Making homemade bread has never been easier! This no-knead Dutch oven crusty bread is a beginner-friendly recipe that yields bakery-quality results without complicated techniques. Forget store-bought bread—this easy recipe will make your kitchen smell amazing and impress family and friends with minimal effort.

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Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
2–3 teaspoons kosher salt
½ teaspoon active dry yeast
1 ½ cups lukewarm water

Special Equipment:

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Dutch oven (or any large oven-safe pot with a lid)
Parchment paper

Instructions

Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast.
- Pour in the lukewarm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
Let the Dough Rise
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
- Let sit at room temperature for 8–24 hours, allowing the dough to bubble and double in size.
Preheat the Oven
- About 1.5 hours before baking, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Place your Dutch oven inside to heat for 30 minutes.
Shape the Dough
- Turn the dough onto a well-floured surface.
- With floured hands, gently shape it into a ball—no kneading required.
- Cover loosely with plastic wrap while the Dutch oven preheats.
Bake the Bread
- Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven.
- Transfer the dough (on parchment paper) into the Dutch oven.
- Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake 7–15 minutes longer until golden brown.
Cool and Serve
- Remove the bread from the oven and place on a cutting board.
- Slice and enjoy your fresh, homemade crusty bread!

Pro Tips

Warm Environment: Keep dough in a warm spot to ensure proper rising.
Flour Hands Generously: Sticky dough is normal—flour prevents sticking.
Steam is Key: Covering with the Dutch oven lid traps steam for a perfect crust.
Decorative Scoring: Use a sharp knife or scoring tool to create patterns or shapes.

Why This Recipe Works

No Kneading Needed: Simplifies bread-making without sacrificing texture.
Minimal Ingredients: Pantry staples create bakery-quality bread.
Versatile & Fun: Shape or decorate the dough for festive occasions.

Substitutions & Variations

Flour: Substitute half all-purpose flour with bread flour for a chewier texture.
Herbs & Garlic: Add granulated garlic, rosemary, or thyme for extra flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend; adjust water as needed.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make-Ahead: Prepare dough up to 24 hours in advance.
Storage: Store at room temperature in an airtight bag for 2–3 days.
Freezing: Slice and freeze for up to 2 months; reheat in the oven at 350°F.
Reheating: Wrap in foil and bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes to refresh crustiness.

Serving Ideas

Serve warm with butter or olive oil.
Pair with soups, stews, or salads.
Use for sandwiches or toast.

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: 180
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 1g
Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this bread without a Dutch oven?
A: Yes! Use any oven-safe pot with a lid or a baking dish covered with foil.

Q: Why is my bread dense?
A: Ensure your dough rises in a warm environment and give it enough time to ferment.

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Q: Can I add seeds or grains?
A: Absolutely! Sprinkle sesame, poppy, or oats on top before baking for extra texture.

This easy no-knead Dutch oven crusty bread is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. With minimal ingredients, no kneading, and outstanding flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Make homemade bread effortlessly and enjoy the comforting aroma and taste that only fresh bread can provide.

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