Quick Soft and Fluffy No‑Knead Bread Loaf

Instructions:

1. Mix the dough:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar (if using). Pour in the warm water and olive oil, then mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until everything is combined into a sticky dough.

No kneading is necessary — just mix until the flour is incorporated. The dough will look a little shaggy and soft, and that’s exactly what you want.

2. Let it rise:

Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm spot for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

3. Prepare your loaf pan:

Grease a standard 8×4 or 9×5-inch loaf pan with a bit of oil or butter.

After the dough has risen, gently deflate it with a spatula. Transfer the dough into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with the spatula or the back of a spoon.

4. Second rise:

Let the dough rest in the loaf pan for another 20–25 minutes, uncovered, while you preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

5. Bake the bread:

Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped. You can also insert a thermometer in the center — it should read about 190–200°F (88–93°C) when done.

6. Cool and serve:

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely (if you can wait!). Slice and enjoy!

Serving Ideas:

• Toast it with butter and jam for breakfast.
• Use it for grilled cheese or classic BLT sandwiches.
• Cube it up and make homemade croutons.
• Serve warm with a bowl of soup or stew.
• Make the ultimate French toast the next morning!

Tips for Success:

• Use warm water, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
• For a more rustic loaf, dust the top with a little flour before baking.
• Want extra flavor? Add rosemary, minced garlic, or cheddar to the dough before baking.
• To make it even softer, brush the top with melted butter right out of the oven.

Why You’ll Make This Again and Again:

This Quick Soft and Fluffy No-Knead Bread Loaf is everything a great homemade bread should be — easy, satisfying, and made with ingredients you already have in your kitchen. It requires minimal effort, yet tastes like it came from an artisan bakery. And once you realize how simple it is to make, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought bread again.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a simple, no-fail, no-knead bread recipe that yields a soft and fluffy loaf every time, this is it. It’s the kind of bread that makes every sandwich better, every breakfast cozier, and every meal feel homemade. Quick, easy, and irresistibly good — try it today and enjoy the comfort of fresh-baked bread at home.

Want to try it with a twist? Add in your favorite herbs or shredded cheese next time and make it your signature loaf!