No Knead Bread is one of those magical recipes that transforms simple pantry ingredients into something extraordinary. The crust comes out golden and crackly, while the inside stays soft, airy, and irresistible. What’s even better? There’s no kneading, no fancy equipment, and no stress.

I first stumbled across this method during a busy season when baking bread the traditional way felt impossible. To my surprise, this recipe delivered bakery-quality results with almost no effort. It’s baked in a Dutch oven, which locks in steam and creates that artisan-style crust everyone loves.

If you’ve ever enjoyed comfort classics like Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings or the indulgent Creamy Mushroom Soup, this bread will fit right into your comfort-food repertoire.

Table of Contents

3-Step No Knead Bread Recipe – Easy, Crusty & Foolproof

Ingredients – No Knead Bread

3 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon active dry yeast
1½ teaspoons salt
1½ cups warm water (about 110°F)

Directions – No Knead Bread

Step 1 – Mix the Dough
Combine flour, yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Add warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 2 – Rest & Rise
Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rest at room temperature for 12–18 hours until bubbly.

Step 3 – Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Place Dutch oven with lid inside for 30 minutes.

Step 4 – Shape the Dough
Lightly flour a surface, shape dough into a round loaf. No kneading needed.

Step 5 – Bake
Transfer dough to hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake 30 minutes. Remove lid and bake 10–15 minutes more until golden brown.

Step 6 – Cool & Serve
Let cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve with butter, soups, or stews.

Tips & Variations

Add Flavor: Mix in herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Seeded Version: Top with sesame or poppy seeds before baking.
Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded cheddar or parmesan for a richer loaf.
Whole Wheat: Replace 1 cup all-purpose with whole wheat flour.

For more creative ideas, check trusted sources like AllRecipes’ no-knead bread guide.

Serving Suggestions

This bread shines alongside:

Basic Vegetable Soup for a hearty meal.
Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs as a fun appetizer pairing.
Fresh butter and jam for a simple breakfast treat.

Storage

Room Temperature: 2–3 days in an airtight bag.
Freezer: Slice and freeze up to 2 months. Toast directly from frozen.

Time & Yield

Prep Time: 10 minutes (hands-on)
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Custom Time (rising): 12–18 hours
Total Time: ~13 hours
Servings: 1 loaf (~10 slices)
Calories: ~150 kcal per slice

Tools Used

Dutch oven with lid
Mixing bowl
Wooden spoon
Parchment paper
Wire rack

FAQs about No Knead Bread

1) Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?
Yes, same amount works.

2) Do I need a Dutch oven?
It’s ideal, but you can use any oven-safe pot with a lid.

3) Can I speed up rising time?
You can let it rise 3–4 hours in a warmer spot, but overnight yields better flavor.

4) How do I keep the crust crispy?
Store loosely wrapped in paper, not plastic.

Final Thoughts

No Knead Bread proves that baking doesn’t need to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients and time on your side, you can enjoy bakery-quality bread at home. It’s rustic, comforting, and endlessly versatile.

Pair it with cozy mains like Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings, or enjoy it toasted with jam. This bread is also perfect for soaking up hearty soups, dipping into olive oil, or layering with cheese for simple sandwiches. Each slice delivers that satisfying crunch and soft interior that makes homemade bread so special. And if you’re eager to explore more bread variations, Delish’s bread recipes offer plenty of inspiration to expand your baking journey.

Easy No Knead Bread Recipe – Crusty, Foolproof & Delicious

No Knead Bread – Easy, Crusty & Foolproof

This No Knead Bread is crusty on the outside and airy on the inside. With no kneading required, it’s the easiest way to enjoy homemade artisan bread. Perfect with soups, stews, or simply with butter.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 45

Total Time 13

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon active dry yeast
1½ teaspoons salt
1½ cups warm water about 110°F

Equipment

Dutch oven with lid
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Parchment paper
- Wire rack

Method

Cover and let rise at room temperature for 12–18 hours until bubbly.
Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Place Dutch oven (with lid) inside for 30 minutes.
Turn dough onto a floured surface. Shape into a round loaf (no kneading needed).
Place dough onto parchment paper and carefully transfer to Dutch oven.
Cover and bake 30 minutes. Remove lid and bake another 10–15 minutes until golden.
Cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve warm or toasted.