12 Dutch Oven No Knead Bread Recipes

There’s something magical about making Dutch oven no knead bread recipes—it’s simple, rustic, and makes your whole kitchen smell like a bakery. I remember the first time I tried it; I couldn’t believe I’d created such a crusty, golden loaf with barely any effort! This bread is perfect for beginners or anyone who loves homemade bread without the fuss of kneading. All you need is a bit of time and a trusty Dutch oven.

If you’re like me and love using your Dutch oven for everything, you might also enjoy trying Dutch oven camping dinner recipes. There’s nothing quite like the versatility of this kitchen (or campfire!) staple. Whether at home or out in nature, this no-knead bread pairs beautifully with soups, stews, or even a cozy breakfast spread.

Tips for Perfect No-Knead Bread Every Time

Be Patient: No-knead bread relies on a long resting time to develop flavor and texture. Give the dough at least 12-18 hours to rise.
Use a Hot Dutch Oven: Preheating the Dutch oven is key to achieving a crisp crust and a perfectly baked loaf.
Sticky Dough Is Normal: Don’t worry if your dough is sticky; that’s how it should be for no-knead recipes.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to customize your bread by adding herbs, spices, seeds, or dried fruits.
Let It Cool: Cooling the bread before slicing is important. This allows the crumb to set and makes it easier to slice.

1. Simple No-Knead Dutch Oven Bread Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Serve: 1 loaf

This simple no-knead Dutch oven bread is the perfect starting point for anyone new to baking. It’s a beginner-friendly recipe that doesn’t require any fancy equipment, just a few basic ingredients. The result is a soft, airy bread with a crispy golden crust.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast.
2. Add the warm water to the dry ingredients and mix until the dough comes together. It will be sticky, and that’s okay!
3. Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rest for 12-18 hours at room temperature. The dough should rise and become bubbly.
4. Preheat your Dutch oven by placing it in the oven at 450°F (232°C) for about 30 minutes.
5. Once the dough has risen, gently shape it into a ball by folding the edges toward the center.
6. Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven and place the dough inside. Cover it with the lid.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the lid and bake for another 15 minutes until the bread is golden brown.
8. Let it cool before slicing and serving.

2. No-Knead Artisan Bread

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 50 minutes | Serve: 1 loaf

This no-knead artisan bread brings the texture and flavor of a rustic bakery loaf right into your home. It’s slightly more advanced than the basic no-knead bread but still incredibly easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 3 1/2 cups bread flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups lukewarm water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the bread flour, salt, and yeast.
2. Pour in the lukewarm water and stir until the dough is just combined. The dough will be sticky.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit for 12-18 hours at room temperature.
4. Once the dough has risen and bubbled, lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out.
5. Gently shape the dough into a round loaf, being careful not to deflate it.
6. Preheat your Dutch oven in the oven at 450°F (232°C) for 30 minutes.
7. Place the shaped dough into the hot Dutch oven and cover it with the lid. Bake for 30 minutes.
8. After 30 minutes, remove the lid and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the bread is golden and crispy.
9. Let it cool before slicing.

3. No-Knead Whole Wheat Bread

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 50 minutes | Serve: 1 loaf

Whole wheat bread is a healthier option that still has that soft, delicious texture we love. This no-knead whole wheat bread is simple to make and full of rich flavor.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, salt, and yeast.
2. Add the warm water and stir until the dough forms. It should be slightly sticky.
3. Cover the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise for 12-18 hours.
4. Preheat the Dutch oven at 450°F (232°C) for 30 minutes.
5. Gently shape the dough into a ball and place it into the hot Dutch oven.
6. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the lid and bake for another 15 minutes until the bread is golden brown.
8. Let the bread cool before slicing.

4. Classic No-Knead Boule

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Serve: 1 boule

A boule is a round, rustic-shaped loaf of bread, and this classic no-knead version is as easy as it is delicious. The slightly tangy flavor and chewy texture make it perfect for sandwiches or served with butter.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast.
2. Stir in the warm water and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Cover the bowl with a towel and let it rise for 12-18 hours at room temperature.
4. Preheat the Dutch oven at 450°F (232°C).
5. Gently shape the dough into a round boule and place it into the preheated Dutch oven.
6. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
7. After 30 minutes, remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the bread is golden and crispy.
8. Allow the bread to cool before serving.

5. No-Knead Sourdough Bread

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 50 minutes | Serve: 1 loaf

If you’re a fan of sourdough, you’ll love this no-knead version! The tangy flavor of the sourdough combined with the crispy crust is simply irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups bread flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups sourdough starter
• 1/2 cup warm water

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together the bread flour, salt, and yeast.
2. Add the sourdough starter and warm water, then stir to form a dough.
3. Cover the dough with a towel and let it rise for 12-18 hours.
4. Preheat your Dutch oven at 450°F (232°C).
5. Gently shape the dough into a round loaf and place it in the hot Dutch oven.
6. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
7. After 30 minutes, remove the lid and bake for another 15 minutes.
8. Let the bread cool before slicing.

