Golden Crust No-Knead Artisan Bread

Introduction

There’s something almost magical about baking bread at home—the smell that fills your kitchen, the crackling sound as it cools, and that first warm slice with a pat of butter melting into it.
This No-Knead Artisan Bread is the perfect loaf for both beginners and pros. It’s rustic, golden, chewy on the outside, and tender inside — the kind of bread that looks like it came from a bakery in the French countryside.

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Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1½ teaspoons salt

• 1½ teaspoons instant yeast

• 1½ cups warm water (not hot — about 110°F or 43°C)

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Instructions

Step 1: Mixing the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and yeast. Gradually pour in the warm water, stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
👉 The dough will look messy and sticky—don’t worry, that’s exactly what we want.

Step 2: The Long Rise

Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Let it rest at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours.
⏳ During this time, the yeast works its magic, forming bubbles and gluten structure naturally—no kneading needed!

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Place a Dutch oven (or heavy oven-safe pot) with its lid inside your oven. Preheat to 450°F (232°C) for at least 30 minutes.
⚠️ This step ensures the pot is piping hot, creating that iconic crispy crust.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Dust your counter generously with flour. Gently scrape the dough from the bowl—it will be soft and sticky. Shape it roughly into a ball by folding the edges underneath. Let it rest while the oven finishes preheating.

Step 5: Bake

Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven (use oven mitts!). Sprinkle the bottom lightly with flour or parchment paper.
Place your dough inside, cover with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes.

Step 6: The Golden Finish

Remove the lid and bake uncovered for another 15–20 minutes, until the loaf is deep golden brown with a beautiful blistered crust.

Step 7: Cool & Enjoy

Let your bread cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing—this helps the interior set perfectly. Then, slice, slather with butter, or dip in olive oil and herbs!

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Tips for Success

• For extra flavor, replace ¼ cup of water with milk or buttermilk.

• Add-ins like rosemary, garlic, olives, or cheese take it to the next level.

• Store leftover bread in a cloth bag or wrapped in parchment — never in the fridge!

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Serving Ideas

• 🧈 Serve with butter and sea salt flakes for breakfast.

• 🍲 Pair with soup, stew, or chili for cozy dinners.

• 🧀 Slice for sandwiches or toast with cheese and tomato.

• 🍯 Drizzle with honey for a sweet morning treat.

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Why It Works

The long fermentation gives this bread complex flavor and structure—similar to sourdough but without the starter. The high baking heat and covered pot trap steam, giving that perfect golden crust.

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Related Questions

1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
   → Yes! Just dissolve it in warm water first and let it sit for 10 minutes before adding to the flour.

2. How can I make it gluten-free?
   → Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and slightly reduce water.

3. Can I make smaller loaves?
   → Absolutely—divide the dough into two portions and bake for 20–25 minutes each.

4. What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?
   → Use a heavy oven-safe pot with a lid or even a deep baking dish covered tightly with foil.

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Story Moment

Every baker remembers their first perfect loaf — that sense of pride when the crust sings as it cools. This recipe brings that joy to your home, no stand mixer, no fancy tools — just flour, water, and patience.