4-Ingredient Homemade Bread: The Easiest Bread You’ll Ever Make

If you’ve ever been intimidated by the thought of baking bread, this 4-Ingredient Homemade Bread will change everything. No kneading, no fancy equipment, and no extensive experience required—just four pantry staples, a little time, and the magic of a Dutch oven. This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, producing a crusty, golden loaf with a soft, airy interior.

The best part? With only four ingredients—flour, water, yeast, and salt—you can create a bakery-style loaf that fills your home with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Beginner-Friendly: No kneading or special techniques required.
• Minimal Ingredients: Made with staples you likely already have.
• Incredible Flavor: The slow fermentation brings out deep, complex flavors.
• Perfect Texture: Crispy crust and soft, fluffy interior.

Ingredients

This recipe makes 1 medium-sized loaf:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 100°F/38°C)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast. Mix them together using a wooden spoon.
2. Gradually pour in the warm water while stirring. The dough will be shaggy and sticky—that’s exactly what you want! No need to knead.
3. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel. Let the dough rest at room temperature for 12-18 hours. The long resting time allows the dough to ferment, creating incredible flavor and a light texture.

2. Preheat and Prepare

1. About 30 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a Dutch oven (with its lid) into the oven as it preheats. This ensures the Dutch oven is scorching hot when you add the dough, which helps create the perfect crust.
2. While the oven heats, turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface. Sprinkle flour over the top and gently shape the dough into a ball. Let it rest for 20-30 minutes.

3. Bake the Bread

1. Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Place the dough ball into the pot (no need to grease it; the high heat prevents sticking). Cover with the lid.
2. Bake for 30 minutes with the lid on, then remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes to allow the crust to develop a deep golden color.

4. Cool and Enjoy

1. Carefully remove the bread from the Dutch oven and place it on a wire rack to cool. Allow it to cool completely before slicing—this helps the crumb (interior structure) set properly.
2. Slice, serve, and enjoy the rustic goodness of your homemade bread!

Tips for Perfect Bread

1. Use a Digital Thermometer: If you’re unsure about water temperature, aim for 100°F/38°C to activate the yeast without killing it.
2. Hydration is Key: The dough should be sticky—this high hydration level helps create the airy, open crumb.
3. Don’t Rush the Resting Time: The long fermentation is what gives this bread its complex flavor.
4. Experiment with Flour: Substitute up to 1 cup of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat or rye flour for added depth.

Variations to Try

• Herbed Bread: Add 1 teaspoon dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dry ingredients.
• Cheesy Loaf: Fold in 1/2 cup shredded cheese during shaping for a cheesy twist.
• Seeded Bread: Roll the dough in sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or sunflower seeds before baking.
• Garlic and Olive Oil: Mix in a tablespoon of minced garlic and a drizzle of olive oil for a savory loaf.

Why Bake Bread at Home?

Baking bread at home is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience. The smell of fresh bread wafting through your kitchen is unmatched, and the satisfaction of pulling a golden, crusty loaf from the oven is incredibly rewarding. Plus, homemade bread is free of preservatives, costs a fraction of store-bought artisan loaves, and tastes infinitely better.

Serving Suggestions

• For Breakfast: Toast a slice and top it with butter, jam, or avocado.
• For Lunch: Use it to make a hearty sandwich or as a side with soup.
• For Dinner: Pair it with a cheese board or dip it in olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Final Thoughts

This 4-Ingredient Homemade Bread proves that simplicity can lead to something extraordinary. With just a few ingredients, a bit of patience, and a Dutch oven, you can create a loaf that rivals anything from a bakery. Whether you’re new to bread-making or a seasoned baker looking for a no-fuss recipe, this one is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

Give it a try, and enjoy the simple pleasure of baking your own bread!