Instructions:
Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Stir them together to distribute the ingredients evenly.
Add the warm water (not too hot, around 100-110°F or 38-43°C) and mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy, sticky dough forms. There’s no need to knead—just make sure all the flour is incorporated.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it sit at room temperature (70°F or 21°C) for 12 to 18 hours. The dough will expand, become bubbly, and develop a delicious, slightly tangy flavor.
If your kitchen is cooler, you may need closer to 18 hours for a full rise. A longer rise time enhances the bread’s texture and taste.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
After rising, the dough will be sticky and soft. Lightly flour your hands and a clean surface, then gently shape the dough into a round loaf. Don’t knead—just fold the edges over a couple of times to create surface tension.
Place the dough on a piece of parchment paper and let it rest for about 30 minutes to 1 hour while you preheat the oven.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven and Dutch Oven
Set your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a Dutch oven (or a heavy oven-safe pot with a lid) inside the oven to preheat for at least 30 minutes. This helps create steam, which gives the bread a crispy crust.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Carefully transfer the dough (with the parchment paper) into the hot Dutch oven. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, remove the lid and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the crust is deep golden brown. The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and place it on a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing to allow the texture to set.
Pro Tips for the Best No-Knead Bread:
✔ Use fresh yeast for the best rise. Expired yeast may not work well.
✔ Longer rise time = more flavor. If you have the time, let it ferment for up to 18 hours.
✔ Preheat your Dutch oven for at least 30 minutes to ensure a crispy crust.
✔ For extra flavor, add herbs, garlic, or seeds to the dough.
✔ Store bread properly by wrapping it in a kitchen towel or keeping it in a bread box. Avoid plastic bags, which can soften the crust.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No kneading required – just mix and let it rise!
- Minimal ingredients – only flour, water, yeast, and salt.
- Crispy crust and soft interior – perfect bakery-style bread at home.
- Budget-friendly – costs way less than store-bought artisan bread.
- Great for beginners – anyone can make this!
This foolproof no-knead bread is perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, soups, or just enjoying with a bit of butter. Once you try it, you’ll never want to buy bread again!
Would you like to see variations, such as whole wheat or seed bread? 😊
