Easy No-Knead Dutch Oven Bread with Long Rise
This rustic artisan-style bread requires just four simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time. The long fermentation period of 8-18 hours develops complex flavors and creates the perfect chewy texture with a crispy crust. The Dutch oven method traps steam to create bakery-quality results at home. Perfect for beginners who want homemade bread without the kneading effort, this versatile loaf pairs beautifully with soups, makes excellent toast, or can be enjoyed warm with butter.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Whisk together flour, salt and yeast in a large bowl
- 2
Pour in warm water and stir until dough forms a ball
- 3
Cover bowl and let rest in warm place for 8-18 hours until doubled and bubbly
- 4
Heat oven to 450 degrees and place Dutch oven with lid inside for 25-30 minutes
- 5
Punch down dough and dust parchment paper with flour
- 6
Transfer dough to floured parchment and shape into ball by tucking underneath
- 7
Sprinkle dough with flour, cover with plastic wrap and let rest
- 8
Remove hot Dutch oven carefully from oven
- 9
Remove plastic wrap and transfer dough with parchment into Dutch oven
- 10
Slice a few half-inch deep slits into top of dough
- 11
Cover and bake for 40-45 minutes
- 12
Remove cover and bake 10-15 minutes more until dark golden brown
- 13
Transfer bread to wire rack to cool completely before slicing
Tips
Longer rise time up to 18 hours develops better flavor and texture than the minimum 8 hours
Flour your hands generously when handling the sticky dough to prevent it from sticking
Use parchment paper corners as handles to safely transfer dough into the hot Dutch oven
Good to Know
Store covered at room temperature for 3-4 days or freeze wrapped for up to 3 months
Dough can rise in refrigerator for up to 5 days for enhanced flavor
Serve warm or at room temperature, slice only after completely cooled
Common Mistakes
Don't skip the long rise time to avoid dense, underdeveloped bread
Avoid opening oven door during covered baking to prevent steam loss
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I make this without a Dutch oven?
Use any heavy pot with tight-fitting lid, or bake on a stone with a steam pan underneath for similar results.
What if my dough doesn't double in size?
Check yeast freshness and ensure warm environment. Cold temperatures slow rising significantly.
How long does this bread stay fresh?
Best within 2-3 days at room temperature. Refresh day-old bread by warming in 350°F oven for 5 minutes.