Description

This easy Crockpot Bread recipe offers a soft, homemade loaf without the need for an oven. Made in a slow cooker, this bread is perfect for those who want warm, fresh bread with minimal effort. The bread features a tender crumb, subtle flavors from garlic powder and Italian seasoning, and can be customized with additions like cheese and chives. Ideal for sandwiches or as a side, this recipe delivers comforting homemade bread using just your slow cooker.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
1 teaspoon fine salt
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (or honey)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning or rosemary (optional)

Wet Ingredients

1 cup warm water (about 105–110°F)
2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)

Other

Nonstick cooking spray
2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the slow cooker: Spray the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. For easier removal of the bread, cut a round piece of parchment paper to line the bottom of the cooker if desired.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, instant yeast, salt, sugar, and if using, garlic powder and dried Italian seasoning or rosemary thoroughly.
Add wet ingredients and form dough: Pour in the warm water and olive oil. Stir the mixture until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic, or knead with a mixer for 4 to 5 minutes.
First rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it on a piece of parchment or directly into the well-greased slow cooker. Cover and let the dough rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 45 to 60 minutes.
Cook the bread: Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook the dough on HIGH for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, until the top seems set and the internal temperature reaches approximately 200°F.
Optional browning: To brown the crust, carefully remove the loaf from the slow cooker and place it on a baking sheet. Broil in the oven for 2 to 4 minutes until golden, watching closely to avoid burning.
Finish and cool: Brush the top of the loaf with melted butter if you like a soft buttery crust. Allow the bread to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing to ensure the crumb sets properly.

Notes

Use a 6-quart slow cooker to achieve the best bread shape and even cooking.
If condensation collects on the lid and drips onto the bread, place a clean kitchen towel under the lid (making sure it does not touch the heating element) to absorb moisture.
For a whole wheat variation, replace up to 1 cup of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and add an extra 1 to 2 tablespoons of water if the dough feels dry.
To make cheesy bread, mix in 1 cup shredded cheddar and 1 tablespoon chopped chives into the dough before the first rise.