6. Herb-Infused No-Knead Bread

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 50 minutes | Serve: 1 loaf

This herb-infused no-knead bread is a wonderful way to add aromatic flavors to your bread. It’s perfect to serve with soups, stews, or as a side for pasta dishes.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary (or fresh, chopped finely)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, yeast, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
2. Add the warm water and stir until a sticky dough forms.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for 12-18 hours.
4. Preheat your Dutch oven in the oven at 450°F (232°C) for 30 minutes.
5. Gently shape the dough into a ball and transfer it to the hot Dutch oven.
6. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
8. Let the bread cool before slicing.

7. No-Knead Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 50 minutes | Serve: 1 loaf

A sweet and spiced treat, this no-knead cinnamon raisin bread is perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. The raisins and cinnamon add just the right amount of sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons sugar

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, yeast, cinnamon, and sugar.
2. Stir in the raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
3. Add the warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rise for 12-18 hours.
5. Preheat your Dutch oven at 450°F (232°C).
6. Shape the dough into a loaf and transfer it to the preheated Dutch oven.
7. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the lid and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden.
9. Let the bread cool before slicing.

8. No-Knead Garlic and Rosemary Bread

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 50 minutes | Serve: 1 loaf

This no-knead garlic and rosemary bread is savory, fragrant, and pairs wonderfully with a hearty dinner or a simple olive oil dip.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups bread flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, yeast, garlic, and rosemary.
2. Add the warm water and stir to form a sticky dough.
3. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise for 12-18 hours.
4. Preheat the Dutch oven at 450°F (232°C).
5. Gently shape the dough into a round loaf and place it into the hot Dutch oven.
6. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the lid and bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown.
8. Let the bread cool before slicing.

9. No-Knead Rustic Country Bread

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 50 minutes | Serve: 1 loaf

This rustic country bread has a thick, crunchy crust and a soft interior, perfect for sandwiches or alongside soups and stews.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups bread flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups lukewarm water

Instructions:

1. Combine the flour, salt, and yeast in a large bowl.
2. Add the lukewarm water and mix until the dough is well combined.
3. Cover with a towel and let it rise for 12-18 hours.
4. Preheat your Dutch oven at 450°F (232°C).
5. Shape the dough into a loaf and carefully place it into the hot Dutch oven.
6. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the lid and bake for another 20 minutes until the crust is beautifully golden.
8. Let it cool completely before slicing.

10. No-Knead Multigrain Bread

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 50 minutes | Serve: 1 loaf

This multigrain bread is packed with nutrients and texture. It’s a healthy and delicious choice for breakfast or sandwiches.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup flaxseeds
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water

Instructions:

1. Mix the flour, oats, seeds, salt, and yeast in a large bowl.
2. Stir in the warm water until the dough comes together.
3. Cover with plastic wrap and let the dough rise for 12-18 hours.
4. Preheat the Dutch oven at 450°F (232°C).
5. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it into the hot Dutch oven.
6. Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the lid and bake for another 15-20 minutes.
8. Cool the bread before slicing.

11. No-Knead Rye Bread

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 50 minutes | Serve: 1 loaf

Rye bread has a distinct flavor and dense texture that’s perfect for sandwiches or as a base for savory spreads. This no-knead rye bread recipe simplifies the process while delivering amazing results.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup rye flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water
• 1 tablespoon caraway seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, rye flour, salt, and yeast. If using caraway seeds, add them in.
2. Pour in the warm water and stir until the dough comes together. The dough will be sticky.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for 12-18 hours.
4. Preheat your Dutch oven at 450°F (232°C) for 30 minutes.
5. Shape the dough into a loaf and carefully place it into the hot Dutch oven.
6. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the crust is dark and crispy.
8. Allow the bread to cool before slicing.

12. No-Knead Potato Bread

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 50 minutes | Serve: 1 loaf

Potato bread is soft, moist, and slightly sweet. The potato adds a wonderful texture and flavor, making it a family favorite for sandwiches or toast.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup mashed potatoes (unsalted, cooked and cooled)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, mashed potatoes, salt, and yeast.
2. Slowly add the warm water, mixing until the dough comes together. It will be sticky, and the potatoes should blend evenly into the dough.
3. Cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rise for 12-18 hours at room temperature.
4. Preheat the Dutch oven at 450°F (232°C) for 30 minutes.
5. Gently shape the dough into a loaf and transfer it to the hot Dutch oven.
6. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the lid and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden.
8. Let the bread cool completely before slicing.

Final Thoughts

Baking no-knead bread in a Dutch oven is one of the easiest and most satisfying ways to enjoy homemade bread. These recipes are perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike, with a wide variety of flavors and styles to choose from. Whether you prefer the simplicity of a rustic loaf, the sweetness of cinnamon raisin bread, or the hearty taste of multigrain or rye, there’s a recipe here for everyone.

So grab your Dutch oven, some flour, and a bit of patience, and get ready to enjoy the heavenly aroma of fresh bread wafting through your kitchen. Once you try these no-knead recipes, you’ll never look at store-bought bread the same way again!