20-Minute Rustic Homemade Bread Recipe

Introduction

This quick and easy bread recipe is perfect for busy days when you want fresh homemade bread without the wait. Made with simple ingredients and no yeast, it comes together fast and bakes into a golden, crusty loaf. Enjoy it warm with your favorite spreads or use it in sandwiches for any meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to combine evenly.
3. Step 3: Add the warm water and oil to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a soft dough forms.
4. Step 4: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 1 to 2 minutes until it comes together smoothly.
5. Step 5: Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf to your preference.
6. Step 6: Place the shaped dough on your prepared baking sheet and gently smooth the top.
7. Step 7: Using a sharp knife, make a few shallow slashes across the top to help it bake evenly and create an artisan look.
8. Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Step 9: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing to allow the crumb to set.

Tips & Variations

• Make sure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise and texture.
• For garlic & herb bread, add 1 tsp dried Italian herbs and 1/2 tsp garlic powder to the dry mix, and brush olive oil on top before baking.
• Add 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or parmesan into the dough for cheesy bread.
• Swap 1 cup of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf; add a little more water if needed.
• Mix in crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Storage

Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it longer, freeze the loaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 1 month. Reheat by warming in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or toasting sliced pieces.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use this recipe to make rolls instead of a loaf?

Yes, simply divide the dough into smaller portions, shape into rolls, and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Why isn’t my bread rising much?

This recipe uses baking powder instead of yeast, so it won’t rise like traditional yeast bread. Make sure your baking powder is fresh for the best lift and texture.

20-Minute Rustic Homemade Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 133 reviews

This quick and easy homemade bread recipe is perfect for busy days when you want fresh, crusty bread without the wait for yeast to rise. Using simple pantry staples and a few straightforward steps, you can bake a rustic, golden loaf in about 20 minutes that’s versatile enough to enjoy plain, with butter and jam, or as a base for sandwiches. Ideal for beginners, this no-yeast bread is light, soft inside with a crisp crust, and customizable with herbs, cheese, or spices.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 8 servings) 1x
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt thoroughly to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the warm water and vegetable or olive oil. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon or spatula until a soft dough forms. The dough may look a bit shaggy but will come together nicely with light kneading.
4. Knead Lightly: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently for 1 to 2 minutes, just enough to smooth the dough and bring it together. You don’t need the elasticity typical of yeast doughs.
5. Shape the Dough: Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf according to your preference. No loaf pan is required; this bread bakes directly on the baking sheet, lending it a rustic crust.
6. Place on Baking Sheet: Carefully transfer the shaped dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Lightly pat the surface to smooth the top but don’t worry about perfection.
7. Slash the Top: Using a sharp knife, make a few shallow slashes across the top of the dough. This helps the bread bake evenly and gives it an attractive artisan appearance.
8. Bake It Up: Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Let It Cool Slightly: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period helps the crumb set and makes slicing easier without crumbling.

Notes

• Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise and texture.
• You can substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf; add a splash more water if needed.
• For extra flavor, try mixing in garlic powder, herbs, or cheese before baking.
• Letting the bread cool slightly before cutting prevents it from becoming gummy.
• This bread is best enjoyed within a day or two but can be toasted or repurposed as croutons if leftover.

Keywords: quick bread, easy bread recipe, no yeast bread, homemade bread, simple bread, rustic bread, baking bread