If you’ve always dreamed of baking rustic, golden artisan bread but thought it was too complex, this 3-ingredient artisan bread is the recipe that will change everything. No kneading, no fancy equipment, and no baking experience required. With just flour, yeast, and salt, you can make a beautifully crusty loaf that rivals any bakery — perfect for pairing with soups, cheese boards, or simply slathering in butter.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make 3-Ingredient Artisan Bread
- 3 cups (395g) all-purpose flour or bread flour
- ½ tablespoon kosher salt
- 2¼ teaspoons (or 1 packet) instant or active dry yeast
- 1½ cups warm water (about 105°F or 40°C)
That’s it! These pantry staples come together to form a magic dough that requires zero kneading and minimal hands-on time.
Step-by-Step Instructions 3-Ingredient Artisan Bread
1. Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and yeast. Pour in the warm water and stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t worry about lumps—it should look a bit rough and sticky.
2. First Rise
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it sit at room temperature for about 2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size and is bubbling on the surface.
3. Shape the Loaf
Lightly flour your hands and surface, then turn the dough out onto it. Shape it gently into a ball or oval—don’t knead it. Transfer the dough onto a piece of parchment paper and cover loosely for a 30-minute second rise.
4. Preheat the Oven
Meanwhile, place a Dutch oven with the lid on into your oven and preheat to 450°F (232°C). This ensures the pot is hot enough to create that signature crispy crust.
5. Bake the Bread
Carefully place the dough with the parchment paper into the preheated Dutch oven. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden and sounds hollow when tapped.
6. Cool Before Slicing
Transfer the loaf to a cooling rack and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This allows the inside to set properly.
Why This 3-Ingredient Artisan Bread Recipe Works
This bread bakes beautifully because of the steam created inside the Dutch oven, which gives it a chewy interior and crispy, golden crust. The long resting period also allows gluten to develop naturally, so there’s no need to knead. It’s the perfect entry point for home bakers.
How to Serve and Store The 3-Ingredient Artisan Bread
Freshly baked artisan bread pairs well with soups, pasta, or charcuterie boards. Try it with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, or toast it with garlic and butter for a rustic side. To store, wrap it in a kitchen towel or paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze sliced and reheat in the toaster.
Make It Your Own
Want to get creative? Once you master the basic loaf, try adding flavors like fresh rosemary, roasted garlic, grated cheese, or olives directly into the dough after the first rise. You can also sprinkle oats or seeds on top before baking for texture and visual appeal.
Explore More Homemade Bread Recipes
If you’re inspired by the simplicity of our 3-Ingredient Artisan Bread, you’ll love these other homemade bread recipes from Diamant Recipe. Try the Braided Chocolate Chip Brioche for a rich, buttery loaf studded with chocolate chips—perfect for breakfast or dessert. For a healthier option, the 4-Ingredient Oat Banana Bread combines bananas, oats, eggs, and baking soda into a moist, nutritious loaf. And if you’re looking for a savory twist, the Cottage Cheese Recipe for Air Fryer Baked Potato Skins offers a delightful snack that’s both crispy and creamy. Each of these recipes brings its own unique flavor and texture, expanding your homemade bread repertoire
Final Thoughts About 3-Ingredient Artisan Bread
This 3-Ingredient Artisan Bread proves that delicious, crusty homemade bread doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little patience and a hot oven, you can impress your family (and yourself!) with a rustic loaf that tastes like it came from a European bakery. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a total beginner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.