Quick 20-Minute Homemade Bread

Soft, Fluffy, and Perfect for Busy Days

Introduction

There’s something deeply comforting about the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen. For many people, homemade bread feels like a weekend project—something that requires yeast, hours of rising, and a lot of patience. But what if you could enjoy warm, tender bread in less time than it takes to run to the store?

This Quick 20-Minute Homemade Bread recipe is here to change the way you think about baking bread at home. Made with simple pantry staples and no yeast at all, this recipe delivers a soft, lightly sweet loaf with a golden crust in just about 20 minutes of baking time. It’s perfect for beginners, busy families, or anyone craving fresh bread right now.

Whether you serve it warm with butter, toast it for breakfast, or use it as a side for soups and salads, this bread is reliable, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

This bread isn’t just fast—it’s genuinely delicious and endlessly practical. Here’s why so many home bakers fall in love with it:

1. No Yeast, No Waiting

Unlike traditional bread recipes, this one uses baking powder instead of yeast. That means no rising time, no kneading, and no worrying about whether your yeast is still active. Mix, bake, and enjoy.

2. Ready in About 20 Minutes

From mixing bowl to oven to table, this bread comes together incredibly quickly. It’s ideal for last-minute meals, unexpected guests, or weeknights when time is tight.

3. Simple Pantry Ingredients

You likely already have everything you need: flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, milk, and butter or oil. No specialty items required.

4. Beginner-Friendly

If you’re new to baking, this recipe is forgiving and easy to follow. No complicated techniques, no fancy equipment—just straightforward steps with dependable results.

5. Versatile Flavor

This bread has a mild, slightly sweet taste that works beautifully with both savory and sweet toppings. Customize it easily with herbs, cheese, or spices.

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Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this quick homemade bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
  Provides structure and softness. Spoon and level for best results.
• 2 tablespoons sugar
  Adds a subtle sweetness and helps with browning.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
  The key leavening agent that makes the bread rise quickly without yeast.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
  Balances flavor and enhances the overall taste.
• 1 cup milk
  Adds moisture and tenderness. Whole milk works best, but low-fat milk can also be used.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (or olive oil)
  Adds richness and keeps the bread soft. Olive oil works well for a slightly savory flavor.

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Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time:

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a standard loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. This helps distribute the baking powder evenly for a consistent rise.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients
   Pour in the milk and melted butter (or olive oil). Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until a sticky, thick batter forms.
   Tip: Do not overmix—stir just until no dry flour remains. Overmixing can make the bread dense.
4. Transfer to the Pan
   Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly.
5. Bake
   Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve
   Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy warm, toasted, or at room temperature.

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Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Try one of these easy variations to change things up:

1. Garlic Herb Bread

Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or rosemary) to the dry ingredients. Brush the top with melted butter after baking.

2. Cheesy Quick Bread

Stir in 1/2 to 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan) before baking for a savory loaf.

3. Sweet Cinnamon Bread

Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon to the dry ingredients and increase sugar to 1/4 cup. Great for breakfast or snacks.

4. Whole Wheat Version

Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Add 1–2 extra tablespoons of milk if the batter feels too thick.

5. Dairy-Free Option

Use plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy) and olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free loaf.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this bread without sugar?

Yes. The sugar adds mild sweetness and helps with browning, but you can reduce it to 1 tablespoon or omit it entirely if needed.

Why is my bread dense?

Dense bread usually comes from overmixing or expired baking powder. Mix gently and check that your baking powder is fresh.

Can I bake this in a different pan?

Yes. You can use a smaller loaf pan, muffin tin, or even a round cake pan. Adjust baking time accordingly—smaller portions will bake faster.

How should I store this bread?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze this bread?

Absolutely. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

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Nutrition Information & Timing

Estimated Nutrition (per slice, based on 10 slices)

• Calories: ~140
• Carbohydrates: ~24g
• Protein: ~4g
• Fat: ~3g
• Fiber: ~1g
  Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.

Prep & Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes

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Final Thoughts

This Quick 20-Minute Homemade Bread proves that homemade baking doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy fresh, warm bread whenever the craving strikes.

Whether you’re serving it alongside soup, using it for sandwiches, or enjoying a slice with butter and jam, this bread delivers comfort, convenience, and great flavor every time. Keep this recipe bookmarked—you’ll reach for it again and again.

Happy baking! 🍞

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