20-Minute Homemade Bread

20-Minute Homemade Bread

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🥖 Why This 20-Minute Bread is a Game Changer

  • No yeast, no rise time – Just mix, shape, and bake

  • Pantry-friendly – Made with ingredients you likely have on hand

  • Bakes in a skillet or sheet pan – No fancy tools required

  • Versatile – Serve with soup, salad, dips, or use for sandwiches

  • Perfect for beginners – Foolproof and forgiving

📝 Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tablespoon baking powder

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

  • ¾ cup warm water

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

  • Optional: garlic powder, herbs, shredded cheese, seeds, or oats for topping

🍳 Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl

  • Cast iron skillet, baking sheet, or ovenproof pan

  • Rubber spatula or wooden spoon

  • Oven preheated to 425°F (220°C)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set it to 425°F and place your skillet or pan inside to heat up.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl:

  1. Whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using).

  2. Add warm water and oil. Stir until a sticky dough forms.

  3. Don’t overmix—just until the flour is moistened and it holds together.

Step 3: Shape the Bread

  1. Lightly flour your hands and shape the dough into a round or oval loaf.

  2. Optional: Sprinkle top with herbs, cheese, or seeds.

Step 4: Bake

  1. Carefully remove the hot skillet or pan and place dough inside.

  2. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden on top and a skewer comes out clean.

  3. Let cool slightly before slicing.

🔄 Quick Variations

🌿 Herb & Garlic Bread

Add 1 teaspoon dried herbs and ½ teaspoon garlic powder to the dough.

🧀 Cheesy Crust

Fold in ½ cup shredded cheddar or parmesan for extra flavor.

🥯 Everything Seasoned

Brush top with olive oil and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning before baking.

🌾 Whole Wheat Twist

Use 1 cup whole wheat and 1 cup white flour for added fiber and texture.

🍞 Flatbread Version

Press dough into a thinner round and bake for 10–12 minutes—great for wraps or dipping.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

  • With soups or stews for dunking

  • Alongside summer salads for a hearty touch

  • Used as mini sandwich bases with sliced meats or veggies

  • Toasted with butter and jam for breakfast

  • Sliced into breadsticks and served with marinara

🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight bag for 2 days. Toast before serving.

  • Freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic and foil for up to 1 month.

  • Double the batch and bake two small loaves for busy weeks.

  • Reheat at 300°F in the oven for 5 minutes to refresh texture.

💡 Pro Tips for Bread Success

  • Preheat the pan: This gives you a crusty bottom and better rise.

  • Don’t knead too much: This is a quick bread, so gentle mixing keeps it soft.

  • Customize to your meal: Add rosemary for Italian dishes or cinnamon for breakfast.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use self-rising flour?

Yes! Omit the baking powder and salt if using self-rising flour.

Can I use milk instead of water?

Absolutely. Milk will make the bread a bit softer and richer.

Is this gluten-free?

Not as written, but it works with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I cook this on the stovetop?

Yes—use a covered skillet on medium-low heat. Flip halfway through and cook until browned on both sides.

🍞 More Quick & Easy Bread Recipes

🌟 Final Thoughts

Homemade bread doesn’t have to be a weekend-long project. This 20-Minute Homemade Bread recipe proves that with a few basic ingredients and a hot pan, you can create a crusty, comforting loaf faster than most takeout options.

It’s the kind of recipe that turns ordinary meals into memorable ones—whether it’s a weeknight pasta, a picnic spread, or just a slice with butter by the window. Quick, rustic, and deeply satisfying—this one belongs in your summer rotation.

Don’t forget to share your bread creations using #QuickBreadFix—I’d love to see how yours turns out!

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