Few things in life are more comforting than the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen. But if you’ve ever thought bread-making was complicated, this Easy No-Knead Bread Recipe will change your mind forever. With just four simple ingredients—flour, yeast, salt, and water—you can create a golden, crusty loaf that tastes like it came straight from an artisan bakery. The best part? No kneading, no eggs, no butter, and no fancy equipment required.
Why This Recipe Works
Effortless method: Time does the work for you—no kneading, no stand mixer. Minimal ingredients: Just pantry staples. Crispy outside, soft inside: The steam-trap method makes a perfect bakery-style crust. Vegan-friendly: Since it uses no eggs or butter, this bread fits many dietary needs.
Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
2 tsp salt
½ tsp instant yeast (or active dry yeast)
1 ½ cups warm water (not hot, about 110°F/45°C)
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and yeast. Add warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms. It will be sticky—this is normal. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
Step 2: Let It Rest
Leave the dough at room temperature for 12–18 hours. During this time, the yeast will slowly ferment, creating bubbles and developing flavor. The surface should be dotted with bubbles when ready.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Lightly flour a surface and your hands. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface and gently shape it into a ball. Don’t overwork it. Place it on parchment paper, cover with a towel, and let it rise for another 1–2 hours.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
While the dough rises, place a Dutch oven (or heavy oven-safe pot with a lid) inside the oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C) for at least 30 minutes.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Carefully remove the hot pot from the oven. Lift the dough with parchment paper and place it inside the pot. Cover with lid and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until golden brown and crusty.
Step 6: Cool & Enjoy
Transfer the bread to a wire rack and let cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. (This helps the inside finish setting.)
Tips for Success
Patience pays off: The long rise is key to flavor and texture. No Dutch oven? Use any heavy pot with a lid, or place an oven-safe pan of water on the bottom rack to create steam. Experiment with flour: Try replacing 1 cup of all-purpose flour with whole wheat or bread flour for different textures. Storage: Store at room temperature wrapped in a kitchen towel for 2–3 days, or freeze slices for longer.
Serving Suggestions
This bread is versatile and works with almost anything:
Slather with butter and jam for breakfast. Use for hearty sandwiches or grilled cheese. Serve with soups, stews, or pasta dishes. Toast slices and drizzle with olive oil and garlic for rustic bruschetta.
Final Thoughts
This Easy No-Knead Bread proves that anyone can bake bakery-quality bread at home—without special tools, kneading, eggs, or butter. It’s rustic, crusty, soft inside, and perfect for everyday meals or special gatherings. Once you try it, you may never go back to store-bought bread again.