Who says you need hours to bake fresh, homemade bread? This 20-Minute Bread is a game-changer for busy days when you’re craving the aroma and taste of freshly baked bread but don’t have the time for traditional recipes. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal hands-on effort, you can enjoy warm, crusty bread in under half an hour. Whether you’re making it for sandwiches, soups, or just buttery toast, this quick bread recipe will become your new go-to. Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Minimal Ingredients: Only requires pantry staples like flour, yeast, and water.
- No Kneading Needed: A quick mix and shape are all it takes—no hours of kneading or rising.
- Customizable: Add herbs, cheese, or seeds for extra flavor and texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for a chewier texture)
- 1 tsp instant yeast (or active dry yeast)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter for richness)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/4 cup chopped herbs (rosemary, thyme, or oregano)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a baking sheet or cast-iron skillet in the oven to heat up while you prepare the dough.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Mix the Dough
- Add the warm water and olive oil (or melted butter) to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- Use your hands to bring the dough together into a rough ball—it doesn’t need to be smooth or perfect.
3. Shape the Bread
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently shape it into a round loaf or oval, depending on your preference.
- If adding seeds or toppings, brush the top of the dough with a little water and sprinkle them on evenly.
4. Score and Bake
- Carefully remove the hot baking sheet or skillet from the oven. Transfer the shaped dough onto it.
- Use a sharp knife or razor blade to make 1–2 shallow slashes on top of the dough to allow for expansion during baking.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
5. Cool and Serve
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm with butter, olive oil, or alongside your favorite soup or salad.
