Easy 4-Ingredient French Bread: No Kneading, Ready in 1 Hour

Get recipe: French Bread

This recipe for soft and chewy French bread is remarkably efficient, taking just one hour from start to finish, including baking time. Unlike traditional bread recipes, which often require a lengthy and complex process, this method is designed for simplicity and speed. You won’t need to activate the yeast separately; instead, you mix it directly with the other ingredients. There’s also no kneading involved, a step that can be labor-intensive and time-consuming. Additionally, there is no need to wait for hours to let the dough proof, which is typically required to develop the flavors and texture of the bread.

The magic behind this quick and easy French bread lies in its simplicity. With only four ingredients—flour, water, yeast, and salt—you can produce a loaf that is just as delicious and satisfying as those that require more time and effort. These common pantry staples come together in a way that produces a bread with a perfect balance of a soft interior and a chewy crust, ideal for sandwiches, side dishes, or enjoying on its own with a bit of butter.

The process begins by mixing all the dry ingredients together in a large bowl. This includes the flour, yeast, and salt. The yeast used in this recipe is instant yeast, which can be added directly to the dry ingredients without needing to be proofed in warm water first. This saves a significant amount of time and reduces the risk of errors that can occur with traditional yeast activation. Once the dry ingredients are thoroughly combined, warm water is added gradually, and the mixture is stirred until a rough dough forms. This dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Next, the dough is left to rest for a brief period. This resting time allows the yeast to start working, causing the dough to rise slightly even without the extended proofing period typical of other bread recipes. While the dough is resting, you can preheat your oven to a high temperature, usually around 450°F (230°C), which is necessary to achieve the bread’s characteristic crusty exterior.

Once the resting period is over, the dough is shaped into a loaf or divided into smaller portions if you prefer to make rolls or baguettes. It’s then placed on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly floured surface. The bread is baked in the preheated oven for about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the size and shape of your loaf, until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

The result is a beautifully baked French bread with a soft and chewy texture inside and a crispy crust on the outside. This bread is not only perfect for family meals but also an impressive addition to any gathering. Its quick preparation time and minimal ingredient list make it a foolproof option for both novice bakers and seasoned cooks looking for a reliable and speedy bread recipe.

In summary, this no-knead, four-ingredient French bread recipe is a game-changer for home bakers. It eliminates the need for complex steps and lengthy waiting times, allowing you to enjoy freshly baked bread in just one hour. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a special occasion, or simply to enjoy a delicious homemade loaf, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.