Craving fresh, warm bread but don’t want to spend hours kneading dough or waiting for it to rise? This Quick 20-Minute Homemade Bread is here to save the day! With just a handful of simple ingredients and no yeast required, you can have soft, fluffy bread ready to enjoy in less than half an hour. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply slathered with butter, this recipe is a game-changer for busy days when you still want homemade goodness.
Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Yeast, No Waiting : Skip the long proofing process—this bread uses baking powder for quick leavening.
- Simple Ingredients : Made with pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
- Versatile : Use it for sandwiches, as a side for soups, or enjoy it plain with butter or jam.
- Perfect for Beginners : No kneading or special techniques required—just mix, pour, and bake!
Ingredients (Makes 1 Loaf)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
- 2 tablespoons sugar 🍬
- 1 tablespoon baking powder 🍞
- ½ teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1 cup milk 🥛 (whole milk works best, but any type will do )
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (or olive oil for a dairy-free option ) 🧈
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Grease a loaf pan (approximately 8×4 inches) or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl or measuring cup, mix the milk and melted butter (or olive oil). Stir until fully incorporated.
4. Form the Dough
- Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. The dough will be thick and sticky—don’t overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
5. Shape and Bake
- Transfer the dough into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula or your hands (lightly dampen your hands if the dough is too sticky).
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes , or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy warm with butter, jam, or your favorite toppings!
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix : Overworking the dough can lead to a denser texture. Mix just until the ingredients come together.
- Use Fresh Baking Powder : Make sure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise. If it’s been sitting in your pantry for months, test it by adding a small amount to water—if it fizzes, it’s still good!
- Customize Your Bread : Add herbs, cheese, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon and raisins to the dough for a personalized twist.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the toaster or microwave for a fresh-baked taste.
Serving Suggestions
This quick bread is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes:
- Breakfast : Spread with butter, honey, or jam for a sweet treat, or top with avocado and eggs for a savory option.
- Lunch/Dinner : Use it for sandwiches, burgers, or as a side for soups and stews.
- Snacks : Cut into slices and serve with dips like hummus, cheese spread, or marinara sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Quick 20-Minute Homemade Bread proves that you don’t need hours or fancy techniques to enjoy fresh, homemade bread. With its soft, fluffy texture and customizable options, it’s perfect for busy weekdays, last-minute cravings, or whenever you want a comforting slice of bread without the fuss.
So grab your ingredients, fire up the oven, and enjoy the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen in no time. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, side dish, or base for your favorite toppings, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
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