Simple Slow Cooker Bread Recipe

This Simple Slow Cooker Bread Recipe is for those who love homemade bread but don’t love spending a day in the kitchen. Let’s get started!

Simple Slow Cooker Bread Recipe

Time Required:

1. Prep Time:
   • Mixing and kneading: 15 minutes
2. First Rise:
   • Dough rise in bowl: 1 hour
3. Second Rise:
   • In slow cooker before turning it on: 30 minutes
4. Cook Time:
   • In slow cooker on High: 2 to 2½ hours
5. Cooling Time (before slicing):
   • 30 minutes

Total Time:

• Minimum: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Maximum: 4 hours 45 minutes

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional, for a slightly sweeter bread)
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (plus more for greasing)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
   • Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. (Or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 4–5 minutes.)
2. Let it Rise:
   • Form dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
   • Line the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker with parchment paper. Lightly grease the parchment.
4. Second Rise:
   • Place the risen dough into the slow cooker and shape it into a round loaf. Cover and let rise in the slow cooker (turned off) for another 30 minutes.
5. Cook the Bread:
   • Turn the slow cooker to High.
   • Cook for 2 to 2½ hours, or until the top is set and the bottom is golden and sounds hollow when tapped.
     • (Check after 1½ hours to avoid overcooking.)
   • Optional: If you want a golden crust, place the cooked loaf under a broiler for 2–3 minutes, watching closely.
6. Cool:
   • Remove bread and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

RELATED: Slow Cooker Banana Bread Recipe

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