Easy No-Knead Homemade Bread

No eggs, no butter, no kneading — just a few basic ingredients and a beautifully soft, fluffy loaf with a golden crust!

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 packet (2¼ tsp) instant yeast
• 1½ cups warm water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for a softer crust)

Instructions

1. Mix the dough
   In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Pour in the warm water and stir until a sticky dough forms.
2. First rise
   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a towel and let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
3. Shape the dough
   Lightly flour your hands and gently shape the dough into a loaf or round ball. No kneading needed.
4. Second rise
   Place the dough onto a parchment-lined baking tray or into a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
5. Bake
   Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
6. Cool
   Let cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Tips

• For a crispier crust, place a small oven-safe dish of hot water in the oven while baking.
• Add garlic powder, herbs, cheese, or seeds for extra flavor.
• Best enjoyed warm with butter, soup, or sandwiches.