- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil (for added richness)
- 1–2 tablespoons honey or sugar (for a hint of sweetness)
- Seeds, herbs, or nuts (e.g., rosemary, sunflower seeds, or walnuts)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast.
- Add the warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms. The dough will be sticky—this is normal.
- Optional: Stir in olive oil, honey, or any mix-ins like herbs or seeds.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, a damp towel, or a lid and let it rest at room temperature for 12–18 hours. The dough will rise and develop bubbles on the surface.
2. Shape the Dough
- After the dough has risen, lightly flour a clean surface and your hands.
- Gently turn the dough out onto the floured surface and fold it over itself a few times to shape it into a loose ball.
- Place the dough ball seam-side down on a piece of parchment paper or a lightly floured kitchen towel. Let it rest uncovered for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Oven
- Place a Dutch oven (with lid) in the oven and preheat it to 450°F (230°C) for at least 30 minutes. This ensures the pot is hot enough to create steam, which helps form a crispy crust.
4. Bake the Bread
- Carefully remove the preheated Dutch oven from the oven and transfer the dough (using the parchment paper for easy handling) into the pot.
- Cover the pot with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
5. Cool and Enjoy
- Transfer the bread to a wire rack and let it cool completely before slicing (this helps the interior set).
- Enjoy every bite of this crusty, chewy, and utterly delicious Simple No-Knead Bread!
- Perfect as a standalone treat or paired with soups, salads, or spreads.
Tips for Success
- Use a Kitchen Scale: Measuring flour by weight ensures accuracy (about 400g of flour for this recipe).
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: The long fermentation develops flavor and improves texture.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Fold in olives, roasted garlic, or dried herbs during shaping for extra flair.
- Store Leftovers: Store in a paper bag or bread box at room temperature for up to 3 days. Freeze slices for longer storage.
Why This Recipe Works
This Simple No-Knead Bread relies on time and gentle handling to produce a beautifully textured loaf with minimal effort. The long fermentation allows the yeast to develop complex flavors, while baking in a covered Dutch oven creates the perfect environment for a crispy crust and soft interior. Whether served as a standalone bread or customized with your favorite mix-ins, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity.
Conclusion: A Bread Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something crusty and chewy, looking for a way to simplify bread-making, or simply want to indulge in a homemade treat, this Simple No-Knead Bread is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and practical preparation make it a standout recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, its adaptability means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this bread might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨
