This easy Crockpot Bread is a game-changer—no oven needed! With just a few pantry staples, you get a soft, flavorful homemade loaf with a golden crust, perfect for beginners or hot days when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen. Add garlic powder and herbs for extra savory flair—it’s warm, fluffy, and smells incredible! 🍞🔥

Here are some tempting examples of fresh-from-the-crockpot bread—golden, crusty, and irresistible: 4 “LARGE” 6 “LARGE” 9 “LARGE” 0 “LARGE” 2 “LARGE”

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus rising)
Cook Time: 2–2.5 hours
Total Time: About 3–4 hours (mostly hands-off)
Servings: 8–10 slices
Calories per serving: Approximately 150–200 kcal

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1½ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1¼ cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional, for savory flavor)
• 1 tbsp dried or fresh herbs (optional, like rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning)

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy and bubbly (this confirms the yeast is active).
2. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, garlic powder, and herbs (if using). Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms, then turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic (it should be slightly tacky but not sticky).
3. First Rise: Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot (slow cooker) with oil or butter. Place the dough ball inside, cover with a clean kitchen towel or the lid (slightly ajar if your crockpot runs hot), and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
4. Shape and Second Rise: Gently punch down the dough to release air. Shape into a round loaf or oval to fit your crockpot. Place back in the greased crockpot, cover, and let rise for another 30–45 minutes.
5. Cook the Bread: Set the crockpot to LOW. Cook for 2–2.5 hours, or until the bread is golden on top, firm, and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom (internal temp around 190–200°F/88–93°C). For a crispier crust, if your crockpot has a browning/sauté feature or you can carefully transfer to broil, cook uncovered for an extra 10–15 minutes (watch closely!).
6. Cool & Serve: Carefully remove the bread (use oven mitts—the crockpot is hot!) and place on a wire rack to cool for at least 20–30 minutes. Slice and enjoy warm with butter, soup, or as a side!

Tips for Success

• Crockpot Size: Works best in a 6-quart or larger round/soval crockpot—adjust shape if needed.
• Crust Texture: Slow cookers don’t crisp like ovens, so the optional broil step helps. For extra crunch, brush the top with melted butter before the final uncovered cook.
• Flavor Variations: Try adding ½ cup shredded cheese, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes to the dough. Or make it sweet by swapping herbs for cinnamon and raisins.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze slices for quick toasting.

This no-fuss crockpot bread is soft, aromatic, and perfect for cozy meals—fresh homemade bread made easy! Enjoy every slice! ✨🍞