There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh bread baking, but sometimes I just don’t have the time (or patience) for long rising times and complicated steps. That’s why I love this quick 20-minute bread recipe. It’s soft, fluffy, and perfect when I need fresh bread on the table fast. Whether I’m serving it alongside soup, making sandwiches, or just craving warm bread with butter, this recipe never lets me down.
Let me show you why this bread works so well and how easy it is to make from scratch in just minutes.
Why This Recipe Works
This bread comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor or texture. Here’s why I love it:
- No yeast, no long waits: It’s a quick bread that uses baking powder for instant rise.
- Soft and tender: Perfect for slicing and slathering with butter or jam.
- Only basic pantry ingredients: No fancy supplies needed.
- Customizable: You can add herbs, cheese, or garlic for variations.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals: From mixing bowl to oven in minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Makes one loaf | Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
Optional add-ins: grated cheese, fresh herbs, garlic powder, or seeds
How I Make Bread in 20 Minutes (Step-by-Step)
1. Preheat and Prep
I preheat my oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients
I pour in the milk and oil (or melted butter) and stir until just combined. The dough will be slightly sticky but easy to work with.
4. Shape and Bake
I turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, shape it into a round loaf, and place it on the prepared baking sheet. For a rustic look, I score the top with a knife.
5. Bake
I bake the loaf for about 20 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Slice
I let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Warm slices with melted butter are pure magic.
My Favorite Tips for Perfect Quick Bread
- Don’t overmix: Stir until just combined to keep the bread tender.
- Add flavor: A handful of shredded cheese or chopped herbs can make this even more delicious.
- Check for doneness: If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last few minutes of baking.
- Enjoy warm: This bread is at its absolute best fresh from the oven.
- Double the batch: It disappears fast, so sometimes I make two loaves!
What I Serve with Quick 20-Minute Bread
This bread is so versatile. Here’s how I love to enjoy it:
- With hot soups like tomato or chicken noodle
- Warm with butter and honey for breakfast
- As a base for open-faced sandwiches or avocado toast
- Alongside pasta or salad for a complete meal
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour?
A: You can, but the texture will be denser. I recommend using half all-purpose and half whole wheat for balance.
Q: Can I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container for up to two days. Warm it slightly in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I make rolls instead of a loaf?
A: Absolutely! Just divide the dough into equal portions and bake for 12-15 minutes.
Why This 20-Minute Bread Deserves a Spot in Your Recipe Collection
This bread is proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen to enjoy warm, homemade comfort. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy days when you want something fresh and satisfying. Whether you’re pairing it with dinner or enjoying it on its own, this recipe will quickly become one of your kitchen staples — just like it has in mine.
The Easiest 20-Minute Bread Recipe for Warm, Homemade Comfort
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Add the flour to the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
- Pour in the milk and vegetable oil (or melted butter) and stir until a soft dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead gently for about 1 minute.
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased bread pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing.
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