Quick and Easy Homemade Bread in Just 20 Minutes: Fresh, Fast, and Foolproof

When I want homemade bread but don’t have hours to spare, I whip up this quick and easy 20-minute bread. It’s warm, soft, and freshly baked—all without yeast, kneading, or rise time. Whether I need something to go with soup or just crave a fresh slice with butter, this recipe saves the day.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this bread comes together with pantry staples and no waiting. It’s ready to bake as soon as I mix it, and it tastes amazing straight from the oven. The texture is soft inside with a light golden crust, and it pairs with everything—from breakfast to dinner. It’s the perfect go-to when I want fresh bread fast.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Salt

• Sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)

• Milk (or a mix of milk and water)

• Olive oil or melted butter

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish or cast iron skillet.

2. In a mixing bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.

3. I add the milk and oil, then stir until a soft dough forms—no kneading required.

4. I transfer the dough to the prepared pan and spread it evenly.

5. I bake for 15–20 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. I let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6–8 slices. It takes just 5 minutes to mix and 15–20 minutes to bake—on the table in under 25 minutes total.

Variations

• I sometimes mix in shredded cheese, herbs, or garlic powder for extra flavor.

• A drizzle of honey or maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness.

• For a crustier top, I brush with melted butter before baking and again right after.

• I shape it into flat rounds for a quick skillet bread or mini loaves for easy serving.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers wrapped in foil or an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, I toast slices or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes. I avoid microwaving—it softens the crust too much.

FAQs

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I use plant-based milk like almond or oat, and swap the butter for olive oil or vegan margarine.

Does this taste like traditional yeast bread?

It’s more like a quick bread—soft and slightly dense with a mild flavor. It won’t rise like yeast bread but still satisfies the craving for something fresh-baked.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. I double all ingredients and bake in a larger dish. I just add 5–10 more minutes to the baking time.

What flour works best?

I use all-purpose flour, but I’ve also made this with half whole wheat for a more rustic feel.

Can I make this on the stovetop?

Yes, I divide the dough into flat pieces and cook them in a hot skillet for 3–4 minutes per side—like a quick griddle bread.

Conclusion

This quick and easy homemade bread is my go-to when I want something fast, fresh, and delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and no rising time, I can enjoy warm bread any time the craving hits. It’s perfect for last-minute meals, busy weeknights, or whenever I want homemade comfort in a flash.

Quick and Easy Homemade Bread in Just 20 Minutes: Fresh, Fast, and Foolproof

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• Author: Linda
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 slices
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This quick and easy homemade bread is soft, fluffy, and ready in just 20 minutes—no yeast, no kneading, no rising. Perfect for busy weeknights, this fast bread recipe uses pantry staples and delivers warm, fresh-baked flavor every time.

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Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar (optional)
• ¾ cup milk (or half milk, half water)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish or skillet.

2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.

3. Add milk and olive oil. Stir just until a soft, shaggy dough forms.

4. Spread dough evenly into the prepared pan.

5. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

6. Let cool a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

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Notes

• Brush with butter before and after baking for a softer crust.
• Add herbs, garlic, or shredded cheese to customize.
• Shape into flat rounds for skillet bread.