Quick Description:
This effortless No Knead Bread recipe produces a beautifully crisp, golden crust and a soft, chewy center — all with minimal effort! Perfect for beginners and busy bakers alike, this recipe requires no kneading, just time and patience.
🕒 Servings and Timing:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus rising time)
- First Rise: 12–18 hours
- Second Rise: 1 hour
- Bake Time: 40–45 minutes
- Total Time: ~13–20 hours
- Servings: 1 large loaf (~10–12 slices)
🔍 Nutritional Info (Per Slice – Approximate):
- Calories: ~130
- Carbs: ~25g
- Fat: ~0.5g
- Protein: ~4g
- (varies depending on size of loaf and flour used)
📋 Ingredients List:
For the Dough:
- 3 cups bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast (rapid rise yeast)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1½ cups warm water
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, yeast, and salt.
- Slowly pour in warm water, stirring with a wooden spoon until a sticky, shaggy dough forms.
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise at room temperature for 12–18 hours, until bubbly and doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape the Dough
- Lightly flour a large sheet of parchment paper.
- Gently turn the dough out onto the paper.
- Sprinkle the top with a little flour and, using the parchment overhang to help, shape the dough into a rough ball. (No kneading needed!)
- Cover with plastic wrap, a lightly damp tea towel, or an upside-down bowl.
- Let it rise for about 1 hour.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
- About 30 minutes before baking, place a Dutch oven (3½ quart or larger) with the lid into your oven.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) with the pot inside.
Step 4: Bake the Bread
- Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven.
- Lift the dough (using the parchment paper) and place it into the pot.
- Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Finish Baking Uncovered
- Remove the lid and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, until the bread is deep golden brown and crusty.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
- Lift the bread out using the parchment and transfer it to a wire rack.
- Let cool completely before slicing for best texture.
💡 Flavor Tips & Customizations:
- Add Herbs: Mix in rosemary, thyme, or garlic for extra flavor.
- Cheese Twist: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan before rising.
- Whole Wheat Version: Replace up to 1 cup of the flour with whole wheat flour.
- Seeded Top: Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top before baking.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with butter, honey, or jam for breakfast.
- Pair with soups, chili, or salads for hearty meals.
- Slice for sandwiches or make a gourmet grilled cheese!
❄️ Storage & Reheat Tips:
- Store: Wrap in a clean kitchen towel or paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Crisp slices in a toaster or warm the loaf in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp.
❓ FAQs:
Q: Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
A: Yes! Just activate it first by mixing with the warm water and letting it foam for 5–10 minutes before combining with the flour and salt.
Q: My dough is really wet. Is that okay?
A: Yes, this dough should be sticky and loose! It creates the signature open crumb and chewy texture.
📝 Optional Note:
This No Knead Bread is proof that sometimes less is more. With just four ingredients and a little time, you can create bakery-quality bread at home without stress.
📣 Call-to-Action:
Tried this No Knead Bread? Show me your beautiful bakes or your favorite flavor add-ins! 🍞✨
