20-Minute Quick Bread

by

Fast, Easy, and No Yeast Required!

Introduction

This 20-Minute Quick Bread is the perfect solution when you need fresh bread fast. Unlike traditional yeast breads that require hours of rising, this recipe uses baking powder for instant lift, delivering a soft, slightly dense loaf in just 20 minutes—from mixing to baking.

Ideal for breakfast, soups, or last-minute meals, this bread is versatile and foolproof. The dough comes together in one bowl, and the result is a golden, slightly sweet loaf with a tender crumb. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker in a hurry, this recipe guarantees fresh bread without the wait.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • ¾ cup (180ml) milk (any kind)
  • ¼ cup (60ml) olive oil or melted butter

(Optional: 1 tsp herbs or garlic powder for savory bread)

(Makes 1 small loaf)

Instructions

1. Prep & Preheat

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

  1. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.

3. Add Wet Ingredients

  1. Pour in milk and oil/butter. Stir just until combined (don’t overmix).

4. Bake

  1. Transfer dough to the pan and smooth the top.
  2. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

5. Cool & Serve

  • Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then slice.
  • Best served warm with butter, jam, or soup.

Why This Recipe Works

Baking Powder vs. Yeast

✔ Instant rise—no waiting for dough to proof.
✔ Denser texture (like Irish soda bread) but still soft.

Customizable

  • Sweet: Add raisins, cinnamon, or honey.
  • Savory: Mix in cheese, herbs, or sun-dried tomatoes.

Tips for Success

✔ Don’t overmix—this keeps the bread tender.
✔ For extra height, use a smaller pan (8×4-inch).
✔ Storage: Best eaten fresh; toast leftovers for 2–3 days.

Serving Suggestions

  • With soup or stew for dunking.
  • As French toast if slightly stale.
  • Topped with avocado and eggs for breakfast.

Conclusion

This 20-Minute Quick Bread is a game-changer for busy cooks. While it’s not as airy as yeast bread, its speed and simplicity make it a pantry staple.

Perfect for emergencies or when cravings strike!

Variation: Swap ½ cup flour for cornmeal for a rustic texture.

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