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Easy No-Knead Artisan Bread with Dutch Oven

A loaf of homemade artisan bread, sliced open to show the open, airy crumb structure.

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Make bakery-quality artisan bread at home using a simple, no-knead method. This recipe requires only four basic ingredients and a Dutch oven to achieve a thick, crusty exterior and a soft, airy interior.

Ingredients

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  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups cool water

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and yeast.
  2. Pour in the cool water and mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy, sticky dough forms. Do not knead.
  3. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let the dough rest at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours. The dough will become bubbly and increase in volume.
  4. About 30 minutes before baking, place a 5-to-6-quart Dutch oven, with the lid on, into your oven. Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
  5. Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Gently scrape the dough out of the bowl onto a lightly floured surface. Fold the dough over on itself a few times to form a rough ball.
  6. Using parchment paper as a sling, carefully lower the dough into the hot Dutch oven. Cover with the lid.
  7. Bake for 30 minutes with the lid on.
  8. Remove the lid and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown.
  9. Carefully remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • For the best flavor and texture, allow the dough to ferment for the full 18 hours.
  • If you do not have a Dutch oven, you can bake this on a baking stone or sheet pan, but place a pan of hot water on the bottom rack to create steam for a better crust.
  • This recipe is excellent for beginners looking for foolproof bread baking results.

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