Quick 20-Minute Homemade Bread

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen, especially on a cold winter day. The warmth of the oven, the golden crust, and the soft, airy texture make homemade bread one of life’s simple pleasures. But what if you don’t have hours to let the dough rise and bake? That’s where this Quick 20-Minute Homemade Bread recipe comes in.

This traditional bread recipe is designed to be fast, easy, and perfect for winter. Whether you need a quick side for soup, a last-minute snack, or a warm slice to enjoy with butter and jam, this bread will be ready in just 20 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Fast & Easy – Mix and bake with no yeast or rising time.
✔️ Warm & Comforting – Perfect for chilly winter days.
✔️ Traditional Flavor – A simple, time-honored recipe made with pantry staples.
✔️ Versatile – Enjoy with butter, honey, soup, or even use for sandwiches.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
• ¾ cup milk (warm)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for a softer texture)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. This ensures that the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Gradually pour in the warm milk, melted butter, and olive oil. Stir until the mixture forms a soft dough. If the dough feels too dry, add one more tablespoon of milk.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Lightly flour your hands and shape the dough into a round or oval loaf. If you prefer, you can divide the dough into smaller rolls for individual servings.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. If you want a crispier crust, brush the top with a little extra melted butter during the last few minutes of baking.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Let the bread cool for 5 minutes, then slice and serve warm with butter, honey, or your favorite spread.

Tips for Perfect 20-Minute Bread

• Use warm milk – This helps create a softer texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough – Mix until just combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Brush with butter – For a golden, slightly crisp crust, brush melted butter on top before baking.
• Experiment with add-ins – Add herbs, cheese, or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This quick homemade bread pairs well with many winter dishes. Try serving it with:

• Hearty Soups – Enjoy with tomato soup, lentil soup, or chicken stew.
• Butter & Honey – A simple, classic combination that highlights the bread’s soft texture.
• Cheese & Cold Cuts – Slice it thin and serve with cheese, ham, or salami for a rustic snack.
• Garlic Butter – Mix butter with minced garlic and spread on warm slices for a quick garlic bread.

More Delicious Recips

• How to Make Tortillas Without Baking Powder: Step-by-Step Guide
• Sweet Potato Bread: A Step-by-Step Guide to This Delicious Treat

Common Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes! Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture. If using 100% whole wheat, you may need an extra tablespoon of milk to keep the dough soft.

What if I don’t have baking powder?

You can make a substitute by mixing ¼ teaspoon baking soda with ½ teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar.

Can I make this bread dairy-free?

Yes! Use plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk) and substitute butter with olive oil or coconut oil.

Final Thoughts

Homemade bread doesn’t have to take hours. With this quick and simple 20-minute bread recipe, you can enjoy the comforting taste of freshly baked bread anytime. The soft, fluffy texture and rich, buttery flavor make it a great addition to any winter meal, from soups and stews to breakfast and snacks.

This recipe is also a fantastic last-minute option when you need a warm, homemade side but don’t have time for traditional yeast-based bread. Plus, it’s completely versatile—you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, adding herbs, spices, or even cheese for a unique twist.

If you love the tradition of baking bread but don’t want to spend hours kneading and proofing, this recipe is perfect for you. Whether you’re baking for family gatherings, cozy winter nights, or a quick snack, this 20-minute homemade bread will quickly become a favorite.

Now that you have this quick and easy recipe, there’s no reason not to enjoy fresh, warm bread whenever you like. So, preheat your oven, mix up the dough, and in just 20 minutes, you’ll be savoring the taste of freshly baked homemade bread.