How to Build a Simple API with Bolt.new in Under 1 Hour

Building APIs can often feel overwhelming, especially for indie hackers and solo founders who are juggling multiple projects. But what if I told you that you can whip up a simple API in under an hour using Bolt.new? In 2026, this tool has evolved to streamline the process, making it more accessible than ever for those of us who aren’t full-time developers.

Prerequisites

Before diving in, make sure you have the following:

• Basic understanding of JavaScript: Familiarity with syntax and functions will help.
• Node.js installed: This is essential for running the Bolt.new environment.
• A Bolt.new account: You can sign up for free at Bolt.new.
• A code editor: VS Code is a great free option.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Setting Up Your Bolt.new Environment

1. Sign in to your Bolt.new account.
2. Create a new project: Click on "New Project" and select the template for a simple API.
3. Choose your settings: You can customize your project name and select a preferred language (JavaScript is the default).

Step 2: Define Your API Endpoints

1. In the index.js file, you’ll see a basic setup. Start by defining your API endpoints. For example:

   app.get('/api/hello', (req, res) => {
       res.json({ message: 'Hello, World!' });
   });
   

2. This code snippet creates a simple endpoint that responds with a JSON message.

Step 3: Test Your API

1. Run your project: Use the "Run" button in the Bolt.new interface.
2. Open the provided URL in your browser or use a tool like Postman to test your endpoint.
3. You should see the JSON response: {"message": "Hello, World!"}.

Step 4: Add More Functionality

1. Expand your API by adding more endpoints. For instance:

   app.post('/api/data', (req, res) => {
       const data = req.body;
       // Process your data here
       res.json({ received: data });
   });
   

2. This adds a POST endpoint that can accept data.

Step 5: Deploy Your API

1. Bolt.new offers integrated deployment options. Click the "Deploy" button.
2. Follow the prompts to get your API live. It will provide you with a URL to access it publicly.

Expected Outputs

Once you’ve followed these steps, you should have a fully functional API that can handle GET and POST requests.

Troubleshooting

• Issue: Your endpoint doesn’t respond as expected.

  • Solution: Check your code for syntax errors and ensure that you’ve defined your endpoints correctly.

• Issue: Deployment fails.

  • Solution: Ensure your account is verified and that you have followed all necessary steps in the Bolt.new interface.

What's Next

Once your API is up and running, consider adding authentication, connecting to a database, or integrating with other services. This will enhance its functionality and make it more robust for real-world applications.

Conclusion

Building a simple API with Bolt.new is not only possible but also straightforward. In just under an hour, you can create a functional API that serves real purposes. If you're new to coding or just want to get something up quickly, this is the way to go.

Start here: Dive into Bolt.new, follow the steps above, and you’ll have your first API ready to go in no time.