Easy Bread Recipe (No-Knead!)
It’s snowing here in the Northeast.
Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen.
This classic easy bread recipe is simple, foolproof, and perfect for beginners.
With minimal ingredients and no kneading required, you’ll soon have a warm, crusty loaf ready to toast up or dip into your Sunday Sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Beginner-Friendly: No kneading or fancy equipment required.
Minimal Ingredients: Just four pantry staples.
Golden Crust, Soft Interior: Perfect texture and taste.
Versatile: Great for sandwiches, toasts, or dipping.
Shopping List:
All-purpose flour
Active dry yeast
Salt
Warm water
Ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
Instructions:
Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Mix Ingredients: Add flour and salt to the bowl and stir with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.
First Rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Let the dough rise at room temperature for 12-18 hours (overnight works best) until it doubles in size and bubbles form.
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a Dutch oven or oven-safe pot (with lid) inside to heat for 30 minutes.
Shape the Dough: Lightly flour your hands and gently shape the dough into a ball. Transfer it to a piece of parchment paper.
Bake: Carefully remove the hot pot from the oven, lift the parchment with the dough, and place it inside the pot. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
Uncover and Finish: Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!
Pro Tips:
Check Water Temperature: Water that’s too hot can kill the yeast. Aim for around 110°F (warm, not scalding).
Add Flavor: Mix in garlic, herbs, or shredded cheese for a flavorful twist.
Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer shelf life.
Fun Alterations:
Whole Wheat Bread: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
Seeded Loaf: Sprinkle sesame or sunflower seeds on top before baking.
Olive & Rosemary Bread: Mix in 1/2 cup chopped olives and fresh rosemary for a Mediterranean flavor.
Sweet Twist: Add 1 tbsp sugar and 1/2 cup raisins for a subtly sweet bread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes! Use the same amount of instant yeast, and there’s no need to activate it in water first. Mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
Why let the dough rise overnight?
A long rise time develops the flavor and texture, creating that artisan bread feel.
What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?
Use any oven-safe pot with a tight-fitting lid or place the dough on a baking sheet and cover it with an inverted oven-safe bowl.
This easy bread recipe is your ticket to warm, homemade goodness without the fuss.
Perfect for any skill level, it's bound to become your go-to recipe for fresh bread.
Save it, bake it, and share the love!
