Description
A hearty, crusty no-knead whole wheat bread with a chewy interior and rich, nutty flavor. This easy, hands-off recipe delivers bakery-style bread using simple ingredients and time, perfect for home bakers seeking wholesome artisan bread with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon instant or active dry yeast
Wet Ingredients
- 1½ cups warm water
Instructions
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and yeast thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and seasoning.
- Add water and form dough: Pour in the warm water and stir until a sticky, shaggy dough forms. This dough will be wet and sticky, which is typical for no-knead bread.
- First rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let the dough rise at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours. The long fermentation develops flavor and gluten structure without kneading.
- Shape the loaf: Turn the dough out onto a generously floured surface and gently shape it into a round loaf. Avoid overworking the dough to maintain its airy texture.
- Rest the dough: Place the shaped dough on a piece of parchment paper and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax and rise slightly before baking.
- Preheat the oven and Dutch oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a heavy Dutch oven inside to heat up. This creates a steam environment for crusty bread.
- Bake covered: Carefully transfer the dough along with the parchment paper into the hot Dutch oven. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes to trap steam and achieve a soft crumb.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the lid and continue baking the bread for another 10–15 minutes, until the crust is deep golden brown and crisp.
- Cool the bread: Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and cool it completely on a wire rack. Cooling helps set the crumb and improves slicing quality.
Notes
- Dough will be sticky—this is normal for no-knead bread and contributes to a chewy crumb.
- Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to avoid a gummy texture inside.
- You can sprinkle seeds or oats on the dough before baking for added texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American / European-inspired