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Slow Cooker Bread Recipe

4.8 from 394 reviews

This Slow Cooker Bread recipe offers a simple and hands-off way to prepare homemade bread using a slow cooker. By combining basic ingredients like bread flour, yeast, salt, and warm water, the dough is left to rise overnight and then cooked gently in a slow cooker to create a soft, tender loaf. For those who prefer a golden, crispy crust, a quick broil finishes the bread perfectly, making it a convenient and delicious option for fresh bread without the need for an oven.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups bread flour
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 envelope)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups warm water (105-115°F)

Instructions

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, instant yeast, and salt using a whisk to blend evenly. Slowly pour in the warm water while stirring with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a cohesive dough ball.
  2. Let Dough Rise Overnight: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and leave it on the counter at room temperature for 8 to 18 hours to allow the dough to ferment and rise slowly.
  3. Prepare Slow Cooker: Line the bowl of a 6-quart slow cooker with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removing the bread easier after cooking.
  4. Shape Dough: Turn the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface. Using well-floured hands, flatten the dough into a 9-inch circle, then fold it over itself and shape it into a tight ball. Place the shaped dough into the lined slow cooker.
  5. Set Up Lid and Cook: Place a double layer of paper towel under the slow cooker lid to absorb condensation and prevent water from dripping onto the bread. Set the slow cooker on high and cook the bread for 2 hours, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 190°F, indicating the bread is fully cooked.
  6. Remove Bread: Carefully lift the bread out of the slow cooker using the edges of the parchment paper.
  7. Optional Broiling for Crust: The bread will have a light, soft crust when done. For a crispy, golden crust, place the bread under a broiler for 5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  8. Cool Before Slicing: Transfer the bread to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Using parchment paper prevents the dough from sticking to the slow cooker.
  • Paper towels under the lid absorb moisture to keep the bread’s crust from becoming soggy.
  • The slow cooker temperature may vary, so checking the internal temperature with a thermometer ensures proper doneness.
  • Broiling is optional and adds a crispy finish but should be watched carefully to prevent burning.
  • Warm water is essential to activate the yeast properly; ensure it’s within 105-115°F.

Keywords: slow cooker bread, no-knead bread, homemade bread, easy bread recipe, overnight bread dough, slow cooker recipes