Name: No-Knead Bread Recipe
Prep time: 18 h
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 18 h 30 min
Yield: 10
Ingredients: 3¼ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp fine sea salt; ½ tsp active dry yeast; 1½ cups warm water

This effortless, no-knead bread recipe brings the joy of fresh, homemade bread within everyone's reach. It's a simple recipe that doesn't require any special equipment or expertise. The ingredients are basic pantry staples, and the method, while time-consuming, is mostly hands-off. The result is a crusty, rustic loaf with a soft, airy interior—perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with a little butter and jam.

Photos of No-Knead Bread Recipe

The ingredients for this no-knead bread recipe are likely already in your kitchen. All-purpose flour, sea salt, and active dry yeast are common pantry staples. However, if you don't have fine sea salt, it would be worth picking up at the supermarket. It dissolves more evenly in the dough than coarse salts, delivering a consistent flavor throughout the loaf. Additionally, ensure you have active dry yeast, not instant or rapid rise yeast, as the longer fermentation period is key to developing the bread's flavor and texture.

Ingredients for Effortless No-Knead Bread

All-purpose flour: This is the bulk of your bread. It provides the structure and crumb, or interior, of your loaf.

Fine sea salt: Fine sea salt is important for flavor. It dissolves evenly into the dough, ensuring a well-seasoned loaf.

Active dry yeast: This is what makes the bread rise. It eats the sugars in the flour and releases carbon dioxide, creating the airy texture of the bread.

Warm water: The water activates the yeast and helps form the dough. The water should be warm but not hot to touch.

One reader, Carri Kaufman says:

This no-knead bread recipe is a game-changer! It's so easy to make and the result is a delicious, crusty loaf with a soft interior. I love how little effort it takes to make such a fantastic bread. It's become a staple in my kitchen!

Carri Kaufman

Techniques Required for Making No-Knead Bread

How to mix the dough: Combine the flour, salt, and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Add warm water and stir until the dough is evenly mixed and no large flour streaks remain.

How to let the dough rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours.

How to shape the dough: Transfer the dough to a well-floured surface. Fold the dough on top of itself, pulling the outer edges up and into the center a few times until the dough feels tighter and holds its shape to form a round dough ball.

How to transfer the dough to the dutch oven: Use oven mitts to remove the dutch oven from the oven. Lift the edges of the parchment to carefully transfer the dough ball to the dutch oven.

How to check for doneness: After baking for 30 minutes, carefully remove the lid and bake for an additional 10 to 20 minutes until the crust of the bread reaches your desired level of doneness.

How to cool the bread: After removing from the oven, uncover and transfer the bread to a wire cooling rack. Cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

How To Make No Knead Bread

This crusty no-knead bread is easy to make and comes with two variations you can choose from, the traditional overnight rise and the faster and a half rise.

Preparation: 18 hours

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 18 hours 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3¼cupsall-purpose flour,(425 grams)
2tspfine sea salt
½tspactive dry yeast
1½cupswarm water,(about 110 degrees F)

Instructions

Stir together the flour, salt, and yeast in a large mixing bowl until combined. Add in the warm water and stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough is evenly mixed and no large flour streaks remain.
Let the dough rise. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or bees wrap, and let the dough rest at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours.
Transfer the dough to a well-floured surface. Fold the dough on top of itself, pulling the outer edges up and into the center a few times until the dough feels a bit tighter and holds its shape to form a round dough ball.
Lightly flour the top of the dough ball and then carefully flip it upside-down onto a piece of parchment paper, so that the smooth side is on top. Use your hands to shape the ball into an even circle.
Lightly flour the top of the dough ball, then loosely cover it with plastic wrap or bees wrap to rest while the oven heats.
Place the Dutch oven inside of your oven then set the oven to 450 degrees F. Wait for 20 to 30 minutes for the oven to heat while the dough continues to rest.
Use oven mitts to remove the Dutch oven from the oven. Lift the edges of the parchment to carefully transfer the dough ball to the Dutch oven.
Cover with the Dutch oven lid and bake for 30 minutes then carefully remove the lid and bake for 10 to 20 more minutes until the crust of the bread reaches your desired level of doneness.
Remove from the oven, uncover, and then carefully lift up the edges of the parchment to transfer the bread to a wire cooling rack. Cool for at least 30 minutes then slice, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 148.52kcal
Fat: 0.41g
Saturated Fat: 0.06g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.04g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.17g
Carbohydrates: 31.08g
Fiber: 1.15g
Sugar: 0.11g
Protein: 4.28g
Sodium: 177.61mg
Calcium: 7.33mg
Potassium: 45.41mg
Iron: 1.89mg
Vitamin C: 0.00mg

Technique Tip for Perfect No-Knead Bread

To ensure your bread has a crispy crust and a soft, airy interior, it's crucial to use a Dutch oven. The Dutch oven traps steam from the dough, creating a moist environment that helps the bread rise and develop a crispy crust. If you don't have a Dutch oven, you can use any heavy pot with a tight-fitting lid. Just make sure it's safe to use at high temperatures.

