Easy 4-Ingredient Homemade Bread Recipe - No Knead Required

Prep: 15 minCook: 30 min1 loaf (8 slices)mediumAmerican
Easy 4-Ingredient Homemade Bread Recipe - No Knead Required

A foolproof homemade bread recipe that requires just four pantry staples and minimal effort. This soft, golden loaf features a tender crumb and crispy crust, perfect for beginners or busy bakers seeking fresh bread without complexity. The simple combination of flour, yeast, sugar, and salt creates a versatile everyday bread ideal for sandwiches, toast, or dinner rolls. Quick rising time and straightforward mixing make this an accessible introduction to bread baking.

VeganVegetarianDairy-FreeNut-Free

Ingredients

Yield: 1 loaf (8 slices)
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
    bread flour1:1gluten-free

    higher protein content for chewier texture

  • 1 packet active dry yeast
    instant yeast1:1convenience

    can mix directly with dry ingredients

    Full guide →
  • 1 tbsp sugar
    honey1:1natural sweetener

    may darken crust slightly

    Full guide →
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 ½ cups warm water

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a mixing bowl

  2. 2

    Let mixture sit until frothy

  3. 3

    Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture

  4. 4

    Stir until dough forms

  5. 5

    Knead dough on floured surface

  6. 6

    Place dough in greased loaf pan

  7. 7

    Cover and let rise

  8. 8

    Preheat oven to 375°F

  9. 9

    Bake until golden brown

Tips

Tip 1

Test water temperature on your wrist - it should feel warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.

Tip 2

Look for the yeast mixture to become frothy and bubbly, indicating active yeast before proceeding.

Tip 3

Grease the loaf pan well to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal after baking.

Good to Know

Storage

Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months

Make Ahead

Dough can be prepared and refrigerated overnight for slower rise and better flavor

Serve With

Best served warm from the oven or toasted

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Use a thermometer to check water temperature - too hot will kill yeast

Watch

Don't skip the frothing step - it confirms yeast viability

Watch

Knead thoroughly to develop gluten for proper texture

Substitutions

Gluten-Free Swaps

all-purpose flour→
bread flour1:1gluten-free

higher protein content for chewier texture

Full guide →

General Alternatives

sugar→
honey1:1natural sweetener

may darken crust slightly

Full guide →
active dry yeast→
instant yeast1:1convenience

can mix directly with dry ingredients

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I make this without a loaf pan?

Yes, shape into a round loaf and bake on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Reduce baking time by 5-10 minutes.

What if my yeast doesn't foam?

The yeast is likely dead or the water was too hot. Start over with fresh yeast and properly tempered water.

How long will this bread keep fresh?

Store covered at room temperature for 2-3 days. Freeze sliced portions for up to 3 months for longer storage.