Make fresh, homemade bread in just 20 minutes with this quick and easy recipe. Whether you need a last-minute side for dinner or crave warm, soft bread with butter, this recipe will save you time without compromising taste. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can enjoy delicious bread straight from the oven in no time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional, for a slight sweetness)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients – Pour in the warm water, olive oil (or melted butter), and honey (or sugar if using). Stir everything together until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough – Lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough for about 1-2 minutes until smooth. Do not over-knead, as this can make the bread dense.
- Shape the Dough – Form the dough into a round or oval loaf. You can also divide it into smaller portions to make individual bread rolls.
- Bake the Bread – Place the shaped dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Check Doneness – Tap the bread lightly; if it sounds hollow, it’s done. If needed, bake for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Cool Slightly & Serve – Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm with butter, jam, or your favorite toppings.
Tips for Perfect Quick Bread
- Use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour and baking powder for an even quicker version.
- Add herbs like rosemary or garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Brush the top with butter before baking for a golden, flavorful crust.
- If making bread rolls, reduce baking time to around 10-12 minutes.