Making fresh bread doesn’t always require hours of kneading and rising. This quick bread in 20 minutes is the perfect solution for busy days when you want something homemade, warm, and delicious on the table without waiting too long. It is soft inside, has a slight crust outside, and pairs beautifully with butter, soup, or even jam. With simple pantry ingredients, this recipe ensures you can enjoy freshly baked bread any time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp sugar (optional for mild sweetness)
- 1 cup plain yogurt or buttermilk
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water (as needed for dough consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease or line a baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar until combined.
- Add yogurt (or buttermilk), olive oil, and vinegar to the dry mix and stir gently until a dough forms. Add a little water if the dough feels too dry.
- Transfer the dough to the prepared pan, shaping it into a round or loaf shape.
- Place in the oven and bake for about 18–20 minutes until golden on top and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.
Servings
This recipe makes 6–8 slices, enough for 3–4 servings.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 165
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
Notes
This bread is best enjoyed fresh on the same day, but it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, wrap and refrigerate, then reheat slightly before serving.
Tips
Use buttermilk for a richer flavor and softer crumb.
If you prefer savory bread, add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder to the dough.
For a sweeter variation, mix in a handful of raisins or chocolate chips before baking.
Always avoid overmixing the dough to keep the bread light and tender.
Health Benefits
This bread avoids yeast, making it lighter on the stomach and quicker to prepare. Using yogurt or buttermilk adds probiotics that support digestion. Olive oil provides healthy fats beneficial for heart health. Whole-grain flour can be substituted to increase fiber content, making it even more filling and nutritious.
Q & A
Q: Can I make this bread without an oven?
A: Yes, you can cook it on a stovetop skillet with a lid over low heat, though the texture will be slightly different.
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
A: Yes, but replace only half with whole wheat for a balanced texture; otherwise, the bread may become dense.
Q: How do I know the bread is fully baked?
A: Insert a toothpick or skewer in the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.
Q: Can I freeze this bread?
A: Yes, slice and wrap tightly before freezing. Reheat in the oven or toaster before serving.
Q: Is this bread suitable for vegans?
A: Yes, replace yogurt with non-dairy yogurt or plant-based buttermilk (almond milk + lemon juice) and use olive oil instead of butter.
This quick bread in 20 minutes is the ultimate go-to recipe when you want something homemade, healthy, and satisfying without waiting for yeast to rise. It proves that bread baking doesn’t have to be complicated, and with a few simple steps, you can enjoy a warm, flavorful loaf anytime.