4-Ingredient Homemade Bread: Simple, Quick, and Delicious

Imagine warm, fresh bread coming straight out of your oven with just 4 simple ingredients. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is foolproof and perfect for any occasion. It’s quick, easy, and requires no fancy equipment or complicated techniques—everyone can make this bread!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Only 4 Ingredients: No need for extra steps or long lists of ingredients.
Beginner-Friendly: Anyone can make it, even first-time bakers.
No Kneading Required: Save time and effort while still getting fluffy results.
Versatile: Perfect as a side for soups, sandwiches, or just with butter and jam.
Ingredients
3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and instant yeast.
Gradually pour in the warm water (not hot!) and stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy, sticky dough forms.
Step 2: Let It Rise
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
Let the dough rise in a warm place for 2-3 hours until it doubles in size and becomes bubbly.
Step 3: Preheat and Shape
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a Dutch oven or oven-safe pot (with a lid) in the oven to heat.
Lightly flour your work surface and hands. Shape the dough into a round loaf—don’t worry about perfection!
Step 4: Bake the Bread
Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven or pot from the oven and place the dough inside. Cover with the lid.
Bake for 30 minutes with the lid on, then remove the lid and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the crust is golden and crispy.
Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy with butter, jam, or your favorite toppings!
Tips for Success
Warm Water: Ensure the water is between 100-110°F (37-43°C) to activate the yeast properly.
Don’t Overwork: This dough doesn’t need kneading—just a quick mix!
Use a Hot Pot: Preheating your pot or Dutch oven helps create that perfect crispy crust.
Why It Works
The combination of yeast and warm water allows the dough to rise naturally, creating a light, airy crumb. Baking in a covered pot traps steam, resulting in a crisp crust while keeping the interior soft and fluffy.
Conclusion
With just 4 simple ingredients, you can make homemade bread that’s fresh, delicious, and bakery-quality. This recipe is perfect for beginners and bread lovers alike, proving that anyone can enjoy the art of breadmaking with ease.
So, roll up your sleeves, mix up that dough, and let the magic happen. Once you try this recipe, you’ll never want store-bought bread again!