3 Ingredient Bread Recipe: Simplicity at Its Best

There’s something beautifully simple about bread. At its core, it doesn’t need much—just flour, water, and patience. But if you’re looking for a no-fuss, beginner-friendly recipe that requires just three essential ingredients (plus time and a little love), you’re in the right place.

Whether you’re new to bread baking or just craving something quick and easy, this 3-ingredient bread recipe proves that sometimes, less is truly more.

Why Make a 3-Ingredient Bread?

In a world full of complex recipes and specialty ingredients, there’s something refreshing about going back to basics. This bread is:

✅ Minimalist & Pantry-Friendly – You likely already have everything you need.
✅ No Kneading Required – A simple mix, rest, and bake approach.
✅ Versatile – Works as a side, sandwich base, or toasted with butter and jam.

Plus, it’s a great reminder that delicious bread doesn’t have to be complicated. With just flour, yeast, and water, you can create a rustic, hearty loaf that feels like a warm hug.

How to Make the 3-Ingredient Bread

What You’ll Need

🥖 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chewiness)
🌊 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F, just warm to the touch)
✨ 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

Optional: A pinch of salt (to enhance flavor, but if you want a true 3-ingredient bread, leave it out!).

How to Make It

1. Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it gets foamy. This means the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!

2. Mix in the Flour

Add the flour to the bowl and mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. It will look rough and sticky—that’s okay! No need to knead. Just cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest.

3. Let It Rise

Place the covered bowl in a warm spot (like near a sunny window or inside an oven with the light on) and let the dough rise for 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

4. Shape & Second Rise

Once risen, gently scrape the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a rough ball (or oval, if using a loaf pan). Transfer it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a greased loaf pan. Let it rest for another 30–45 minutes while your oven preheats to 400°F (200°C).

5. Bake to Perfection

Place the dough in the hot oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

6. Cool & Enjoy

Resist the urge to slice right away! Let it cool for at least 20 minutes so the inside can finish setting. Then, enjoy with butter, honey, or your favorite spreads.

Ways to Make It Your Own

✨ Add-ins: Mix in herbs, shredded cheese, or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor.
🔥 Crusty Artisan Style: Bake in a preheated Dutch oven for a crackly crust.
🍞 Soft Sandwich Loaf: Use a loaf pan and brush the top with melted butter after baking.

Final Thoughts: Bread at Its Purest

This 3-ingredient bread recipe is proof that great bread doesn’t need fancy ingredients—just time, patience, and a love for baking. It’s a fantastic starter recipe for beginners and a trusty go-to for anyone who appreciates simplicity in the kitchen.

Have you ever baked bread with just three ingredients? Share your experience in the comments below! And if you’re looking for more foolproof bread recipes, stay tuned—next time, we’re diving into the art of no-knead overnight bread!