20-Minute Homemade Bread Recipe

Introduction

Bread is one of the oldest and most comforting foods in human history. From rustic loaves baked over open fires to modern-day artisanal creations, bread has always symbolized warmth, nourishment, and sharing. This recipe is a quick, no-yeast bread that can be whipped up in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for beginners, busy families, or anyone craving fresh bread without waiting for yeast to rise. It has a soft interior and a golden crust, delicious on its own or paired with butter, jam, soups, or savory spreads.

Ingredients (for 1 medium loaf)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• ¾ cup warm milk (or water, but milk makes it richer)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• Optional: 1 egg (for extra richness, can be brushed on top as well)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven

• Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.

1. Mix the dry ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Mix well so the baking powder is evenly distributed.

1. Add wet ingredients

• Pour in warm milk and vegetable oil. If using an egg, beat it lightly and mix in. Stir until a soft dough forms.

1. Knead the dough

• Lightly flour a surface and knead the dough for 2–3 minutes. You don’t need to over-knead since there’s no yeast—just enough to bring it together smoothly.

1. Shape the loaf

• Form the dough into a round or oval loaf. Place it onto your baking sheet. For a rustic look, use a sharp knife to score the top with one or two cuts.

1. Bake the bread

• Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown on top. The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

1. Cool slightly and serve

• Let the bread cool for at least 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter, honey, or alongside your favorite meal.

Methods & Variations

• Herb Bread: Add 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the flour.
• Cheesy Bread: Mix in ½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella.
• Garlic Bread: Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder to the dough, or brush with garlic butter after baking.
• Sweet Version: Increase sugar to 3 tablespoons and add ½ teaspoon cinnamon for a dessert-style bread.

History of Quick Breads

Unlike traditional yeast breads that require time to rise, quick breads became popular in the 19th century after the discovery of baking powder. They allowed people to bake fluffy, soft bread in minutes instead of hours. This type of bread is especially common in households where convenience and speed are valued.

Benefits

• Quick & Easy: No yeast, no waiting—perfect for last-minute baking.
• Customizable: Can be made sweet, savory, or plain.
• Budget-Friendly: Requires only pantry staples.
• Beginner-Friendly: Ideal for people learning to bake bread.
• Nutritious Add-ins: Seeds, nuts, whole grains, or herbs can boost nutrition.

Nutrition (per slice, approx. 10 slices per loaf)

• Calories: ~110
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

(Varies depending on milk, oil, or added ingredients.)

Conclusion

This 20-Minute Homemade Bread proves that you don’t need yeast, fancy equipment, or hours of waiting to enjoy the comfort of freshly baked bread. It’s simple, versatile, and ready to adapt to your taste—whether you prefer savory, sweet, cheesy, or herby flavors. For bread lovers, this recipe is a lifesaver: quick enough for weeknights, yet comforting enough for special family moments.