20-Minute Homemade Bread Recipe

Ingredients (Makes 1 Loaf)

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1 cup warm water

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Grease a loaf pan or baking dish with olive oil or line with parchment paper.

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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a large bowl, whisk together:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour

  • 2 teaspoons baking powder

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 tablespoon sugar

This ensures even distribution before adding the wet ingredients.

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Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

• Make a well in the center of the flour mixture.

• Pour in 1 cup warm water and 2 tablespoons olive oil.

• Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until dough begins to come together.

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Step 4: Knead the Dough

• Lightly flour your hands and surface.

• Knead the dough for 2–3 minutes until smooth and elastic. (This isn’t yeast bread, so you don’t need long kneading.)

• If dough feels sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour.

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Step 5: Shape the Dough

• Form the dough into a loaf shape.

• Place into your prepared loaf pan or shape into a free-form round and place on a baking sheet.

• Use a sharp knife to lightly score the top (helps steam escape and makes it look beautiful).

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Step 6: Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

• To check doneness, tap the bottom of the loaf — it should sound hollow.

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Step 7: Cool and Serve

• Allow bread to cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

• Serve warm with butter, jam, soup, or use for sandwiches.

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Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overmix – Mix until just combined to keep the bread soft.

2. Flavor Boost – Add herbs like rosemary, oregano, or thyme to the dough.

3. Crispier Crust – Brush top with olive oil or melted butter before baking.

4. Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2 days, or freeze slices for up to a month.

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Variations

• Cheesy Bread: Add ½ cup shredded cheddar or parmesan to the dough.

• Garlic Herb Bread: Mix 1 teaspoon garlic powder + dried herbs into the flour.

• Sweet Version: Add 2 tablespoons sugar + 1 teaspoon cinnamon for a quick sweet loaf.

• Whole Wheat: Replace 1 cup all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.