If you love homemade bread but don’t want to spend hours kneading dough, this easy no-knead bread recipe is perfect for you. Made with simple pantry ingredients, this bread is incredibly soft, fluffy, and requires minimal effort. With no eggs or butter, it’s an ideal option for those with dietary restrictions. Whether you use it for sandwiches, toast, or breakfast spreads, this homemade bread is a game-changer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ No Kneading Required – Just mix and let it rise.
✔ No Eggs or Butter – Perfect for vegans and those with dietary restrictions.
✔ Soft & Fluffy Texture – Ideal for sandwiches and toast.
✔ Budget-Friendly – Made with simple, affordable ingredients.
✔ Freezes Well – Make a batch and store it for later.
Ingredients & Their Roles
Wet Ingredients
- Water – 200ml (0.85 cups): Helps activate the yeast and form the dough.
- Sugar – 25g (2 tbsp): Feeds the yeast and enhances flavor.
- Yeast – 3g (1 tsp): Makes the bread rise and creates a light texture.
Dry Ingredients
- Bread Flour – 300g (2 cups): High in protein, ensuring a chewy and airy crumb.
- Salt – 3g (1/2 tsp): Enhances flavor and regulates yeast activity.
Fats
- Olive Oil – 20g (2 tbsp): Adds moisture and improves texture. You can substitute with vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture
In a large bowl, combine 200ml (0.85 cups) of water, 25g (2 tbsp) of sugar, and 3g (1 tsp) of yeast. Stir until fully dissolved. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough
Gradually add 300g (2 cups) of bread flour and 3g (1/2 tsp) of salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add the Olive Oil
Pour in 20g (2 tbsp) of olive oil and mix until well incorporated. The dough will be sticky, but that’s normal.
4. First Rest (20 Minutes)
Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rest for 20 minutes. This allows the flour to fully absorb the liquid.
5. Mix Again
After resting, stir the dough again for a minute to develop its elasticity. No kneading is needed.
6. First Proofing (1 Hour)
Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
7. Prepare for Shaping
Lightly flour a clean surface and transfer the dough onto it. Sprinkle some extra flour on top to prevent sticking. Press the dough down gently to release air bubbles.
8. Shape the Dough
- Fold the dough in half four times to develop structure.
- Divide it into three equal portions and shape each into a ball.
- Cover and let rest for 15 minutes.
9. Shape for the Loaf Pan
- Take each dough ball and flatten it into a rectangle.
- Fold the sides inward and roll it into a log shape.
- Seal the edges tightly to maintain structure.
10. Second Proofing (50 Minutes)
Place the shaped dough into a 450g loaf pan (20.8 × 11.8 × 11 cm). Cover and let it rise for 50 minutes, until it fills 80-90% of the pan.
11. Bake the Bread
- Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
12. Cool & Serve
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Pro Tips for Perfect Bread
✔ Use Warm Water: Water that is too hot will kill the yeast, and water that is too cold won’t activate it. Aim for 38-43°C (100-110°F).
✔ Don’t Skip the Second Rise: This ensures a soft and airy loaf with the perfect texture.
✔ Check for Doneness: Tap the bottom of the bread—if it sounds hollow, it’s done! Alternatively, use a thermometer; the internal temperature should be 93°C (200°F).
✔ Adjust for Your Oven: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on the bread near the end of baking.
Serving Suggestions
This soft, fluffy bread pairs beautifully with:
- Butter & Jam – Perfect for a classic breakfast.
- Avocado & Eggs – A nutritious and delicious option.
- Sandwiches – Great for grilled cheese, deli meats, or peanut butter.
- Soup & Stew – A comforting side for warm meals.
How to Store Homemade Bread
At Room Temperature
- Store in an airtight container or bag for up to 3 days.
- Keep in a cool, dry place to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing Instructions
- Wrap the loaf in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To use, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead?
Yes, but whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid, making the bread denser. You may need to add extra water to get the right texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum for better structure. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
What’s the Best Substitute for Sugar?
You can replace sugar with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. Keep in mind that liquid sweeteners may slightly alter the dough’s texture.
Why Do I Need Two Rises?
The first rise helps develop the dough’s structure, while the second rise improves flavor and texture, making the bread soft and airy.
Can I Add Herbs or Seeds?
Absolutely! Try adding rosemary, thyme, sesame seeds, or flaxseeds for extra flavor and crunch.
Why Is My Bread Dense?
- Underproofing: The dough didn’t rise enough.
- Overproofing: The dough rose too much and collapsed.
- Too Much Flour: Adding too much flour makes the bread dry and heavy.
Can I Use Instant Yeast Instead?
Yes! If using instant yeast, reduce the amount to 2g (3/4 tsp) since it’s more potent.
Can I Use a Different Pan?
Yes! Adjust baking time based on your pan size. Smaller pans may require longer baking, while wider pans bake faster.
Final Thoughts
This no-knead bread recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike. With its soft, fluffy texture, simple ingredients, and easy steps, you’ll never need to buy store-bought bread again. Try this recipe today and enjoy the warm, comforting aroma of fresh bread filling your kitchen.
Let us know in the comments how your homemade bread turned out! Happy baking!