Name: Bread in 20 Minutes – The Ultimate Savory Fix for Busy Days Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Western
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; Optional add-ins: herbs, grated cheese, garlic powder; 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

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Introduction

This quick and easy bread recipe is perfect for busy days when you crave fresh homemade bread without the wait. Ready in just 20 minutes, it offers a savory fix that pairs well with any meal or can be enjoyed on its own.

A round loaf of bread with a golden-brown crust is placed on a wooden board. The bread has deep cuts on top forming four sections and is sprinkled with coarse salt. One section is cut off and laid next to the loaf, showing a soft, light inside filled with golden olive oil and garnished with a small green herb sprig. In the background, there is a white bowl with green oil-based dip and a blurred cloth on a wooden table. The setting is warm and rustic with a white marbled texture surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon honey (optional)
Optional add-ins: herbs, grated cheese, garlic powder

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add any herbs or spices now if you are using them.
Step 3: Pour in the milk, olive oil, and honey. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
Step 4: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round or oval about 1 inch thick.
Step 5: Place the shaped dough onto the prepared baking sheet. If you like, score the top with a knife for decoration.
Step 6: Bake for about 15 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 7: Let the bread cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

Add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra aroma and flavor.
Mix in grated cheese such as cheddar or parmesan for a cheesy twist.
Use plant-based milk and olive oil to keep this recipe vegan.
Don’t overmix the batter, as this can make the bread tough instead of soft and tender.

Storage

Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh, warm slices briefly in a toaster or oven before serving. This bread is best enjoyed fresh for optimum texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a round loaf of bread cut in half, placed on a wooden cutting board. The bread has a shiny golden-brown crust sprinkled with coarse salt and sesame seeds on top. Inside, the bread is soft with a light, airy texture and some green herbs scattered throughout. In front of the loaf, a single slice lies flat, topped with a pool of melted butter that shines under the light. Nearby are sprigs of fresh green herbs, a silver knife with a wooden handle resting on the board, a small glass dish of olive oil, and a light gray cloth draped in the background. The setting is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the bread may be denser and require a slightly longer bake time. Consider mixing whole wheat with all-purpose for a lighter texture.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. The texture might vary, so add a binder like xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already contain one.