Name: No-Knead Gluten-Free Garlic Herb Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum, or add 2 tsp separately); 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast; 1 1/4 cups warm water; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 3 cloves garlic, minced or roasted; 1 tbsp dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano, or parsley); 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp sugar or honey

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This loaf is incredibly easy to make—no kneading, no stand mixer, no stress. It’s naturally gluten-free and full of flavor thanks to the blend of herbs and garlic. Whether you’re serving it with soup, using it for sandwiches, or enjoying it warm with a smear of butter, this bread delivers on taste and texture. Plus, it uses simple ingredients and is a great starter recipe for beginner bakers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum or add it separately)
Instant yeast
Warm water
Olive oil
Salt
Garlic (freshly minced or roasted for deeper flavor)
Dried or fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, oregano, or parsley)
Apple cider vinegar (helps with rise and texture)
Sugar or honey (to activate the yeast)

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar (or honey), and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Stir in olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, garlic, and herbs.
Add the gluten-free flour gradually and stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a thick batter forms.
Cover the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours until slightly puffy.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If using a Dutch oven or cast iron pot, place it in the oven while preheating.
Once preheated, transfer the dough into a greased or parchment-lined baking dish or into the hot Dutch oven.
Smooth the top with wet hands or a spatula and optionally brush with olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs.
Bake for 35–45 minutes or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 1 medium loaf (about 8–10 slices).
Prep time: 15 minutes
Rise time: 1 hour
Bake time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 55 minutes

Variations

Add shredded cheese like parmesan or mozzarella to the dough for a cheesy herb loaf.
Use roasted garlic for a milder, deeper flavor.
Incorporate chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
Switch herbs based on your favorite blend—try Italian seasoning or dill.
Top with seeds like sesame or poppy for a crunchy crust.

Storage/Reheating

Store the loaf wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze slices for up to 2 months.

To reheat, toast slices in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes. You can also warm individual slices in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of butter or olive oil.

FAQs

Can I use a gluten-free flour without xanthan gum?

You can, but you’ll need to add xanthan gum separately—about 1 teaspoon per cup of flour—to help with structure and texture.

Why doesn’t this dough need kneading?

Gluten-free doughs don’t develop gluten strands, so kneading isn’t necessary. Stirring is enough to combine the ingredients.

Can I make this bread vegan?

Yes, this bread is naturally vegan as long as you use a plant-based sweetener like sugar or maple syrup.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, fresh herbs add vibrant flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried.

My dough didn’t rise—what went wrong?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and your water is warm (not hot). Also, allow enough time for rising in a warm place.

Can I bake this without a Dutch oven?

Absolutely. A loaf pan or any oven-safe baking dish works. The Dutch oven simply gives a crispier crust.

How do I know when the bread is done?

The crust will be golden and firm, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before baking.

What herbs go best in this recipe?

Rosemary, thyme, parsley, oregano, and basil are excellent choices—use what you enjoy most.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients to make two loaves. Just divide the dough evenly and bake as directed.

Conclusion

This No-Knead Gluten-Free Garlic Herb Loaf is a game-changer for home bakers wanting an easy, flavorful, and gluten-free bread. With no kneading required and minimal effort, you get a crusty, aromatic loaf that pairs with everything from soups to salads—or stands deliciously on its own. Try it once, and it may just become your new favorite bread recipe.