Introduction
If you’ve ever wanted to bake homemade bread but thought it was too complicated, this recipe will change your mind. This no-knead bread requires no eggs, no butter, and no special equipment. It’s one of the easiest and most budget-friendly bread recipes you can make at home.
The result is a beautiful golden loaf with a soft, airy inside and a crisp crust. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or serving alongside soups and stews, this bread is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly delicious.
Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon instant yeast
1 ½ cups warm water
Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
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.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it rest at room temperature for 8–12 hours, or overnight.
Step 2: Shape the dough
After resting, the dough should be doubled in size and bubbly.
Lightly flour a surface and turn the dough out. Gently shape it into a ball without kneading.
Place the dough on parchment paper and let it rest for 30 minutes while preheating the oven.
Step 3: Bake
Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a Dutch oven (or heavy oven-safe pot with lid) inside to heat up.
Carefully transfer the dough with parchment paper into the hot pot.
Cover with lid and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until golden brown.
Step 4: Cool and serve
Remove bread from the pot and let cool on a wire rack.
Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips and Variations
Add rosemary, thyme, or garlic for extra flavor.
Swap half of the flour for whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
Sprinkle the top with seeds (sesame, sunflower, flax) before baking for texture.
Store bread at room temperature wrapped in a towel for up to 3 days, or freeze slices for longer storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Dutch oven?
No, but it helps create a crusty loaf. If you don’t have one, bake on a baking sheet with a pan of water placed on the oven rack below to create steam.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, substitute a gluten-free flour blend, though texture may vary.
Why no kneading?
The long resting time develops the gluten naturally, eliminating the need for kneading.
Conclusion
This easy no-knead bread recipe proves that you don’t need eggs, butter, or complicated steps to make bakery-quality bread at home. With just a handful of pantry ingredients and some patience, you’ll have a fresh, golden loaf that’s soft inside with the perfect crust. Once you try it, you may never go back to store-bought bread again.