20-Minute Homemade Bread

Introduction

Have you ever wished you could enjoy fresh, homemade bread without spending hours kneading and waiting for it to rise? With this 20-Minute Homemade Bread recipe, you can have a warm, golden loaf straight from your kitchen in less time than most store-bought options take to toast. Perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or dinner sides, this quick bread delivers flavor, texture, and that irresistible aroma that only fresh bread can provide.

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Ingredients List

You’ll need only a handful of ingredients to make this quick and easy bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 cup milk (or plant-based milk)
• 2 tbsp melted butter (or olive oil)
• 1 large egg

Substitution tips:

• Use whole wheat flour for added fiber and a nuttier flavor.
• Swap milk with almond, oat, or soy milk for dairy-free versions.
• Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.

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Timing

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

This bread is nearly 80% faster than traditional yeast bread recipes, making it ideal for last-minute meals or spontaneous gatherings.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Mix well to ensure even distribution.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, and egg.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Pour wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir until just combined — do not overmix, as this can make the bread dense.

Step 5: Bake

Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter, jam, or as a sandwich base.

Pro tip: For a crispy crust, brush the top with melted butter immediately after baking.

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Nutritional Information (Per Slice, serves 8)

• Calories: 140 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g

This quick bread offers a lighter, homemade alternative to packaged breads with preservatives.

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Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Replace ½ cup flour with whole wheat or oat flour for added fiber.
• Use applesauce instead of butter for lower fat content.
• Add chia seeds, flaxseeds, or sunflower seeds for extra nutrients.
• Incorporate grated zucchini or carrots for a vegetable boost.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with butter, honey, or jam for breakfast.
• Use as a sandwich base with your favorite fillings.
• Pair with soups, stews, or chili for a comforting dinner.
• Toast slices and top with avocado and poached eggs for a hearty brunch.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the dough: Can result in dense bread.
• Not preheating the oven: Leads to uneven baking.
• Using cold milk: Slightly warm milk ensures better rise.
• Skipping parchment or greasing: Can cause sticking.

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Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Store cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, freeze slices for up to 1 month and toast when needed.
• Avoid refrigerating as it can dry the bread out.

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Conclusion

This 20-Minute Homemade Bread proves that fresh, delicious bread doesn’t have to be time-consuming. Quick, easy, and versatile, it’s perfect for any meal or occasion. Try it today, leave your feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more quick homemade recipes!

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FAQs

Q1: Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure baking powder is gluten-free.

Q2: Can I add herbs or cheese?
Absolutely! Herbs, shredded cheese, or spices can be mixed into the batter for extra flavor.

Q3: Can I make this in a muffin tin?
Yes, pour the batter into muffin cups and bake for 12–14 minutes for mini loaves.

Q4: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use a larger pan or bake in two pans to ensure even cooking.

Q5: Is this bread suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it freezes well and can be sliced and reheated as needed.