No-Knead 3-Ingredient Bread Recipe for Homemade Sandwichs

No-knead bread is life changing. This easy overnight loaf uses just three core ingredients and becomes a go-to recipe you’ll make again and again.

*This post was updated in 2022 to include a video. The recipe is unchanged.

I considered posting something fall-themed or pumpkin-related, but I’m not ready to let go of summer yet. With Oscar back at school though, autumn does feel closer—he started Grade 1 on Tuesday! Parenting really proves the days feel long but the years pass quickly.

Since I’m not doing pumpkin recipes yet, I wanted to share something warm and cozy:

3 Ingredient Bread

What is 3 ingredient bread?

Commercial loaves often contain many additives, but bread can be made with just a few simple ingredients. This no-knead loaf is similar to a sourdough-style boule but doesn’t require a starter. The essentials are:

• bread flour (or substitute all-purpose flour)
• active dry yeast
• sea salt

Warm water is also required, so technically this becomes a four-ingredient method, but the point is how simple and natural the formula is.

How do you make no-knead bread?

This is one of the easiest bread recipes you can make. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt and yeast. Add warm water and stir until a loose, shaggy dough forms.

Gather the dough into a rough ball, cover the bowl tightly, and let it rise on the counter overnight in a warmish spot, away from drafts. I usually mix the dough in the evening and bake the following afternoon; allow 12–18 hours for the rise.

When the dough has roughly doubled in size, it’s ready for shaping.

About two hours before baking, turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a smooth ball with floured hands. Place the ball on a piece of parchment set over a clean dish towel, and cover it loosely with the towel while it relaxes.

Thirty minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 450°F with a Dutch oven or baking stone inside so the vessel becomes very hot.

Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven, lift the dough on the parchment into the vessel, and optionally slash a small cut on top to help steam escape. Replace the lid and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the lid, lower the oven to 375°F, and bake an additional 15 minutes until the crust is deep golden.

Allow the loaf to cool about 20 minutes before slicing. Fresh, warm bread with butter is irresistible—I often can’t wait and burn my fingers from eager slicing!

Can you use whole wheat flour for this recipe?

You can use whole wheat, but a 100% whole wheat loaf will likely be denser. Try a half-and-half blend of bread or all-purpose flour and whole wheat for lighter texture. If you do use whole wheat, add a little extra water because whole wheat absorbs more liquid.

How long does this bread last?

The loaf is best the day it’s baked but will keep well for one to two days. Because it contains no preservatives, it will dry out faster than store-bought bread. Stale slices are perfect for recipes like an overnight French toast casserole or homemade croutons.

What do you serve with 3 ingredient bread?

This bread pairs with almost anything. It can stand alone with butter and cheese, or accompany soups, stews and curries. A few ideas that go especially well include roasted tomato basil soup, minestrone, or a peanut chicken curry—essentially any comforting, saucy dish.

Enjoy!

3 Ingredient Bread

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• Author: Katherine | Love In My Oven
• Total Time: 15 hours
• Yield: 1 loaf