This Quick 20-Minute Homemade Bread is perfect for those times when you crave fresh, warm bread but don’t want to spend hours kneading and waiting for dough to rise. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can have a soft, buttery loaf ready in no time. It’s ideal for sandwiches, toast, or simply slathered with butter and jam.
Ingredients
(Makes 1 small loaf)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk (whole milk or any milk of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (or olive oil for a dairy-free option)
Optional:
- Extra melted butter for brushing on top after baking
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Grease a loaf pan (8×4 inches or similar size) with butter or nonstick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour , sugar , baking powder , and salt until well combined. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and sweetness throughout the bread.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl or measuring cup, combine the milk and melted butter (or olive oil). Stir gently to blend.
- Form the Dough
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a soft, sticky dough forms. Be careful not to overmix—just combine until the flour is fully incorporated.
- Shape and Transfer
- Use a spatula or floured hands to transfer the dough into the prepared loaf pan. Gently press it down and smooth the top for an even shape.
- Bake
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes , or until the bread is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- For extra flavor, brush the top of the warm bread with additional melted butter.
Tips for Success
- Add-Ins: Customize your bread by folding in herbs (like rosemary or thyme), grated cheese, or even chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the toaster or microwave before serving.
- Double the Batch: This recipe doubles easily if you want to make two loaves—one to enjoy now and one to share or freeze for later.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Quick 20-Minute Homemade Bread is simplicity at its finest. With no yeast or rising time required, it’s incredibly beginner-friendly and perfect for busy days when you still want homemade goodness. The result is a soft, slightly sweet loaf with a tender crumb that pairs beautifully with both savory and sweet toppings. Whether you’re whipping it up for breakfast, dinner, or a snack, this bread is sure to become a go-to recipe.
Enjoy the aroma and taste of freshly baked bread without the hassle—it’s comfort food made easy!