Time-Saving Tips for Effortless No-Knead Bread

Prep ahead: Mix the dry ingredients the night before and store them in an airtight container. This way, when you're ready to bake, you can simply add the water and proceed with the recipe.

Use a Dutch oven: Baking the bread in a preheated Dutch oven creates the perfect steamy environment for a crispy crust and a soft interior, eliminating the need for a separate water bath in the oven.

Parchment paper: Placing the dough on parchment paper makes it easier to transfer to the hot Dutch oven without risking burns or deflating the dough.

Check for doneness: Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the bread has reached an internal temperature of 200-210°F for the perfect texture and doneness.

Experiment with flavors: Add herbs, spices, or even cheese to the dough for a unique and flavorful twist on this classic recipe.

Substitute Ingredients For No-Knead Bread Recipe

all-purpose flour - Substitute with bread flour: Bread flour has a higher protein content, which will result in a chewier and more structured loaf.
fine sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a coarser texture, so you may need to adjust the amount used slightly to achieve the desired level of saltiness.
active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be added directly to the dry ingredients without needing to be activated in warm water first, which can save time in the recipe.
warm water - Substitute with room temperature water: Using room temperature water will slow down the fermentation process slightly, allowing for a longer, more flavorful rise.

Best Way to Present Effortless No-Knead Bread

Artisanal bread loaf: Present the bread loaf on a rustic wooden board, accompanied by a small dish of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the bread with a generous amount of freshly chopped rosemary and thyme to add a pop of color and aroma.
Elevate with flavored butter: Serve the bread with a side of compound butter, such as roasted garlic or sundried tomato, elegantly piped onto a small dish.
Accompany with artisanal cheeses: Pair the bread with a selection of aged cheddar, gouda, and brie, elegantly arranged on a marble serving board.
Serve with charcuterie: Present the bread alongside an assortment of prosciutto, salami, and coppa, beautifully arranged on a wooden charcuterie board.
Create a bread basket: Arrange the bread slices in a woven bread basket, lined with a linen napkin for an inviting and communal presentation.
Incorporate bread artistry: Score the bread with intricate designs or patterns, showcasing the craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Accompany with flavored oils: Offer an array of infused oils, such as chili-infused or truffle-infused, in small dipping bowls to enhance the bread's flavors.
Present with seasonal fruits: Serve the bread with a selection of fresh figs, grapes, and sliced pears, artfully arranged on a wooden platter.
Elevate with edible flowers: Garnish the bread with delicate edible flowers, such as pansies or nasturtiums, for a visually stunning and elegant touch.

Essential Tools for Making No-Knead Bread

Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the ingredients and allowing the dough to rise.
Wooden spoon or spatula: These are used to stir the dough until it is evenly mixed and no large flour streaks remain.
Plastic wrap or bees wrap: This is used to cover the bowl and let the dough rest at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours.
Parchment paper: Parchment paper is used to transfer the dough to the Dutch oven and to prevent sticking.
Dutch oven: A Dutch oven is used for baking the bread and creating the perfect crust.
Oven mitts: These are essential for safely handling the hot Dutch oven.
Wire cooling rack: A wire cooling rack is used to cool the bread after baking.

How to Store and Freeze No-Knead Bread

Once the bread has completely cooled, store it in a plastic bag or bread box at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep the crust crispy, avoid storing the bread in the refrigerator, as this can cause it to become soggy.
If you want to freeze the bread, wait until it has cooled completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped bread in a freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen bread, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for several hours or overnight. You can also reheat the bread in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to restore its crispy crust and warm, soft interior.
For optimal freshness, consider slicing the bread before freezing it. This way, you can easily remove and thaw only the number of slices you need without having to thaw the entire loaf. To freeze individual slices, place a piece of parchment paper between each slice before wrapping the stack tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
If you find yourself with stale bread, don't throw it away! Instead, cut it into cubes and use it to make croutons, breadcrumbs, or even a delicious bread pudding. Stale bread is also perfect for making French toast or bruschetta.

How to Reheat Leftover No-Knead Bread

The best way to reheat leftover no-knead bread is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the bread on a baking sheet. If the bread is a bit stale, you can sprinkle a few drops of water on top to help it regain some moisture. Bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the bread is heated through and the crust is crispy.
Another option is to use a toaster oven. Slice the bread to your desired thickness and place it in the toaster oven. Toast for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is heated through and the edges are slightly crispy. This method works best for smaller pieces of bread or if you only need a few slices.
If you're in a hurry, you can also use the microwave to reheat your no-knead bread. Place the bread on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 10-15 seconds. If the bread is still not warm enough, continue heating it in 5-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Keep in mind that microwaving the bread may cause it to become slightly soggy.
For a crispy crust and soft interior, you can use a combination of the microwave and the oven. First, microwave the bread for 10-15 seconds to warm it up. Then, place the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to crisp up the crust.
If you have a panini press or a sandwich maker, you can use it to reheat your no-knead bread while giving it a delightful crunch. Slice the bread, place it in the press, and heat it for 2-3 minutes, or until it's heated through and the exterior is crispy.

