Here’s an easy and straightforward No Knead Bread recipe with a crisp, golden crust and tender interior that’s perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. The beauty of this bread lies in its simplicity – you only need a few ingredients and minimal effort to achieve bakery-quality bread at home.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (around 110°F/45°C)
Instructions:
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, and salt.
- Add water: Slowly pour in the warm water and stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. It will look a little rough, but don’t worry – it’s supposed to.
- Let it rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it sit at room temperature for 12-18 hours. The dough should double in size and be bubbly on the surface.
- Preheat the oven: Once the dough is ready, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a Dutch oven or a heavy pot with a lid inside to heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Shape the dough: Lightly flour your hands and a clean surface. Gently shape the dough into a ball (don’t knead it). Cover with a towel and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
- Bake the bread: Carefully remove the heated Dutch oven and place the dough inside (you can use parchment paper to transfer it easily). Cover the pot with the lid and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for another 15 minutes, until the crust is golden brown.
- Cool and enjoy: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing.
This no knead bread recipe creates a rustic, crusty loaf with minimal effort. The extended rise time gives the bread a lovely, slightly tangy flavor. You can experiment with different flours or add-ins like seeds and herbs for variety. Enjoy your fresh homemade loaf!
