This easy 40-Minute Homemade Bread is a quick make perfect for a last-minute addition to any meal. Nothing beats the aroma of fresh bread straight from the oven.
This fast bread recipe is perfect for those moments when you crave warm, homemade bread but don’t have hours to spare. With a short rise time and simple ingredients, you can have a golden brown loaf or even minute dinner rolls on the table fast.
Why This Homemade Bread Recipe is a Must-Try
If you’re looking for a quick and foolproof way to enjoy fresh bread, this recipe is perfect. It takes just 40 minutes from start to finish. It requires no bread maker, and uses pantry staples like bread flour, olive oil, and active dry yeast.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Shape it into a loaf, make pizza dough, or even turn it into pita bread. The best part is that it’s a crowd-pleaser. A warm and crusty bread that everyone loves.
Easy 40-Minute Homemade Bread Recipe: Quick Rise
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Kitchen Essentials
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 Teaspoons Active Dry Yeast or instant yeast
- 1 Cup Warm Water about 110°F
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 Teaspoon Salt
- 2 1/2 – 3 Cups Bread Flour or a mix of whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour
- 1 Teaspoon Sugar optional, helps with yeast activation
- 1 Large Egg for egg wash, optional
- 1 Tablespoon Melted Butter for brushing, optional
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Add a teaspoon of sugar and stir gently. Let sit for 5 minutes until the yeast mixture is foamy.2 1/4 Teaspoons Active Dry Yeast, 1 Cup Warm Water, 1 Teaspoon Sugar
- Add the olive oil, salt, and 2 1/2 cups of bread flour to the bowl. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and mix on low speed.2 Tablespoons Olive Oil, 1 Teaspoon Salt, 2 1/2 – 3 Cups Bread Flour
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until you get a smooth ball. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour, but avoid using too much flour, which can make the bread dense.
- First Rise (Optional for Extra Soft Bread). If you have a bit of time, cover the dough with a tea towel and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Shape and Second Rise. Form the dough into a loaf or divide it into minute rolls. Place on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet or a cookie sheet. Cover with plastic wrap or a tea towel and let the dough rise for 10-15 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (or use a toaster oven for smaller batches). If making a loaf, brush with an egg wash for a glossy finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown.1 Large Egg
- Transfer to a wire rack and let cool before slicing.
- This bread is ready to enjoy with garlic butter, fresh herbs, or even as garlic bread.1 Tablespoon Melted Butter
Your Own Private Notes
Nutrition
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
- Flour Variations – Swap bread flour for all-purpose flour or a mix of whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
- Sweet Touch – Add a tablespoon of honey or sugar for a lightly sweet flavor.
- Herbs & Spices – Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil for an aromatic twist.
- Dairy-Free Option – Replace butter with olive oil and skip the egg wash.
- Enriched Dough – Add an egg and 2 tablespoons of milk for a softer, richer bread.
- Gluten-Free Alternative – Use a gluten-free flour blend and add 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum for better texture.
- Garlic Bread Upgrade – Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder before baking.
How to Know When Your Bread is Done
Wondering if your fast bread recipe is fully baked? Here are a few simple ways to check:
- Golden Brown Crust – The bread should have a deep golden brown color. If it looks too pale, it may need a few more minutes.
- Hollow Sound Test – Tap the bottom of the loaf with your knuckles; if it sounds hollow, it’s done.
- Internal Temperature – Use an instant-read thermometer and check the center of the loaf. It should read 190-200°F for standard bread and 205-210°F for artisan-style loaves.
- Firm Sides – The sides of the bread should feel firm, not doughy or soft.
- Pull-Apart Test for Rolls – If making minute dinner rolls, gently pull one apart. If the inside is fluffy and fully cooked, they’re ready.
If using instant yeast, skip the activation step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
For a rustic artisan bread, bake on a pizza stone or pizza peel.
How to Store Bread
To keep your fresh bread soft and delicious for as long as possible, follow these storage tips:
- Room Temperature Storage: Place your cooled bread in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap. Keep it in a dry place away from direct sunlight for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: While bread can be stored in the fridge, it may dry out faster. If refrigerating, wrap it well and toast before serving to restore freshness.
- Freezing for Longer Storage: To store for an extended period, wrap the loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Place in a freezer-safe airtight container or zip-top bag. Frozen bread lasts up to 3 months.
- Reheating Frozen Bread: To refresh frozen bread, thaw at room temperature, then warm it in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes.
Can I use this dough for other recipes?
Yes! This dough works great for pizza dough, soda bread, and even easy French bread.
What if I want to make the dough the next day?
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Bring it to room temperature before baking.
This great recipe is inspired by Jeff Hertzberg and Zoe Francois, known for their easy dough recipes. Whether you’re baking for the first time or looking for a perfect recipe for quick bread, this one is sure to impress.
great treat for a weeknight meal.
My family loved this!