The Easiest “No-Everything” Bread
Prep time: 10 mins | Rise time: 1.5 – 2 hours | Bake time: 20 mins
Ingredients
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3 cups (375g) All-purpose flour or Bread flour
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1 ½ cups (355ml) Warm water (not hot!)
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1 tsp Active dry yeast
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1 tsp Salt
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1 tbsp Sugar (to help the yeast activate)
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2 tbsp Vegetable oil (optional, for a softer crust)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes slightly foamy. Add the salt and flour. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy, sticky dough forms and no dry flour remains.
2. The First Rise
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it sit in a warm, draft-free spot for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size and looks bubbly.
3. Shape the Rolls
Don’t knead! Gently deflate the dough by folding it over itself a few times in the bowl. Heavily flour your work surface and your hands. Tip the dough out and divide it into 8 to 10 equal pieces. Gently tuck the edges under to form rectangular or oval rolls (like in your photo).
4. Second Rise
Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover lightly and let them rest for another 20–30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
5. Bake
If you want a golden shine without eggs or butter, lightly brush the tops with a little water or milk right before baking. Bake for 18–22 minutes until the tops are golden brown and the rolls sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Tips for the Best Results
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Steam is Key: For a professional “bakery” crust, place a small pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven while baking. The steam keeps the bread moist and helps it rise higher.
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Don’t Over-Flour: The dough is supposed to be sticky! Use just enough flour on your hands to handle it; too much extra flour will make the bread dense.
