There’s something oddly satisfying about fresh bread, especially when you didn’t have to wrestle with dough for hours. This no knead bread in the air fryer delivers that magic with a fraction of the fuss. It’s about catching that moment when you want warm, fragrant bread but don’t want to commit to the usual kneading and long baking. The air fryer speeds things up without sacrificing the crusty, soft texture we all crave.
I remember the first time I tried this—half distracted by a buzzing phone and some half-finished laundry, I almost forgot to check on the dough. The kitchen smelled like a bakery by then, and my dog was giving me that hopeful look. I pulled out the bread, still warm and golden, and sliced a piece. It wasn’t perfect—some uneven crumb here and there—but honestly, the rustic imperfection made it taste even better. That first bite, with butter melting into the crumb, was worth every little mishap.
- It’s impressively quick, taking less than an hour from start to finish, which is a game-changer on busy days.
- No kneading means less mess and zero intimidation—even if you’re not a seasoned baker.
- The air fryer gives it a crusty exterior while keeping the inside soft and chewy, a balance that’s surprisingly tricky to get with other quick breads.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. Don’t expect the same rise or fluffiness as traditional loaves, but it’s perfect for everyday bread needs.
If you’re worried about getting the texture just right, don’t stress too much. This recipe is forgiving, and the dough’s sticky, loose nature means you can’t really overwork it. Just keep an eye on the air fryer timing since models vary, and you might want to check the bread a few minutes early the first time.
PrintNo Knead Bread in Air Fryer
A simple and easy no knead bread recipe made quickly in the air fryer, perfect for fresh homemade bread without the hassle of traditional kneading and long baking times.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon instant yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
1 teaspoon olive oil (for greasing)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Add 3/4 cup warm water to the dry ingredients and mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms. Do not knead.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest at room temperature for 1 hour until it has risen and looks bubbly.
After the dough has risen, lightly flour a clean surface and gently shape the dough into a round loaf without kneading.
Lightly grease a small, oven-safe baking dish or cake pan that fits inside your air fryer basket with 1 teaspoon olive oil.
Place the shaped dough into the greased dish and cover loosely with a kitchen towel. Let it rest for another 20 minutes to rise slightly.
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes.
Place the baking dish with the dough inside the air fryer basket. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Carefully remove the bread from the air fryer and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
For equipment, you really only need the air fryer and a small oven-safe dish that fits inside. No fancy gadgets necessary. When serving, I like to slice this bread and toast it lightly, then rub with garlic and drizzle with olive oil—simple, but it elevates the loaf. You could also add herbs or cheese sprinkled on top before air frying, though I haven’t tested all these variations thoroughly, so results might vary a bit. Sometimes, I toss in some whole wheat flour to add a bit more texture, but it changes the cook time slightly. Feel free to experiment, but maybe don’t expect bakery perfection just yet.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but the bread will be denser and may need a bit longer to cook through.
What if my bread isn’t rising much? Make sure your water isn’t too hot or cold—it should be warm to the touch, around 110°F. Also, give it enough time to rise in a warm spot.
Can I double the recipe? You can, but you’ll need a bigger dish or might have to bake it in batches.
Is the crust really crispy? It’s crisp on the outside but still soft enough to enjoy without being tough.
Ready to try this no knead bread in the air fryer? Save this recipe, scroll back when you’re craving fresh bread, and enjoy the simple magic of homemade without the hassle.