Easy no-knead homemade bread recipe with a soft interior and crispy crust. Simple ingredients and minimal effort create delicious bakery-style bread at home.
No-knead homemade bread is a simple and rustic bread that requires minimal effort and no kneading. The dough slowly rises over several hours, developing flavor and a soft interior with a crisp crust. This method is perfect for beginners and produces bakery-style bread at home.
Ingredients
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3 cups all-purpose flour
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1¼ teaspoons salt
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½ teaspoon instant yeast or active dry yeast
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1½ cups warm water (not hot)
Optional:
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1 tablespoon olive oil for extra flavor
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Extra flour for dusting
Step 1: Mix the Dough
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In a large mixing bowl combine the flour, salt, and yeast.
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Stir the dry ingredients together until evenly mixed.
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Pour in the warm water.
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Mix with a spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms.
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Make sure there are no dry flour patches. The dough will look rough and sticky.
Step 2: First Rise
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Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid.
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Let the dough rest at room temperature for 12–18 hours.
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During this time the dough will rise and develop bubbles.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
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Lightly flour a clean work surface.
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Turn the dough out onto the floured surface.
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Sprinkle a little flour on top of the dough.
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Gently fold the dough over itself 2–3 times to form a rough ball.
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Do not knead the dough; just shape it lightly.
Step 4: Second Rise
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Place the dough on a piece of parchment paper or in a lightly floured bowl.
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Cover with a kitchen towel.
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Let it rest for 30–60 minutes while the oven heats.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
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Preheat the oven to 230°C (450°F).
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Place a heavy pot with a lid (such as a Dutch oven) inside the oven while it preheats for about 30 minutes.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
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Carefully remove the hot pot from the oven.
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Place the dough (with parchment paper if using) into the pot.
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Cover with the lid.
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Bake for 30 minutes with the lid on.
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Remove the lid and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
Step 7: Cool the Bread
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Remove the bread from the pot.
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Place it on a wire rack.
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Let it cool for at least 20–30 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve warm with butter or olive oil.
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Use it for sandwiches or toast.
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Pair with soups, stews, or salads.
Tips for Best Results
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The long rising time helps develop flavor and texture.
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Use a covered pot to trap steam, which creates a crisp crust.
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Do not slice the bread while it is too hot; this helps maintain its structure.