Make Bread Without Kneading
This recipe for No-Knead Bread is perfect if you want freshly baked bread but don’t want to put in the time and effort to knead it. It’s easy, takes little hands-on work, and yields a light, crispy loaf that matches bakery-baked artisan bread. The dough rests overnight, giving it time to organically develop taste and texture, so all you need is a little patience.
This approach promises tasty results without all the labor, whether you’re a novice bread maker or an experienced baker searching for a low-effort alternative!
Reasons to Love This Recipe
No extra equipment or kneading is needed since the dough comes together in a matter of minutes and rests overnight.
Crispy outside and soft inside: This bread has a golden, crispy outside and a soft, open-crumb inside.
Minimal ingredients: To create this bread, all you need are basic pantry goods.
Ideal for novices: This infallible approach is simple to use even if you have never cooked bread before.
Ingredients for No-Knead Bread
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
- 1 ¼ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Combine the dough
Add the yeast, flour, and salt to a large mixing basin. Using a wooden spoon or spatula to whisk, slowly pour in the heated water until the ingredients are just blended. You want the dough to be sticky and shaggy, as it will be.
2. Give the Dough Time to Relax
Let the bowl sit at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours after covering it with plastic wrap or a fresh kitchen towel. During this time, the dough will gradually rise, gaining flavor and a fluffy, light texture. When it’s ready, it should double in size and have bubbles all over it.
3. Form the dough
Lightly dust your hands and work surface with flour after the dough has rested. Gently form the dough into a round ball after turning it out onto the floured board. To preserve the air bubbles within, try to handle the dough as little as possible.
Before shaping, fold the dough over itself many times if you want a more structured loaf. But keep in mind that you don’t need to knead!
4. The Second Ascent
Place the dough seam-side down on a freshly lathered kitchen towel that has been lined with flour. For one to two hours, or when it has somewhat puffed out, cover it with another towel and let it to rise once more.
5. Get the oven ready.
Set the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) about half an hour before the second rise is complete. To heat up, put a heavy, oven-safe pot or big Dutch oven with a cover in the oven. A flawless, crusty surface will be facilitated by the pot’s high temperature.
6. Prepare the Bread
Carefully take the pot out of the oven when the dough is done and the Dutch oven is heated. Gently place the dough in the Dutch oven using the cloth; for a more rustic appearance, turn it seam-side up. The dough and the saucepan will be quite hot, so proceed with caution!
Put a cover on the pot and bake it for half an hour. After that, take off the cover and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and hollow when you tap the bottom of it.
7. Keep cool and have fun
Before slicing, carefully take the bread out of the Dutch oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least half an hour. This guarantees the optimum texture and lets the bread’s inside set.
Serving Recommendations
This bread without kneading is very adaptable and goes well with:
Jam and butter: A traditional breakfast choice.
Stews and soups are ideal for soaking up flavorful liquid.
Cheese platters: Cut it into slices and present it with your preferred olives, cured meats, and cheeses.
Sandwiches: Any sandwich filling will fit perfectly within its robust construction.
How to Make the Best No-Knead Bread
Make use of an oven-safe pot or Dutch oven: Baking the bread in a covered saucepan is essential to getting that crunchy, bakery-style crust. By retaining steam, the lid creates the perfect baking atmosphere.
Take your time resting: For the dough to acquire taste and texture, it is essential to let it rise gently for 12 to 18 hours.
Try several types of flour: For a heartier loaf, you may use whole wheat or rye flour in place of some of the all-purpose flour.
Add-ons to add diversity: To personalize your bread, add toppings like roasted garlic, olives, seeds, or dried herbs.
Concluding remarks
This No-Knead Bread is evidence that you can make a gorgeous, crusty loaf without spending hours kneading dough or being a skilled baker. A fresh, handmade bread that is suitable for any occasion may be baked with little preparation and effort. This bread will soon become a kitchen mainstay, whether you use it for sandwiches or eat it warm from the oven with butter.