Description
This Crockpot Bread Recipe offers a simple and hands-off way to bake a delicious homemade loaf using a slow cooker. With basic pantry ingredients, you mix, knead, and let the dough rise before slow cooking to achieve a golden, soft bread perfect for any meal. Optional herbs, seeds, or cheese can be added for extra flavor.
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 thoroughly to ensure the yeast and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: Gradually pour the warm water and olive oil into the dry mixture. Stir gently until a dough begins to form. Use your hands if necessary to bring together the ingredients. If the dough feels too dry, add additional warm water one tablespoon at a time.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, being careful not to add too much to keep the dough soft.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the kneaded dough back into the mixing bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough gently to release air. Shape it into a loaf that will fit comfortably inside your crockpot.
- Grease the Crockpot: Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking, then place the shaped dough inside. Cover with the crockpot lid.
- Cook the Bread: Set the slow cooker to the high setting and cook the bread for 2 to 3 hours. Check periodically for doneness. The bread is done when its top is golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve: Carefully remove the bread from the crockpot and transfer it to a wire cooling rack. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter, cheese, or your preferred spreads.
Notes
- Ensure the water is warm but not hot to properly activate the yeast (around 110°F or 43°C).
- You can add herbs, seeds, or cheese directly on top of the shaped dough before cooking for added flavor and texture.
- If your crockpot runs hot, keep a close eye on the bread to avoid burning.
- The bread crust from the crockpot will be soft rather than crispy, which is typical for this cooking method.
- Letting the bread cool completely before slicing can help maintain its shape and texture.
