If you’ve ever wanted to bake bread but felt overwhelmed by the idea of kneading dough, this Easy No-Knead Bread Recipe is for you! This straightforward method yields a warm, crusty loaf with minimal effort, relying on time instead of kneading to build flavor and texture. Whether you’re a beginner or just short on time, this no-knead bread recipe can bring the satisfaction of homemade bread straight to your table without the hassle.
Why This Easy No-Knead Bread Recipe Works
This Easy No-Knead Bread Recipe works by using an extended fermentation period, which allows the dough to develop its flavor and texture naturally. The result is a rustic loaf with a crispy crust and a soft, chewy interior—just like what you’d find in an artisanal bakery. Here’s why it’s perfect:
- Time over Technique: By giving the dough 12-18 hours to ferment, you eliminate the need for kneading.
- Simple Ingredients: You only need four ingredients—flour, yeast, salt, and water—which you likely already have at home.
- Dutch Oven Baking: Baking in a preheated Dutch oven traps steam, resulting in an extra-crispy crust and bakery-style appearance.
What You’ll Need for This Easy No-Knead Bread Recipe
To make this delicious Easy No-Knead Bread Recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 cups flour (all-purpose or bread flour)
- 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast (quick yeast works best)
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 cups water (room temperature)
Optional Add-Ins
Personalize your bread by adding seeds, herbs, garlic, or cheese to the dough. These additions can bring extra flavor and make each loaf unique!
How to Make This Easy No-Knead Bread Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, instant yeast, and salt. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
Step 2: Add Water and Mix
Add water to the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, stir until the ingredients are just combined. The dough will be sticky and rough—don’t worry, it’s supposed to look that way!
Step 3: Let the Dough Rest and Rise
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rest at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours. This extended fermentation process develops the flavor and texture of the dough.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, it will be soft, sticky, and full of bubbles. Flour your hands and a clean surface, then carefully transfer the dough onto the floured surface. Gently shape it into a round, but don’t knead—just fold it a few times to help it hold its shape.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven and Dutch Oven
Place a heavy pot or Dutch oven with a lid in your oven, then preheat to 450°F (230°C). Allow it to heat for at least 30 minutes; this hot environment helps create the perfect crust.
Step 6: Transfer Dough to the Dutch Oven
Once the pot is hot, carefully remove it from the oven. Place the dough on a piece of parchment paper, lift it, and lower it into the pot. Cover with the lid.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Place the Dutch oven back in the oven and bake with the lid on for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Carefully remove the bread from the pot and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. This will help the crust set and make it easier to cut.
Tips + Tricks & More for Recipe Success
- Use Room Temperature Water: Water that’s too hot may kill the yeast, while cold water slows fermentation. Room temperature is ideal.
- Be Patient with Rising: The long rise is essential for flavor. If possible, let the dough sit for the full 18 hours.
- Create a Bakery Crust with Steam: Baking in a preheated Dutch oven traps steam around the bread, creating a shiny, crackling crust.
- Don’t Skip the Preheat: Preheating the pot is essential for a crispy, well-baked loaf.
Serving the Easy No-Knead Bread Recipe
This versatile Easy No-Knead Bread Recipe pairs beautifully with many dishes. Slice it fresh for sandwiches, toast it for breakfast, or use it as a side for soups and stews. Its chewy, airy interior is also perfect for soaking up dips and sauces.
Serving Suggestions
Try pairing this bread with:
- Dips and Spreads: Serve with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, whipped butter, or flavored spreads.
- Soups and Stews: Enjoy with a bowl of creamy tomato soup, hearty stew, or chili.
- Cheese and Charcuterie: Slice and serve with your favorite cheeses, cured meats, and pickles.
FAQs About the Easy No-Knead Bread Recipe
1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can. Just dissolve the active dry yeast in the water before adding it to the dry ingredients. The rise time may also be slightly longer.
2. Do I need a Dutch oven?
A Dutch oven creates the best crust, but if you don’t have one, try using a heavy pot with a lid or place a tray of water in the oven to create steam.
3. How should I store the bread?
Store your no-knead bread in a paper bag or wrapped in a towel at room temperature. Avoid plastic bags as they trap moisture, softening the crust.
4. Can I freeze the bread?
Yes, this bread freezes well. Wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in the freezer for up to three months.
Time for the Easy No-Knead Bread Recipe
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Resting/Rising Time: 12 to 18 hours
- Baking Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: About 13-19 hours, depending on rise time