No-knead bread is an easy homemade artisan-style loaf with a crispy crust and soft, airy interior. Made with minimal effort and long fermentation, it delivers bakery-quality results without kneading.
No-Knead Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon instant yeast
- 1½ cups warm water
- Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil (for flavor)
- Optional: cornmeal or extra flour for dusting
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast.
Add warm water and mix with a spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms. No kneading is needed.
Step 2: First Rise (Long Fermentation)
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean cloth.
Let the dough rest at room temperature for 12–18 hours (overnight is ideal).
The dough will become bubbly and double in size.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Lightly flour a surface and gently turn out the dough.
Do not punch it down aggressively—handle gently to preserve air bubbles.
Fold it over itself a few times and shape into a round loaf.
Step 4: Second Rise
Place the dough on parchment paper and cover it with a towel.
Let it rest for 30–60 minutes while the oven heats.
Baking Instructions
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 230°C (450°F).
Place a Dutch oven or heavy lidded pot inside while preheating.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Carefully place the dough (with parchment paper) into the hot pot.
Cover with lid and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 7: Bake Uncovered
Remove the lid and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the crust is deep golden brown.
Step 8: Cool
Remove the bread and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with butter, olive oil, soups, stews, or use for sandwiches and toast.
Tips for Best Results
- Long resting time is key to flavor and texture.
- Do not skip preheating the pot for a crispy crust.
- Use parchment paper for easy transfer.
- Allow full cooling before slicing to avoid gummy texture.
No-knead bread is a simple yet impressive recipe that produces a rustic, bakery-style loaf with minimal effort and maximum flavor.