20-Minute Homemade Bread Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick, simple, and incredibly satisfying. No need for yeast, kneading, or long rising times—just mix, bake, and enjoy! With minimal ingredients and a short baking time, you can have fresh, soft bread ready in no time. Whether you enjoy it with butter, jam, or as a side to your favorite dish, this bread is sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup milk

• ¼ cup vegetable oil

• 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for brushing)

(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 or line it with parchment paper.

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

3. Add the milk and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.

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

5. Shape the dough into a round loaf or divide it into smaller rolls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

6. Brush the tops with melted butter for a golden finish.

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

8. Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Herbed Bread: Add 1-2 teaspoons of your favorite dried herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or oregano) to the dry ingredients for a flavorful twist.

• Cheese Bread: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan) to the dough before baking for a cheesy delight.

• Sweet Bread: Increase the sugar to 2 tablespoons and add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a sweeter bread that pairs well with breakfast or desserts.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh at room temperature for 2-3 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven for a few minutes.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, until warm.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the bread may turn out denser. You might need to add a little extra liquid to compensate.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure to follow the instructions on the flour package for best results.

3. Can I substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative?

Absolutely! You can use almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk instead of regular milk in this recipe.

4. Do I need to knead the dough for a long time?

No, just knead the dough for about 1 minute. Over-kneading can lead to a denser texture, so be gentle!

5. Can I add other ingredients like garlic or onions?

Yes, feel free to add garlic, onion, or other spices for extra flavor. Just chop them finely and mix them into the dough.

6. What should I do if my dough is too dry?

If the dough feels too dry, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it reaches the right consistency—soft and slightly sticky, but not too wet.

7. Can I make this bread ahead of time?

This bread is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make it ahead and store it for up to 2-3 days. Warm it up before serving for the best texture.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients to make more bread. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if making a larger loaf.

9. Can I use a loaf pan instead of a baking sheet?

Yes, you can bake this bread in a loaf pan. Just make sure to grease the pan and check the bread at the 15-minute mark for doneness.

10. Why does my bread sound hollow when tapped?

A hollow sound means the bread is fully baked and has the perfect texture. If it doesn’t sound hollow, bake it a little longer.

Conclusion

This 20-Minute Homemade Bread recipe is the perfect solution when you're craving fresh bread without the long wait. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you'll have a delicious loaf ready to enjoy in no time. Whether you’re making it for a quick snack, a side dish, or to complement your main course, this bread is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.