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

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to this bread lies in its simple yet indulgent ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted, plus extra for brushing)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or Parmesan)
• 1 tablespoon dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano)
• 1/4 cup seeds (like sesame, poppy, or sunflower seeds)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to whip up this quick, crusty loaf? Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) . Place a cast-iron skillet or baking sheet in the oven to heat up while you prepare the dough.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk and melted butter. Stir until just combined—the dough will be sticky and shaggy.
2. If adding optional mix-ins like cheese, herbs, or seeds, fold them in gently at this stage.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

1. Lightly flour your hands and work surface. Turn the dough onto the floured surface and shape it into a round loaf. Don’t overwork the dough—it’s okay if it’s a bit rough around the edges.
2. Transfer the shaped dough to a piece of parchment paper for easy handling. Use a sharp knife or razor blade to score the top of the loaf with an “X” or crosshatch pattern to allow for even expansion during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

1. Carefully transfer the dough (with the parchment paper) to the preheated skillet or baking sheet.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes , or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 6: Brush and Serve

1. As soon as the bread comes out of the oven, brush the top with melted butter for a soft, golden crust.
2. Let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy it warm with butter, jam, or your favorite toppings!