Save A wonderfully crusty, airy artisan-style bread made with minimal effort and simple ingredients perfect for beginners and bread enthusiasts alike.
This no-knead bread recipe quickly became a household favorite because of how easy it is to make and the delicious crust it produces.
Ingredients
- Dough: 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
- Dough: 1/4 teaspoon (1 g) instant yeast
- Dough: 1 1/4 teaspoons (8 g) salt
- Dough: 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) lukewarm water
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, instant yeast, and salt.
- Step 2:
- Add the lukewarm water and mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy, sticky dough forms.
- Step 3:
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rest at room temperature for 12–18 hours, until the surface is dotted with bubbles and dough has doubled in size.
- Step 4:
- Lightly flour a work surface and turn the dough out onto it. With floured hands, fold the dough over on itself once or twice. Shape it loosely into a ball.
- Step 5:
- Place dough seam-side down on a piece of parchment paper. Cover with a towel and let rest for 30–60 minutes while the oven preheats.
- Step 6:
- Place a Dutch oven (or heavy lidded pot) in the oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C) for at least 30 minutes.
- Step 7:
- Carefully remove the hot pot from the oven. Lift the dough with parchment paper and lower both into the pot. Cover with the lid.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 30 minutes (lid on), then remove the lid and bake another 15 minutes, until golden brown and crusty.
- Step 9:
- Transfer bread to a wire rack and let cool completely before slicing.
Save Baking this bread turned into a fun tradition with my family, filling our home with a warm, comforting aroma.
Notes
For added flavor, mix in herbs, seeds, or roasted garlic before the first rise. For a chewier crust, spray the dough lightly with water before baking. Pairs excellently with soups, cheeses, or olive oil for dipping.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, Wooden spoon or spatula, Dutch oven or heavy lidded pot, Parchment paper, Kitchen towel
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (wheat). Vegan-friendly. Always check packaging for cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.
Save 
This easy no-knead bread is perfect for anyone wanting homemade artisan bread without the fuss.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What makes this bread crusty?
Baking in a preheated Dutch oven traps steam, which helps develop a crisp, golden crust while keeping the interior moist.
- → Can I add flavors to the dough?
Yes, incorporating herbs, seeds, or roasted garlic before the first rise adds extra aroma and taste.
- → Is kneading necessary for this dough?
No kneading is needed; the long resting period allows gluten to develop naturally for structure and texture.
- → How long should the dough rest?
The dough requires 12 to 18 hours at room temperature, letting bubbles form and the dough to double in size.
- → What tools do I need for baking?
A large mixing bowl, wooden spoon or spatula, Dutch oven or heavy lidded pot, parchment paper, and kitchen towel are essential.