INTRODUCTION
Easy No-Knead Artisan Bread is a simple, hands-off bread you can make at home with little work. This loaf makes a crisp crust and a soft, open crumb. It is a great starter recipe for home bakers. You only mix, wait, and bake. This recipe fits busy lives and works well as a healthy version of store-bought artisan bread.
If you like cozy drinks with fresh bread, try a warm pairing like a cozy gingerbread latte for a seasonal treat. This loaf is a lighter option than many packaged loaves and can be part of a balanced meal or a meal prep plan.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this recipe because it is quick to prep, needs no kneading, and gives bakery-style bread at home. It is great for meal prep. Make a batch and slice for sandwiches, toast, or snacks. It is a lighter option than many store artisan loaves that contain added fats or sugar. It also fits into a plan for weight loss when you watch portion sizes and pair the bread with lean protein and vegetables.
This bread has a simple ingredient list and no added sugar. You can boost its nutrition by using part whole wheat flour or adding seeds. That can increase fiber and make a more balanced, high protein meal when served with lean meats, eggs, or beans. If you want a cozy drink to go with fresh bread, you might enjoy this homemade peppermint mocha after baking for a treat on cold days.
HOW TO MAKE Easy No-Knead Artisan Bread
This no-knead method is very forgiving. You mix the dry ingredients, add water, and let time do the work. The long rest builds flavor and texture without hard work. This is a healthy version of artisan bread because it uses just basic ingredients and no extra fat or sugar. It is also great for meal prep. Make a loaf and slice for several meals.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Plastic wrap or saran wrap
- Towel (optional)
- Dutch oven or heavy oven-safe pot with lid (for best crust)
- Baking sheet (if you do the oven-only method)
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Sharp knife or lame to score the dough
Ingredients You’ll Need :
3-1/4 cups AP flour, 2 tsp instant yeast, 1-1/2 tsp salt, 1-1/2 cups warm water
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast and salt.
Add the warm water and stir with a wooden spoon until just combined. (It will look pretty shaggy.)
Cover with saran wrap, (I throw a towel over the top too), and let it sit for 4-24 hours in a non-drafty place. (I keep mine in the empty microwave.)
When ready to bake:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven or heavy pot inside while the oven heats. Let it heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Shape it gently into a round by folding edges under to make a smooth top. Do not deflate the dough too much.
- Place the dough on a piece of parchment paper. Score the top with a sharp knife or lame to help it expand.
- Carefully remove the hot pot from the oven. Lift the dough on the parchment and place it into the pot. Cover with the lid.
- Bake covered for 20-25 minutes to trap steam and create a crisp crust.
- Remove the lid and bake another 10-15 minutes until the crust is deep golden brown.
- Move the bread to a rack and cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to finish the crumb.
HOW TO SERVE Easy No-Knead Artisan Bread
Serve warm slices with healthy toppings. For a lighter option, top with mashed avocado and a squeeze of lemon, or use thin slices with lean turkey and lots of veggies for a high protein meal. A single slice with a side salad and a hard-boiled egg makes a balanced lunch. For portion control, aim for 1–2 slices per person and pair the bread with protein and fiber to keep you full longer.
Good topping ideas:
- Cottage cheese and sliced tomato (high protein)
- Hummus and cucumber (fiber and plant protein)
- Smoked salmon, light cream cheese, and dill (lean protein)
- Olive oil and herbs for a simple snack
STORAGE & FREEZING : Easy No-Knead Artisan Bread
Store the cooled loaf at room temperature in a paper bag or wrapped in a clean towel for 2–3 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze in an airtight bag. For quick toast, pull out frozen slices and toast them straight from the freezer.
If you want to save time as part of meal prep, slice the loaf and freeze portions for the week. This makes the bread great for meal prep and easy breakfasts or lunches. To defrost, leave slices on the counter for 10–20 minutes or toast from frozen.
