20-Minute Homemade Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Who doesn’t love the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the house? What makes this 20-minute bread even better is how quick and easy it is to prepare. There’s no waiting for dough to rise, and no complicated techniques involved. Just mix, knead, and bake! It’s a perfect recipe for busy days when you want homemade bread without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile—add your favorite herbs, cheese, or garlic to elevate the flavor and make it your own.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1 cup milk

• ¼ cup vegetable oil

• Optional: herbs, cheese, or garlic for flavor

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

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking sheet.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until well combined.

3. Add the milk and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.

4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about 1 minute until smooth.

5. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.

6. Optionally, score the top with a knife for a decorative touch.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

8. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

This bread is incredibly adaptable. Here are a few ideas to customize it to your taste:

• Cheese Bread: Add ½ cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite variety) to the dough for a cheesy twist.

• Herb Bread: Mix in dried or fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a savory flavor.

• Garlic Bread: Add minced garlic or garlic powder to the dough for a delicious, garlicky bite.

• Sweet Bread: For a sweeter option, increase the sugar to 2 tablespoons and add a touch of cinnamon for a soft, sweet treat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, you can freeze it. Simply wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warm. Alternatively, slice it and toast individual pieces in a toaster.

FAQs

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The bread is ready when it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you have a kitchen thermometer, the internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C).

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may result in a denser texture. You might want to use a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for the best balance.

Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?

Yes, olive oil is a great substitute for vegetable oil, and it can add a bit of extra flavor to the bread.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this bread ahead and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze it for longer storage.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but be sure to check the instructions on your flour package for any adjustments to liquids.

What type of baking powder should I use?

Regular baking powder works best for this recipe. Make sure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make two loaves of bread. Just be sure to bake each loaf separately for the best results.

Can I add sweeteners like honey or maple syrup?

You can experiment with a small amount of honey or maple syrup to replace the sugar, but keep in mind that it might affect the texture slightly.

What’s the best way to slice this bread?

For the cleanest slices, let the bread cool slightly before slicing. A serrated knife will give the best results for cutting through the soft bread without squishing it.

Can I use this recipe for making bread rolls instead of a loaf?

Yes! Simply divide the dough into small portions, shape them into rolls, and bake them for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

Conclusion

This 20-Minute Homemade Bread is a quick, easy, and delicious solution for fresh bread without the long wait. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have warm, fluffy bread in no time. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish, for sandwiches, or just with a bit of butter, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy the comfort of homemade bread in minutes!

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