No-Knead Soft Homemade Bread
Ingredients:
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
2 tsp instant yeast
1 ½ cups warm water (around 110°F / 43°C)
2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
Instructions:
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Stir well.
Add Wet Ingredients:
Pour in warm water and olive oil. Mix with a spoon until a sticky dough forms. No kneading needed.
First Rise:
Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours until it doubles in size.
Shape the Loaf:
Lightly flour a surface. Gently fold the dough onto itself a couple of times and shape it into a round or oval loaf.
Second Rise:
Place the shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let it rise 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Optional: place an empty pan on the bottom rack for steam (this makes the crust extra nice).
Bake:
Score the top with a sharp knife. Bake 25–30 minutes until golden brown. Tap the bottom—it should sound hollow.
Cool & Enjoy:
Let it cool 10–15 minutes before slicing. Warning: it’s addictive warm with butter!
