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No-Knead Whole Wheat Bread Recipe


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4.3 from 24 reviews

  • Author: Alice
  • Total Time: 18 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (about 1.5 pounds)
  • Diet: Vegan

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. Bake uncovered: Remove the lid and continue baking the bread for another 10–15 minutes, until the crust is deep golden brown and crisp.
  9. 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