Is Making No-Knead Bread at Home Cost-Effective?

This effortless no-knead bread recipe is incredibly cost-effective for a household. With just a few simple ingredients, including flour, yeast, and salt, this recipe yields a delicious loaf of bread at a fraction of the cost of store-bought options. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $3, making it an economical choice. The convenience and affordability of this recipe make it a standout option for home bakers. I would rate this recipe a solid 9 out of 10 for its cost-effectiveness and delicious results.

Is No-Knead Bread Healthy or Unhealthy?

This no-knead bread recipe is relatively healthy, as it primarily consists of simple ingredients like flour, salt, yeast, and water. The recipe does not include any added sugars, unhealthy fats, or artificial additives, which is a positive aspect. However, the recipe relies heavily on all-purpose flour, which is a refined grain that lacks the nutritional benefits of whole grain flours.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, which is higher in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Start by replacing 25% of the all-purpose flour and gradually increase the proportion of whole wheat flour in future batches to find the right balance for your taste preferences.
Experiment with adding other nutritious ingredients to the dough, such as seeds (e.g., chia, flax, or sunflower), nuts (e.g., walnuts or almonds), or dried fruits (e.g., raisins or cranberries). These additions can boost the bread's fiber, healthy fat, and antioxidant content.
Pair the bread with nutrient-dense toppings or spreads, such as mashed avocado, hummus, or nut butter, to create a more well-rounded and satisfying meal or snack.

Editor's Thoughts on This No-Knead Bread Recipe

This effortless no-knead bread recipe is a simple and foolproof way to create delicious homemade bread. The long fermentation time allows for the development of complex flavors, while the minimal hands-on time makes it perfect for busy schedules. The crust is beautifully golden and crisp, while the interior is soft and chewy. The method of baking the bread in a preheated Dutch oven helps to create a perfect crust and crumb. This recipe is a wonderful introduction to bread baking for beginners and a convenient option for experienced bakers. Enjoy the process and the delightful aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen.

Enhance Your No-Knead Bread Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with the no-knead bread.

Grilled Vegetable Platter: A colorful assortment of grilled vegetables, seasoned to perfection and served alongside the delicious no-knead bread.

Savory Herb Buttered Corn: Fresh corn on the cob, slathered in savory herb butter, makes a delightful side dish to accompany the no-knead bread.

Alternative Recipes Similar to No-Knead Bread

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: A delicious and hearty dish that combines ground meat, rice, and flavorful seasonings all stuffed inside colorful bell peppers. Perfect for a satisfying meal.

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a rich and creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken and a luscious alfredo sauce. A comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion.

Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: A refreshing and vibrant salad that combines a variety of fresh fruits with a zesty honey-lime dressing. Perfect for a light and healthy dessert or side dish.

Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup: Warm up with a comforting bowl of hearty beef and vegetable soup. Packed with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and savory broth, this soup is a satisfying meal on its own.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Effortless No-Knead Bread

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then topped with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. They're the perfect bite-sized appetizer for any gathering.

Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil are threaded onto skewers and drizzled with a balsamic glaze for a simple yet elegant appetizer. These caprese skewers are a refreshing and colorful addition to any party spread.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a velvety, rich chocolate mousse that melts in your mouth with every spoonful. The perfect balance of sweetness and decadence, this dessert is sure to satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Apple Pie: Savor the warm, comforting flavors of a classic apple pie, with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this timeless dessert is a delightful treat for any occasion.

Why trust this No-Knead Bread Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a foolproof, artisan-quality bread with minimal effort. The slow fermentation process develops complex flavors and a chewy texture. The active dry yeast ensures a reliable rise, while the fine sea salt enhances the bread's taste. The all-purpose flour provides the perfect structure for a rustic, crusty loaf. With just four simple ingredients, this recipe offers a delightful, homemade bread that's bound to impress. Trust the process and savor the rewarding results.

Want to share your experience with this No-Knead Bread Recipe or have any tips to make it even better? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum and let's talk about all things no-knead bread!

FAQ:

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in this recipe. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour may result in a denser texture and slightly different flavor.

Can I add herbs or other ingredients to the dough?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the bread by adding herbs, garlic, cheese, or any other ingredients to the dough before letting it rise. Get creative and experiment with different flavors.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast. However, you may need to adjust the amount used, as instant yeast is typically more potent. A general rule of thumb is to use 25% less instant yeast than active dry yeast.

Can I bake the bread in a regular baking dish if I don't have a dutch oven?

While a dutch oven is ideal for achieving a crispy crust and soft interior, you can still bake the bread in a regular baking dish. Just make sure to preheat the dish along with the oven and create steam by placing a small pan of water in the oven to mimic the effect of a dutch oven.

Can I refrigerate the dough to bake later?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the initial rise. Simply cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to bake, proceed with shaping the dough and allow it to come to room temperature before baking.