Quick Description
This 20-Minute Homemade Bread is soft, fluffy, and incredibly easy—no long rising times or complicated steps. Made with simple pantry ingredients and instant yeast, it’s perfect when you need fresh bread fast. Ideal for beginners, last-minute meals, or warm bread straight from the oven.
Servings & Timing
Serves: 6–8 slices or 6 small rolls
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Rise Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: ~20 minutes
Ingredients List
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp instant yeast
- ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F / warm to the touch)
(Optional: 2 tbsp melted butter or oil for extra softness)
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or baking sheet. -
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. -
Add Milk
Pour in warm milk (and optional butter/oil if using). Stir until a soft dough forms. -
Knead Briefly
Knead the dough for 2–3 minutes until smooth. No heavy kneading required. -
Quick Rise
Let dough rest for 10 minutes in a warm spot. -
Shape & Bake
Shape into a loaf or rolls. Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. -
Cool Slightly & Serve
Let cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Nutrition (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 34g
- Fat: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
Benefits
- Ultra-Fast: Ready in just 20 minutes
- Beginner-Friendly: No complicated steps
- Soft & Fluffy: Perfect everyday bread
- Budget-Friendly: Pantry staples only
Additional Notes
- Milk should be warm, not hot, to activate yeast properly.
- Do not overbake—this bread is meant to stay soft.
- Brush with butter after baking for extra flavor.
Dietary Info
- Vegetarian: ✔️
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant milk
- Gluten-Free: ❌
- Kid-Friendly: ✔️
Brief Introduction
This recipe is perfect for those moments when you want homemade bread without the wait. It’s quick, reliable, and delivers warm, fresh bread every single time.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Mix dry ingredients
- Add warm milk
- Knead briefly
- Rest, bake, enjoy
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- All-Purpose Flour: Bread flour also works
- Sugar: Helps yeast activate quickly
- Instant Yeast: No proofing required
- Milk: Adds softness; water can be used instead
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Variations:
- Add garlic powder and herbs
- Sprinkle cheese on top
- Make mini dinner rolls
Serve With:
- Butter or honey
- Soups and stews
- Sandwiches
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Room Temp: 1–2 days
- Refrigerate: Up to 4 days
- Freeze: Up to 2 months
FAQs
Can I use active dry yeast?
Yes, but dissolve it in warm milk first.
Why didn’t my bread rise?
Milk may have been too hot or yeast expired.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just adjust baking time slightly.
Optional Personal Story
This bread saved me more times than I can count—when dinner needed something extra and there was no time to wait. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to store-bought for quick meals.
Call-to-Action
Save this 20-Minute Homemade Bread recipe for those busy days when you want warm, fresh bread without the wait 🍞✨
