Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to adore about Bread in 20 Minutes. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Quick and Easy : From start to finish, this bread is ready in just 20 minutes—no long rises or kneading required.
- Minimal Ingredients : All you need is flour, yeast, salt, water, and olive oil—pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
- Fresh and Flavorful : There’s nothing like the taste and smell of warm, homemade bread straight from the oven.
- Customizable : Add herbs, seeds, or cheese to suit your taste and make it your own.
- Perfect for Busy Days : Ideal for those nights when you’re short on time but still want something homemade and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this speedy bread lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 tablespoon dried herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or oregano)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to whip up your own fresh, warm bread in under 20 minutes? Follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) . Place a baking sheet or cast iron skillet in the oven to heat up while you prepare the dough.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, and salt.
- Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 1–2 minutes, just until smooth. Avoid overworking the dough—it doesn’t need to be perfect!
Step 3: Shape the Bread
- Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf. If desired, sprinkle the top with seeds, herbs, or cheese for added flavor and texture.
- Use a sharp knife or razor blade to make a shallow slash across the top of the loaf. This helps the bread expand evenly during baking.
Step 4: Bake the Bread
- Carefully transfer the shaped dough onto the preheated baking sheet or skillet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes , or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
- Transfer the bread to a wire rack and let it cool slightly before slicing.
- Slice and serve warm with butter, olive oil, or your favorite toppings. Enjoy the aroma and flavor of freshly baked bread!
Why This Recipe Works So Well
The magic of Bread in 20 Minutes lies in its simplicity and clever use of high heat. By skipping the traditional rise and using a hot oven, the bread develops a crispy crust and soft interior in record time. The minimal ingredients ensure a pure, wholesome flavor, while optional add-ins allow you to customize the loaf to your liking. Together, these elements create a bread that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.
Variations to Try
While the classic version is divine, here are some creative ways to switch things up:
- Herb Bread : Add dried rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for a fragrant twist.
- Cheesy Bread : Fold shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or feta into the dough for a rich, indulgent loaf.
- Seeded Bread : Sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or oats on top before baking for added texture.
- Gluten-Free Option : Use gluten-free flour to make this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions.
- Flatbread Style : Flatten the dough into a disc and bake for 8–10 minutes for quick flatbreads perfect for sandwiches or dipping.
Enjoy.