dough rise, and bake!
✔ Crusty Exterior, Soft Interior – The result is artisan-style bread without the work.
✔ Perfect for Beginners – No special equipment or baking skills needed.
Ingredients
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour (or bread flour for a chewier texture)
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon instant yeast (or ¾ teaspoon active dry yeast)
- 1½ cups (360ml) warm water (not too hot; around 100°F/38°C)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast.
- Add the warm water and stir using a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
- Let the dough sit at room temperature for 12-18 hours.
- The dough will double in size and become bubbly and sticky.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
- Lightly dust a work surface with flour.
- Turn out the dough and gently shape it into a round loaf (without kneading!).
- Place the dough on a sheet of parchment paper.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
- Place a Dutch oven (or oven-safe pot with a lid) into the oven.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and let the pot heat for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
- Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven.
- Lift the dough with the parchment paper and place it inside.
- Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
Step 6: Cool & Enjoy
- Transfer the bread to a wire rack and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
- Enjoy warm with butter, jam, or your favorite spreads!
Ways to Customize Your Bread
✔ Add Herbs & Spices: Try rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning.
✔ Mix in Seeds & Nuts: Add sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, or chopped walnuts for extra crunch.
✔ Make It Sweet: Stir in honey, cinnamon, or raisins for a lightly sweet bread.
✔ Cheesy Twist: Mix in shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or feta before baking.
Tips for Perfect No-Knead Bread
✔ Use Fresh Yeast – Old yeast may prevent the dough from rising properly.
✔ Let It Rise Fully – A slow rise creates better flavor and texture.
✔ Preheat the Dutch Oven – This helps develop a crispy crust.
✔ Don’t Skip Cooling Time – Slicing too early can make the bread gummy.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in a sealed container or paper bag for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: If you live in a humid climate, store the bread in the fridge.
- Freezing: Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes! Use ½ teaspoon instant yeast or ¾ teaspoon active dry yeast.
How do I know when the bread is done?
Tap the bottom of the loaf—if it sounds hollow, it’s ready. The internal temperature should be 200°F (93°C).
Can I make this bread without a Dutch oven?
Yes! Bake on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan, but place a pan of hot water in the oven to create steam.
Why is my bread dense?
This could be due to overproofing, underproofing, or incorrect flour-to-water ratios. The dough should be soft and stretchy before baking.
Conclusion
Making homemade bread doesn’t have to be complicated! This easy no-knead bread is perfect for anyone who wants fresh, bakery-quality bread without the hassle of kneading. With its crispy crust and soft, airy interior, it’s a must-try recipe for both beginners and experienced bakers.
Try this simple, foolproof bread and enjoy a delicious, homemade loaf with minimal effort!