There’s something quietly satisfying about waking up to the smell of fresh bread, especially when it’s laced with the warmth of maple syrup and the crunch of toasted pecans. This no-knead bread has that kind of magic — it’s rustic, a little sweet, and welcomes you like an old friend on a slow morning.
One morning, I set the dough before going to bed and forgot about it as I got distracted by a phone call that ran longer than I expected. When I finally remembered, the dough had risen beautifully, dotted with little bubbles that promised a crusty exterior. The house smelled like a cozy bakery by the time it was ready. I sliced into the loaf a bit too soon—impatient as usual—and the warm crumb still a bit doughy made me think, maybe next time I’ll just wait a little longer. But that first bite, with maple sweetness mingling with the toasted pecans, was worth every second.
Why You’ll Love It:
- The hands-off rise means you can prep it before bed and wake up to fresh bread.
- Maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness that’s not overpowering—just right for breakfast or a snack.
- Toasted pecans give crunch and texture, making each bite interesting.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No fancy techniques, just patience.
- The crust can be a little thicker than some might expect, but that’s part of the charm.
If you’re new to no-knead bread, don’t worry about perfect shaping or timing. This recipe is forgiving and invites experimentation.
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Maple Pecan No-Knead Bread
- Total Time: 16 hours
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
Description
A rustic, slightly sweet no-knead bread infused with the rich flavor of maple syrup and crunchy toasted pecans. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack with butter.
Ingredients
3 cups (360 grams) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1 cup (240 ml) warm water
1/4 cup (60 ml) pure maple syrup
1 cup (100 grams) pecans, toasted and chopped
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, instant yeast, and salt until well combined.
Add the warm water and maple syrup to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
Fold in the toasted and chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise at room temperature for 12 to 16 hours, until the surface is dotted with bubbles and the dough has doubled in size.
Lightly flour a clean work surface and turn the dough out onto it. With floured hands, gently shape the dough into a round loaf by folding the edges toward the center.
Place the dough seam side down on a piece of parchment paper. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
About 30 minutes before baking, place a Dutch oven with its lid in the oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C).
Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Using the parchment paper, lift the dough and place it into the Dutch oven.
Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the bread is deep golden brown and crusty.
Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and transfer to a wire rack. Let cool completely before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Kitchen Notes: I usually use a heavy pot or Dutch oven to get that crisp crust without fuss. When I serve this bread, a smear of softened butter or a drizzle of honey is my go-to, but it’s also wonderful torn apart and dipped into jam. If you want to switch things up, try swapping pecans for walnuts or even adding a handful of dried cranberries—though I haven’t tested those variations enough to promise exact results. Also, if you prefer a less sweet loaf, you can reduce the maple syrup slightly. Just keep in mind the dough will be a bit less sticky.
FAQ: Can I make this bread without a Dutch oven? Yes, you can bake it on a baking stone or heavy tray, but the crust might not be as crisp. How long does the dough need to rise? Ideally 12 to 16 hours at room temperature, but a bit longer won’t hurt either. Can I freeze the bread? Absolutely—wrap it tightly once cooled and thaw at room temperature before slicing.
Ready to cozy up your mornings? Give this maple pecan no-knead bread a try and see how a simple loaf can make the start of your day something to savor.