For tips on pairing warm breads with drinks, you can read our guide to a delicious raspberry mocha that pairs well with sweet or savory toast toppings.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Pair this bread with balanced sides for a healthy meal. Try:
- A bowl of vegetable soup and a slice of bread for a low calorie, comforting meal.
- A salad with leafy greens, beans, and grilled chicken for a high protein meal.
- Scrambled eggs and spinach for a protein-rich breakfast.
Portion control tips: keep slices thin if you are aiming for weight loss, and always add a source of protein or fiber to balance carbs. This helps the bread fit into a heart healthy or low calorie plan when eaten in sensible portions.
VARIATIONS
- Healthier version: Replace 1 cup of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and add 2 tablespoons of ground flax or chia seeds. This increases fiber and makes the loaf more filling and better for digestion.
- High-protein or low-carb version: Use high-protein flour blends or add whey or pea protein powder (start with 1/4 cup) and replace part of the flour with almond flour for a lower carb note. Note: texture will change, and you may need a little less water. Another option is to slice thin and pair each slice with a high protein topping like cottage cheese or grilled chicken.
- Air fryer or oven-baked version: You can bake small individual rounds in the air fryer at 400°F for 15–20 minutes (check often) to get a crispy crust and soft center. For oven-only baking, use a baking sheet with a tray of hot water for steam, or bake on a preheated baking stone for a crusty loaf.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Easy No-Knead Artisan Bread
- Mix the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This slows fermentation and builds flavor.
- Shape and bake in the morning for fresh bread with minimal work.
- Slice and freeze in meal-sized packs for quick use all week. This bread is great for meal prep because you can take a few slices out at a time and use them for sandwiches or toast.
FAQs
Q: Is this bread healthy?
A: This bread is a simple loaf with no added sugar and no fats, so it can be part of a healthy diet. For more fiber, swap part of the white flour for whole wheat and add seeds. Watch portion size for weight loss plans.
Q: Can I make this diabetic-friendly?
A: You can make it friendlier for blood sugar control by using more whole grain flour, adding seeds, and keeping portions small. Pair slices with protein and healthy fats to slow glucose response.
Q: How long will the bread stay fresh at room temperature?
A: It stays fresh for 2–3 days if wrapped in a paper bag or towel. For longer storage, slice and freeze. Toast or reheat to refresh the crust.
Q: Can I make this bread low carb?
A: True low-carb bread needs large flour swaps and different binders. You can make a lower-carb version by using almond flour with added eggs and proteins, but that changes the recipe significantly. Alternatively, keep slices thin and pair with proteins to reduce net carbs per meal.
Q: Is this bread good for weight loss?
A: Bread can fit into a weight loss plan when eaten in controlled portions and paired with protein and vegetables. Consider thin slices and balanced meals to support weight loss goals.
Q: Can I add seeds or nuts?
A: Yes. Add up to 1/2 cup of seeds or chopped nuts to the dough at the mixing step for extra fiber and healthy fats.
Q: How do I re-crisp the crust?
A: Reheat in a 375°F oven for 5–10 minutes or toast slices. A sprinkle of water on the crust before heating helps create steam and crispness.
Q: Can I proof this dough in the fridge?
A: Yes. Proofing in the fridge for up to 24 hours slows fermentation and deepens the flavor. Bring to room temp before baking.
Easy No-Knead Artisan Bread
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, and salt.
- Add the warm water and stir with a wooden spoon until just combined. (It will look pretty shaggy.)
- Cover with saran wrap, and let it sit for 4-24 hours in a non-drafty place.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven or heavy pot inside to heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a round by folding edges under.
- Place the dough on parchment paper and score the top with a sharp knife.
- Carefully remove the hot pot from the oven, lift the dough with the parchment, and place it into the pot. Cover with the lid.
- Bake covered for 20-25 minutes, then remove the lid and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until deep golden brown.
- Remove and cool on a rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.