If you’ve ever dreamed of baking bread but felt intimidated by the kneading process, this no-knead bread recipe is here to change your life! With just four simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a golden, crusty loaf with a soft, airy interior that rivals artisanal bakery bread.
Perfect for beginners, this recipe is forgiving, flexible, and incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re serving it with soup, making sandwiches, or enjoying a simple slice with butter, this bread will be your new go-to!
Ingredients (8 servings):
- 3 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, instant yeast, and sea salt. Gradually pour in the warm water while stirring with a wooden spoon. Mix until the dough comes together into a sticky, loose ball. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let the dough rise at room temperature for 12-18 hours.
2. Shape the Dough:
After the first rise, transfer the dough onto a well-floured piece of parchment paper. Sprinkle some flour on top of the dough to make handling easier. Using the edges of the parchment paper, gently shape the dough into a rough ball. Don’t worry about making it perfect—there’s no need for kneading!
3. Second Rise:
Cover the dough with plastic wrap, a damp tea towel, or an upside-down glass bowl. Let it rise for another hour.
4. Preheat the Oven:
Place a 3 ½-quart Dutch oven with its lid into the oven and preheat to 450°F.
5. Bake the Bread:
Carefully remove the Dutch oven from the oven (it will be very hot). Using the parchment paper, lift the dough and place it into the Dutch oven. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Finish Baking:
Remove the lid and continue baking for 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is beautifully golden brown. Carefully lift the bread out of the pot using the parchment paper and transfer it to a cooling rack.
7. Cool the Bread:
For the best texture and flavor, let the bread cool for 1-2 hours before slicing.
Tips and Notes:
- Plan ahead: The dough requires 12-18 hours to rise. If needed, you can refrigerate it to slow down the rise time.
- Second rise: While optional, this step ensures a lighter and airier loaf.
- Equipment: A 3 ½-quart Dutch oven is perfect for this recipe, helping the bread hold its shape and bake evenly.
Why This No Knead Bread is a Must-Try
This recipe simplifies bread-making without sacrificing quality. You’ll love the crisp crust, soft interior, and rustic look. Plus, with no kneading required, it’s ideal for anyone short on time or baking experience. Give it a try and impress your family with homemade bread today!
Have you made this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below! 🍞
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