Best Easy No-Knead Bread

A wonderfully crusty, airy artisan-style bread made with minimal effort and simple ingredients perfect for beginners and bread enthusiasts alike

This bread quickly became my go-to when I wanted fresh homemade bread without all the fuss

Ingredients

• Dough: 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
• Dough: 1/4 teaspoon (1 g) instant yeast
• Dough: 1 1/4 teaspoons (8 g) salt
• Dough: 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) lukewarm water

Instructions

Make fresh ice for iced coffee, cocktails, chilling ingredients, and keeping drinks cold while cooking.

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Step 1:

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, instant yeast, and salt

Step 2:

Add the lukewarm water and mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy, sticky dough forms

Step 3:

Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel Let it rest at room temperature for 12–18 hours until the surface is dotted with bubbles and dough has doubled in size

Step 4:

Lightly flour a work surface and turn the dough out onto it With floured hands fold the dough over on itself once or twice Shape it loosely into a ball

Step 5:

Place dough seam-side down on a piece of parchment paper Cover with a towel and let rest for 30–60 minutes while the oven preheats

Step 6:

Place a Dutch oven (or heavy lidded pot) in the oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C) for at least 30 minutes

Step 7:

Carefully remove the hot pot from the oven Lift the dough with parchment paper and lower both into the pot Cover with the lid

Step 8:

Bake for 30 minutes (lid on) then remove the lid and bake another 15 minutes until golden brown and crusty

Step 9:

Transfer bread to a wire rack and let cool completely before slicing

Make fresh ice for iced coffee, cocktails, chilling ingredients, and keeping drinks cold while cooking.

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Make fresh ice for iced coffee, cocktails, chilling ingredients, and keeping drinks cold while cooking.

Check price on Amazon

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My family loves gathering around this fresh bread for weekend breakfasts

Notes

For added flavor mix in herbs seeds or roasted garlic before the first rise For a chewier crust spray the dough lightly with water before baking Pairs excellently with soups cheeses or olive oil for dipping

Required Tools

Large mixing bowl Wooden spoon or spatula Dutch oven or heavy lidded pot Parchment paper Kitchen towel

Allergen Information

Contains gluten (wheat) Vegan-friendly Always check packaging for cross-contamination if allergies are a concern

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Whisk eggs, batters, sauces, and cream smoothly for baking, cooking, and everyday meal prep.

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This simple bread will become a staple in your kitchen offering delicious results with minimal fuss

Questions & Answers About This Recipe

→ Why does the dough need such a long resting time?

The extended rest allows natural fermentation, developing flavor and creating an airy texture without kneading.

→ Can I add flavor variations to the loaf?

Yes, herbs, seeds, or roasted garlic can be mixed in before resting to enhance flavor.

→ What is the purpose of baking in a Dutch oven?

The enclosed pot traps steam, which helps form a crisp, golden crust while keeping the crumb tender.

→ How should I handle the dough after resting?

Lightly flour your hands and fold the dough gently to shape it into a loose ball before the final rise.

→ Is this loaf suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, it contains no animal products and works well for vegan-friendly diets.

→ How do I store leftover bread to maintain freshness?

Keep the loaf in a breathable container or paper bag at room temperature to preserve crust texture and freshness.