Need fresh homemade bread in a hurry? This easy 20-minute bread recipe is perfect when you’re short on time. It requires no yeast, no rising, and uses simple pantry ingredients. The result is a soft, fluffy loaf with a golden crust that’s perfect alongside soups, stews, or served with butter and jam.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 20 minutes
- No yeast or proofing required
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
- Soft inside with a golden, crisp crust
- Easy to customize with herbs, cheese, or seeds
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ¾ cup milk
- ¼ cup olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
Step 3
Add the milk and olive oil (or melted butter). Stir until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
Step 4
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
Step 5
Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf and place it on the prepared baking tray.
Step 6
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped.
Step 7
Allow the bread to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Best Bread
- Measure the flour accurately using the spoon-and-level method.
- Mix the dough only until combined to keep the bread soft.
- Check the bread after 15 minutes, as oven temperatures may vary.
- Let the bread cool slightly before slicing for the best texture.
Delicious Variations
Herb Bread
Add 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dry ingredients.
Cheesy Bread
Mix in ¼ cup shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan cheese.
Seeded Bread
Brush the top with olive oil and sprinkle with sesame, flax, or poppy seeds before baking.
Sweet Bread
Replace the olive oil with melted butter, add 2 tablespoons of honey, and sprinkle the top with cinnamon sugar.
Storage
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze individual slices for up to 3 months and reheat in a toaster or oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes. For a lighter texture, use a 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour.
Do I need a loaf pan?
No. This dough holds its shape well on a baking tray.
Can I freeze the bread?
Yes. Slice it first, wrap the slices individually, and freeze for easy reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This bread pairs well with:
- Soups and stews
- Pasta dishes
- Salads
- Garlic butter
- Cheese spreads
- Jam or honey
Final Thoughts
This quick bread recipe is perfect for busy days when you want fresh homemade bread without waiting for dough to rise. With just a few basic ingredients and 20 minutes, you can enjoy a warm, fluffy loaf that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable.
