Here’s the easiest, no-fuss homemade bread—no kneading, eggs, butter, or fancy ingredients! Just 4 basic pantry staples, minimal effort, and a crispy crust with a soft interior. Perfect for beginners or anyone avoiding store-bought bread.
4-Ingredient No-Knead Bread 🍞✨
Prep Time: 5 mins | Rise Time: 12-18 hrs | Bake Time: 45 mins | Makes: 1 loaf
Ingredients:
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chew)
- 1½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp instant yeast (or active dry yeast)
- 1½ cups (360ml) warm water (~100°F/38°C)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 tbsp honey/sugar (for a golden crust)
- 1 tsp herbs or garlic powder (for flavor)
Instructions:
1. Mix the Dough
- In a large bowl, whisk flour, salt, and yeast.
- Add warm water and stir until just combined (it’ll be sticky and shaggy—this is normal!).
2. Let It Rise
- Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let sit at room temperature for 12-18 hours (overnight works!). The dough will double and bubble.
3. Shape & Rest
- Scrape dough onto a floured surface. Fold edges inward to form a loose ball.
- Place on parchment paper, cover, and rest 30 mins while preheating the oven.
4. Bake
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside for 30 mins.
- Carefully transfer dough (with parchment) into the hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake:
- 30 mins covered
- 15 mins uncovered until golden brown.
5. Cool & Enjoy!
- Let cool 1 hour before slicing (if you can wait!).
Why This Bread Rules:
✅ Cheaper than store-bought (costs pennies per loaf!)
✅ No kneading, eggs, or butter—just patience!
✅ Crispy crust + airy interior (like artisan bakery bread)
✅ Customizable: Add seeds, olives, or cheese!
Pro Tips:
- For a softer crust: Brush with butter after baking.
- Storing: Keep in a paper bag for 2 days, or freeze slices for later.
- Want it faster? Use 1 tsp yeast and rise for 4-6 hours at room temp.
Say goodbye to store-bought bread—this is simplicity at its best! 😊
Need a whole-wheat version or herb-infused loaf? Ask away!