Easy Homemade Bread (Printable Version)
Crispy, golden crust and fluffy center from just four ingredients—no kneading required.
# Ingredients:
→ Dough
01 -
3 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour
02 -
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
03 -
1/2 teaspoon instant yeast
04 -
1 1/2 cups warm water (approximately 100°F)
# Steps:
01 -
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast. Add warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms. No kneading required.
02 -
Cover the bowl loosely with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let rise at room temperature for 1 to 4 hours, until bubbly and doubled in size.
03 -
Turn the dough out onto a piece of parchment paper. Shape gently into a round loaf without deflating. Let rest while the oven preheats.
04 -
Place a Dutch oven with its lid in the oven and preheat to 450°F. Heat for at least 30 minutes to ensure full temperature.
05 -
Use a sharp knife or razor to score the top of the dough. Carefully transfer dough with parchment into the hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
06 -
Remove lid and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the crust is deep golden brown.
07 -
Remove bread from Dutch oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing to prevent a gummy interior.
# Notes:
01 -
For best crust, always preheat the Dutch oven fully before baking.
02 -
Use parchment paper to transfer dough into the pot easily and without sticking.
03 -
If your house is cool, let dough rise near a warm appliance or sunny window.
04 -
Add-ins like herbs, cheese, or olives can be folded into the dough before rising.
05 -
To store, keep bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze slices in a sealed bag for longer storage.