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Easy No-Knead Artisan Bread Loaf Recipe for Perfect Crispy Crust

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This easy no-knead artisan bread loaf features a crispy crust and soft, airy crumb with minimal hands-on time. Perfect for home bakers seeking bakery-quality bread without the fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
  • 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (around 75°F / 24°C)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast, and 1 1/4 teaspoons salt. Stir briefly to blend.
  2. Pour in 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water. Use a wooden spoon to stir until the dough is shaggy and sticky but well combined.
  3. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rest at room temperature (about 70°F / 21°C) for 12 to 18 hours until the dough doubles in size and bubbles form.
  4. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) with a Dutch oven and lid inside for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Lightly flour a work surface. Scrape the dough out gently and fold it over itself a couple of times to form a rough ball without pressing too hard.
  6. Place the dough seam-side down on a floured kitchen towel. Dust the top with flour and cover with another towel. Let it rest for 30-45 minutes until it puffs slightly.
  7. Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Lift the dough using the towel and place it into the pot seam side up. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
  8. Remove the lid and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until the crust is deep golden brown and crackly. The loaf should sound hollow when tapped.
  9. Transfer the loaf to a wire rack and cool for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Notes

Do not rush the cooling process to avoid gummy texture. Preheat the Dutch oven thoroughly for a crispy crust. Use a kitchen scale for consistent flour measurement. The dough will be sticky; avoid adding extra flour during mixing. Tap the bottom of the loaf to test doneness; it should sound hollow.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-knead bread, artisan bread, crispy crust, easy bread recipe, homemade bread, Dutch oven bread

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/easy-no-knead-artisan-bread-loaf-recipe-for-perfect-crispy-crust/