Description
This Crockpot Bread Recipe offers a simple and hands-off way to bake delicious homemade bread using a slow cooker. With basic pantry ingredients and minimal preparation, it yields a soft, golden loaf perfect for breakfast or snacks. The slow cooking process ensures a moist crumb and flavorful crust without the need to heat up the oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) Active Dry Yeast
- 1 teaspoon Salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups Warm Water (around 110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
Optional Toppings
- Herbs (like rosemary or thyme)
- Seeds (like sunflower or sesame)
- Cheese (like shredded cheddar or parmesan)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, and salt. Mix well to distribute the yeast and salt evenly throughout the flour.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: Gradually pour the warm water and olive oil into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until the dough begins to form. You may need to use your hands to help bring the dough together. If the dough feels too dry, add additional warm water one tablespoon at a time.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle with a little more flour, but avoid adding too much to keep the bread tender.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the kneaded dough back into the bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and leave it in a warm spot for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release the air, then shape it into a loaf that will comfortably fit inside your crockpot.
- Grease the Crockpot: Lightly oil the crockpot insert using olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the shaped dough inside the crockpot and cover it with the lid.
- Cook the Bread: Set the slow cooker to high and cook for 2 to 3 hours. Check occasionally for doneness; the bread is ready when the top is golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped. If it begins to brown too quickly, cover the top loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve: Carefully remove the bread from the crockpot and place it on a wire rack. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter, cheese, or your favorite spreads.
Notes
- Make sure the water is warm but not hot to activate the yeast without killing it.
- You can add herbs, seeds, or cheese on top before cooking for extra flavor and texture.
- Use a kitchen towel to cover the dough during rising to avoid direct drafts that can slow yeast activity.
- This bread is best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- If your crockpot runs hot, check the bread earlier to avoid overcooking.
