Save to Pinterest A wonderfully crusty, airy artisan-style bread made with minimal effort and simple ingredients perfect for beginners and bread enthusiasts alike.
This recipe has been my go-to when I want fresh homemade bread without the fuss of kneading or complicated steps.
Ingredients
- 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour: Main dry ingredient for the dough
- 1/4 teaspoon (1 g) instant yeast: Helps the dough rise
- 1 1/4 teaspoons (8 g) salt: Adds flavor
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) lukewarm water: Activates yeast and forms dough
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, instant yeast, and salt.
- Step 2:
- Add the lukewarm water and mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy sticky dough forms.
- Step 3:
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rest at room temperature for 12–18 hours until the surface is dotted with bubbles and dough has doubled in size.
- Step 4:
- Lightly flour a work surface and turn the dough out onto it. With floured hands fold the dough over on itself once or twice. Shape it loosely into a ball.
- Step 5:
- Place dough seam-side down on a piece of parchment paper. Cover with a towel and let rest for 30–60 minutes while the oven preheats.
- Step 6:
- Place a Dutch oven (or heavy lidded pot) in the oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C) for at least 30 minutes.
- Step 7:
- Carefully remove the hot pot from the oven. Lift the dough with parchment paper and lower both into the pot. Cover with the lid.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 30 minutes (lid on) then remove the lid and bake another 15 minutes until golden brown and crusty.
- Step 9:
- Transfer bread to a wire rack and let cool completely before slicing.
Save to Pinterest My family loves gathering around this bread fresh from the oven it makes every meal special.
Notes
For added flavor mix in herbs seeds or roasted garlic before the first rise. For a chewier crust spray the dough lightly with water before baking. Pairs excellently with soups cheeses or olive oil for dipping.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Wooden spoon or spatula Dutch oven or heavy lidded pot Parchment paper Kitchen towel
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (wheat). Vegan-friendly. Always check packaging for cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.
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Enjoy the simplicity of baking artisan bread at home with this effortless recipe sure to impress every time.
Questions & Answers
- → How long should the dough rest before baking?
The dough should rest for 12 to 18 hours at room temperature, allowing bubbles to form and the dough to double in size for optimal texture.
- → What type of pot is best for baking this bread?
A heavy lidded pot like a Dutch oven works best as it traps steam, creating a crisp, golden crust.
- → Can I add flavors to the dough?
Yes, incorporating herbs, seeds, or roasted garlic before the first rise adds flavorful depth without complicated steps.
- → Why is no kneading needed for this bread?
The extended resting time allows gluten to develop naturally, eliminating the need for manual kneading and simplifying preparation.
- → How should I prepare the dough before baking?
Turn the dough onto a floured surface, fold it gently once or twice, shape into a ball, and let it rest again before baking.