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Perfect Crusty Dutch Oven Bread - Beginner-Friendly No-Knead Recipe

This easy, no-knead Dutch oven bread recipe delivers a golden, crispy crust and soft, airy interior — all with just four ingredients. Perfect for beginners, it creates bakery-quality artisan bread right in your home kitchen.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 5 hours
Servings: 1 loaf (12 slices)
Course: Bread
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 packet active dry yeast 2.25 teaspoons
  • ½ tablespoon fine grain salt
  • 3¼ cups all-purpose or bread flour
  • 1½ cups warm water about 100°F

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk warm water, yeast, and salt until dissolved.
  2. Add flour and stir until a sticky dough forms. Adjust with small amounts of flour or water if needed.
  3. Cover bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let rise 2–3 hours until doubled and bubbly.
  4. Place Dutch oven with lid inside oven and preheat to 450°F for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Turn dough onto floured parchment paper and shape into a rough oval or round loaf. Optional: score top with sharp knife.
  6. Carefully transfer dough (with parchment) into the hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 35 minutes.
  7. Remove lid and bake 5–10 more minutes until crust is deep golden brown.
  8. Cool on wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

For a nuttier flavor, substitute up to 25% of flour with whole wheat. Always preheat your Dutch oven — it’s essential for that perfect crust. Store bread cut-side down under a towel for up to 3 days.