Bread in 20 Minutes – The Perfect Recipe for Those in a Hurry

Ingredients

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

Preparation

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

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
3. 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

1. Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf. If desired, sprinkle the top with seeds, herbs, or cheese for added flavor and texture.
2. 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

1. Carefully transfer the shaped dough onto the preheated baking sheet or skillet.
2. 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

1. Transfer the bread to a wire rack and let it cool slightly before slicing.
2. Slice and serve warm with butter, olive oil, or your favorite toppings. Enjoy the aroma and flavor of freshly baked bread!