Name: Quick 20-Minute Homemade Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon instant yeast; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.75 cup warm water (about 110°F); 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

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Introduction

This quick homemade bread recipe delivers a warm, soft loaf in just 20 minutes. Perfect for when you want fresh bread without the long rise times, it’s simple to prepare and delicious served warm with butter or your favorite toppings.

The image shows a sliced loaf of bread with a golden-brown crust dusted with a light layer of white flour. The bread is cut into three pieces, revealing a soft, airy, and slightly moist interior with small holes. The front slice is lying flat, showing its textured crumb, while the other two pieces are stacked behind on a white plate. In the blurred background, there is a small wooden board with cut pieces of yellow butter. The bread and butter rest on a smooth, white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon instant yeast
1 teaspoon salt
0.75 cup warm water (about 110°F)
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Instructions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
Step 2: Add the flour, salt, and olive oil or melted butter to the bowl. Stir until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Shape the dough into a loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Let the dough rest for 5 minutes while preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 5: Brush the top of the loaf with additional olive oil or melted butter for a golden crust, then bake for 15 minutes until golden brown.
Step 6: Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

For a softer crust, brush the bread with melted butter after baking instead of before.
Add herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for extra flavor.
Use warm milk instead of water for a richer taste and texture.
If you prefer a crispier crust, place a small oven-safe dish of water in the oven while baking to create steam.

Storage

Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil for up to 1 month. Reheat by toasting slices or warming the whole loaf in a 350°F oven for 5–10 minutes.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a loaf of rustic bread with a golden-brown crust dusted lightly with flour. One thick slice is cut from the loaf and placed in front, showing the light, airy, and soft white inside with an open crumb structure. Behind the loaf, there is a small white plate with a few blocks of yellow butter. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with soft, natural lighting highlighting the textures of the bread. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, but you’ll need to dissolve active dry yeast in warm water with the sugar and let it sit until frothy before mixing with the dry ingredients. This usually takes about 10 minutes.

Why does my bread come out dense?

Be sure your yeast is fresh and active, and avoid using water that’s too hot or too cold. Stirring just until the dough comes together without overmixing will help keep the bread soft and light.