4-ingredient bread is a simple, no-fuss homemade bread that uses just four basic ingredients: flour, yeast, water, and salt. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone who wants fresh bread without a long ingredient list.
Core Ingredients
- Flour – All-purpose or bread flour works best
- Yeast – Active dry or instant yeast to make the dough rise
- Water – Warm, to activate the yeast
- Salt – For flavor
Basic Method
- Mix flour, yeast, salt, and water until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead briefly by hand or with a spoon until smooth.
- Let rise for 1–2 hours, until doubled in size.
- Shape into a loaf or boule.
- Bake at 375–425°F (190–220°C) for 25–40 minutes, until golden brown.
Tips
- Slightly stale bread flour can improve texture.
- Using a Dutch oven helps create a crisp crust.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to avoid a gummy interior.
This bread is soft, crusty, and naturally delicious despite only having four ingredients.
I can also provide a step-by-step recipe with exact measurements for a foolproof loaf if you want.