This quick no-knead bread recipe is perfect for those who want fresh, homemade bread without the hassle of kneading. Using just a few basic ingredients, you can create a crusty, artisan-style loaf in your own kitchen.
The process is simple and requires minimal hands-on time, making it an ideal choice for beginners and busy home cooks alike.
The Art of No-Knead Bread
No-knead bread has gained popularity for its simplicity and the delightful results it yields.
This method allows anyone to bake a rustic loaf without the need for extensive kneading techniques.
The process is straightforward, making it accessible for both novice bakers and those short on time.
Why Choose a Dutch Oven?
Baking in a Dutch oven is a game changer for bread enthusiasts.
The heavy lid traps steam, creating a moist environment that helps the dough rise beautifully.
This technique results in a crust that is both crispy and golden, while the interior remains soft and airy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this no-knead bread requires just a handful of ingredients.
All-purpose flour, salt, instant yeast, and warm water come together to form the dough.
The simplicity of these components allows the natural flavors to shine through, resulting in a loaf that is both satisfying and wholesome.
The Magic of Time
One of the unique aspects of this recipe is the long resting period.
Allowing the dough to sit for 12 to 18 hours develops the flavor and texture, making it worth the wait.
This extended fermentation process is what gives no-knead bread its characteristic taste and airy crumb.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, this bread is perfect for a variety of occasions.
Serve it warm with a small bowl of olive oil for dipping, enhancing the experience with rich flavors.
It pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or simply enjoyed on its own.
Storage and Freshness
To keep your no-knead bread fresh, store it in a paper bag at room temperature.
This method allows the crust to remain crisp while preventing the interior from becoming too dry.
For longer storage, consider freezing slices and toasting them directly from the freezer for a quick treat.
Easy No-Knead Bread in a Dutch Oven
This no-knead bread is baked in a Dutch oven, which helps create a steamy environment for the bread to rise beautifully. The recipe takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish and yields one large loaf.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
Instructions
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and instant yeast. Add the warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for 12-18 hours.
- Preheat the Oven: About 30 minutes before baking, place a Dutch oven (with the lid) in the oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C).
- Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen and bubbles form on the surface, turn it out onto a floured surface. With floured hands, shape it into a ball. Let it rest for about 30 minutes.
- Bake the Bread: Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Place the dough into the pot (you can line it with parchment paper for easier removal). Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the bread is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rest Time: 12-18 hours
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 12-18 hours 1 hour
- Servings: 1 loaf
- Calories: 120kcal per slice
- Fat: 0.5g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 25g