Easy No-Knead Kefir Bread – Soft Crumb, Rustic Crust

This No-Knead Kefir Bread is the kind of recipe you make once and then keep coming back to, especially on busy days. There’s no kneading, no complicated steps, just a bowl, a spoon, and a bit of patience. Kefir does most of the work here, it adds moisture, a gentle tang, and helps create a soft, tender crumb with a beautiful rustic crust.

The dough comes together quickly and looks slightly sticky, which is exactly what you want. After a slow rest, ideally in the fridge, it develops flavor while you get on with your day. When it bakes, the kitchen fills with that comforting, familiar smell of fresh bread. 

This loaf is perfect for everyday use: sliced thick with butter, toasted the next day, or served alongside soups and stews. It’s not a fancy bakery bread, but an honest, homemade one, the kind that feels good to make and even better to share. If you’re new to bread baking or just want something effortless and reliable, this kefir bread is a lovely place to start.

How to make no-knead kefir bread

Begin with combining the flour, salt, and yeast in a bowl. Add the kefir and honey and stir until all the flour is fully hydrated. The dough will be a bit sticky, this is normal.

Cover the bowl with cling film or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for 12–24 hours. The longer it rests, the more flavor will develop.

When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 470°F (240°C) with a baking stone or Dutch oven inside. If you don’t have either, use a baking sheet and preheat it for at least 30 minutes. If using a baking stone or baking sheet, place a small oven-safe pot of water on the bottom of the oven to create steam. A Dutch oven does not require extra steam, as the lid traps moisture.

Remove the dough from the fridge. Lightly flour your hands and work surface, then gently shape the dough into a rough loaf, no kneading required. Score the top with a bread lame or sharp knife.

Carefully transfer the dough to the preheated Dutch oven, baking stone, or the back of the hot baking sheet. Bake covered for 20–25 minutes.

Remove the lid, reduce the oven temperature to 440°F (230°C), and bake for another 15–20 minutes without steam, until deeply golden brown.

Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and enjoy.

Hope you will try this easy no-knead kefir bread. If you do, don’t forget to share the photos with me on Instagram. I would love to see how it turns out for you.

Other easy bread recipes you may like to try

Try this Easy No-Knead Bread with a soft crumb and crisp crust. It is an easy, reliable recipe made with minimal effort and basic ingredients.

If you like focaccia you have to try this fluffy No-Knead Focaccia made with olive oil and a golden crust. An easy overnight bread topped with herbs, perfect for sharing.

If you love cheese try this Easy No-Knead Cheese Bread with a soft interior and crisp crust. It is packed with melted cheese and full of flavor, no kneading required.

Try this Easy Greek Yogurt Bread with a soft crumb and light tang. It is a simple loaf made with no-yeast and everyday ingredients.

For more bread ideas check our full collection of Bread Recipes. If you like savory bread recipes check out our collection of 25 Homemade Bread Recipes.

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