The Viral No-Knead Bread Everyone’s Making
This simple homemade bread recipe requires just four ingredients: flour, salt, instant yeast, and warm water. It’s easy to make and results in a soft, fluffy loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toasts, or enjoying with butter.
Ingredients
- 3 cups 360g all-purpose or bread flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 ½ cups 350ml warm water
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast. Slowly add the warm water and stir with a spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let it sit at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
- Once the dough has risen and is bubbly, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a Dutch oven or a heavy oven-safe pot (with a lid) inside the oven to heat up for about 30 minutes.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
- Lightly flour your hands and work surface, then gently shape the dough into a ball. No need to knead—just shape it carefully. Place the dough on a piece of parchment paper for easy transfer.
Step 4: Bake the Bread
- Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven, place the parchment paper with the dough inside, and cover with the lid. Bake for 30 minutes covered, then remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
- Remove the bread from the pot and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy fresh or store in an airtight container for up to three days.
Notes
Pro Tips for the Best No-Knead Bread
Use Bread Flour – It gives the bread a chewier texture.
Room Temperature Matters – A warmer environment speeds up fermentation, while a cooler one slows it down.
Don’t Skip the Dutch Oven – It traps steam, creating the perfect crust.
Experiment with Flavors – Try adding rosemary, garlic, cheese, or even olives for a unique twist.
Patience is Key – The longer the dough ferments, the better the flavor!