Some mornings linger with a slow, comforting rhythm, and that’s exactly when this no knead bread recipe fits right in. It’s the kind of loaf that doesn’t demand your full attention, yet rewards you with a crusty, golden crust and a chewy, tender crumb. The yeast does the heavy lifting, giving the dough a gentle rise while you sip your coffee or get lost in a book.
The first time I tried this, I was a bit skeptical. My kitchen was cluttered—there was a half-empty cup of tea left on the counter, and I almost forgot to set the timer. But the dough? It simply did its thing, bubbling and expanding quietly overnight. When I pulled it out the next day, the smell alone made me forget all about the messy kitchen. The crust crackled as I sliced through, and the crumb was just right—not too dense, not too airy. I spread some butter and jam on a warm slice, feeling a simple kind of satisfaction that’s hard to explain.
Why You’ll Love It:
- It’s a hands-off recipe that fits even the busiest schedules—pop it in and let time do the work.
- The crust has that satisfying crackle and chew without any complicated kneading.
- Patience is key: the long rise means you’ll wait, but the reward is totally worth it.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No fancy equipment or ingredients needed.
If you’re new to bread baking, don’t worry about perfect measurements or folding techniques. This recipe embraces imperfection, and honestly, that’s part of the charm.
Print
No Knead Bread with Yeast
- Total Time: 10 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Description
A simple and easy no knead bread recipe that uses yeast for a perfect rise and a crusty, chewy texture. This bread requires minimal effort and yields a delicious homemade loaf.
Ingredients
3 cups (360 grams) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 cups (360 ml) warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Add the warm water to the dry ingredients and mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy, sticky dough forms. Ensure all flour is hydrated.
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise at room temperature for 8 to 12 hours, or until it has doubled in size and is bubbly on the surface.
After the dough has risen, generously flour a clean work surface and your hands. Turn the dough out onto the surface and fold it over itself once or twice to shape it into a rough ball.
Place the dough seam side down on a piece of parchment paper. Cover it loosely with a kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
About 30 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a heavy lidded pot (such as a Dutch oven) inside the oven to heat up as well.
Carefully remove the hot pot from the oven. Using the parchment paper, lift the dough and place it into the pot. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes to brown the crust.
Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Kitchen Notes: I usually rely on a heavy pot with a lid for baking, but you can try a cast iron skillet with a lid or even a deep oven-safe bowl if that’s what you have. Serving this bread warm with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt is my go-to, especially when the loaf is fresh. I haven’t tested all variations, but adding herbs or garlic to the dough might be worth a shot if you want a flavor twist. Also, if you’re short on time, the rise can be shortened slightly, though the texture won’t be quite the same.
FAQ:
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast? Yes, but you might need to activate it in warm water first.
What if my dough doesn’t rise much? Room temperature plays a big role. If it’s too cold, the yeast slows down.
How do I store leftover bread? Keep it in a paper bag or bread box for a couple of days, or freeze wrapped tightly for longer.
Give this no knead bread a try when you have a quiet day ahead. It’s a simple joy that fills your kitchen—and your belly—with warmth. Once you taste that chewy crust, you might find yourself waiting for the timer just as much as the bread does.