Name: Bread in 20 Minutes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; ¾ cup milk; ¼ cup olive oil or melted butter

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the ultimate time-saver for anyone who loves fresh, homemade bread but doesn’t have the luxury of waiting for dough to rise. The secret to its quick prep time is the use of baking powder instead of yeast, which allows the bread to rise instantly while still achieving a soft, tender texture. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious loaf with a golden crust and a light, airy interior. Plus, it’s so easy to customize—add herbs or spices to elevate the flavor even more. No waiting, no fuss, just a quick and tasty bread solution!

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
¾ cup milk
¼ cup olive oil or melted butter

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

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
Add the Wet Ingredients: Pour in the milk and olive oil (or melted butter). Stir until a soft dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead for about 1 minute until smooth.
Shape the Dough: Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
Score the Dough: Use a sharp knife to score the top of the dough lightly. This helps the bread bake evenly and gives it a rustic look.
Bake the Bread: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm with butter, jam, or your favorite spread!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6 slices

Variations

Herb-Infused: Add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder to the dough for extra flavor.
Cheese: Mix in some shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, for a cheesy twist.
Sweet Version: For a sweeter bread, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough, or sprinkle cinnamon and sugar on top before baking.
Whole Wheat: Substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier version of this bread.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes, or microwave for 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?

Yes, you can substitute almond milk or any other plant-based milk in this recipe. Just make sure to choose an unsweetened variety for the best flavor.

2. Can I make this recipe without sugar?

Yes, you can omit the sugar if you’d like. The bread will still turn out delicious, though it may be less sweet if you’re used to a sweeter loaf.

3. Can I add more ingredients to the dough?

Absolutely! You can add mix-ins like chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or nuts to create a more savory or unique loaf.

4. Can I use this recipe for sandwich bread?

While this bread is perfect for slicing, it may not have the same soft texture as traditional sandwich bread. However, it will work well for quick sandwiches or as a side with soups and salads.

5. Can I make this bread ahead of time?

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

6. Can I freeze this bread?

Yes, you can freeze this bread. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

7. Can I make this with whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. The texture may be slightly denser, but it will still be delicious.

8. How can I make the bread softer?

For a softer texture, add an extra tablespoon of oil or butter to the dough. You can also brush the top with melted butter after baking to give it a soft, golden finish.

9. Can I add yeast instead of baking powder?

This recipe is designed for quick bread using baking powder, which doesn’t require rising time. If you prefer to use yeast, you’ll need to adjust the recipe and allow for proofing time.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just be sure to divide the dough into two loaves and bake them on separate baking sheets, as they need space to rise and bake evenly.

Conclusion

This “Bread in 20 Minutes” recipe is a game-changer for anyone who wants fresh, homemade bread without all the waiting. It’s quick, easy, and versatile, making it the perfect solution for busy days when you need something comforting and delicious. Whether you’re enjoying it with a meal, as a snack, or just because you want some warm, fresh bread, this recipe will become your go-to in no time.