The Easiest and Cheapest Bread Recipe: No Kneading, No Eggs, No Butter!

INGREDIENTS:

3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

1 tablespoon active dry yeast (or 2 1/4 teaspoons)

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)

Optional: Cornmeal or semolina for sprinkling on the baking sheet

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour , yeast , and salt until evenly combined.

Step 2: Add Warm Water

Pour the warm water into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t worry if it looks messy—it will come together during resting.

Step 3: Let It Rest

Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rest at room temperature for 8–12 hours . This long rest allows the gluten to develop naturally, so no kneading is required. During this time, the dough will rise slightly and become bubbly.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Once rested, lightly flour your work surface and scrape the dough onto it. Handle it gently—don’t overwork it. Shape it into a round loaf or oval batard by folding the edges toward the center.

Step 5: Second Rise

Place the shaped dough onto a piece of parchment paper or a floured baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle some cornmeal or semolina underneath for added texture.

Cover the dough again with a towel and let it rise for another 1–2 hours , or until doubled in size …