Quick 20-Minute Homemade Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Who doesn’t love the smell of fresh, warm bread? This quick and easy recipe will have you enjoying homemade bread in just 20 minutes, with minimal effort. The bread comes out soft, fluffy, and golden brown, making it the perfect side dish for any meal, from soups to salads or even sandwiches. Plus, it’s made with pantry staples, so there’s no need for complex ingredients or hours of preparation. Whether you're a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced baker, this recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup milk

• ¼ cup vegetable oil

• 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)

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

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a loaf pan.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

3. Pour in the milk and vegetable oil, and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.

4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead gently for 1-2 minutes until it comes together.

5. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan.

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

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

8. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add herbs or spices: To make this bread even more flavorful, you can add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder to the dough.

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

• Sweet Bread: Add a touch more sugar (about 2 tablespoons) and a pinch of cinnamon to make a lightly sweet bread, perfect for breakfast.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To keep it fresh longer, you can freeze the bread for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply place slices in a toaster or wrap the whole loaf in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until warm.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture will be denser, and you may need to adjust the liquid slightly.

Can I make this bread without baking powder?

Baking powder is essential for the rise in this recipe. You can’t substitute it directly with baking soda, but you could try a self-raising flour blend that includes baking powder.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The bread is done when it's golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, you can substitute vegetable oil with olive oil, canola oil, or even melted coconut oil.

What can I serve this bread with?

This bread pairs wonderfully with soups, stews, salads, and even as a sandwich base. It also goes great with butter, jam, or cheese!

Can I make this bread in a different pan?

Yes, you can use a different pan, but make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. If you use a round or square pan, check the bread a few minutes earlier.

Can I add raisins or nuts to this bread?

Certainly! You can fold in raisins, walnuts, or even sunflower seeds for added texture and flavor.

Is this bread good for sandwiches?

Yes, the bread is soft and sturdy enough to hold fillings, making it perfect for sandwiches.

Can I make this bread in advance?

This bread is best eaten fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container for a day or two. For longer storage, freeze it and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I make this bread without butter?

Yes, if you prefer a dairy-free option, you can skip the butter or use a plant-based alternative like margarine or olive oil.

Conclusion

This 20-Minute Homemade Bread is a quick, easy, and delicious recipe that yields fluffy, golden-brown bread in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a great way to bring fresh bread to your table in under 30 minutes. With endless variations and a perfect texture, this bread will become a staple in your kitchen for every occasion!