A simple, no-oven bread recipe for soft, homemade bread made right in your slow cooker.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional toppings: Herbs, seeds, or shredded cheese
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients
- Gradually pour in the warm water and olive oil, stirring until the mixture forms a dough.
- Knead the Dough
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise
- Place the dough back in the mixing bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare for Cooking
- After rising, shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased slow cooker.
- Cook the Bread
- Cover with the slow cooker lid and cook on high for 2–3 hours, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve
- Carefully remove the bread from the slow cooker and place it on a wire rack to cool. Slice and enjoy!
Variations:
- Flavorful Add-Ins: Mix in dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano), garlic powder, or grated cheese into the dough for extra flavor.
- Seed Topping: Sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or sunflower seeds on top before cooking.
- Whole Grain Version: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier bread.
- Sweet Bread: Add 2 tablespoons of sugar or honey to the dough and top with cinnamon for a sweet twist.
Tips:
- Warm Water Temperature: Ensure the water is between 105–110°F (40–43°C) to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Check for Doneness: Use a thermometer to ensure the bread’s internal temperature is at least 190°F (88°C).
- Crispier Crust: After slow cooking, place the bread in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5–10 minutes to crisp up the crust.
- Avoid Lifting the Lid: Keep the lid closed during cooking to maintain consistent heat.
- Storage: Wrap leftovers in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Enjoy the ease and satisfaction of fresh, homemade bread straight from your crockpot!