Quick & Easy No-Yeast Bread – Ready in 20 Minutes!

There’s nothing better than the aroma of fresh, homemade bread straight from the oven. But what if you don’t have yeast or time for long proofing? This quick and easy no-yeast bread is the answer! It’s golden, fluffy, and incredibly simple to make, using just a handful of pantry staples. With no kneading or rising required, you can have warm, fresh bread on the table in just 20 minutes.

This bread has a beautiful crisp crust and a soft, tender interior, making it perfect for serving with soups, stews, or as a quick snack with butter and jam. It’s also a fantastic base for customization—add cheese, herbs, or seeds for a unique flavor twist. Whether you’re new to baking or just need a quick homemade bread fix, this recipe is foolproof and delicious.

Since this bread relies on baking powder and baking soda instead of yeast, it rises quickly in the oven, giving you that perfect loaf without waiting hours for proofing. The result is a rustic-style bread with a texture similar to soda bread—light, airy, and slightly dense, but oh-so satisfying.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 1 small loaf (4-6 slices)
Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice/vinegar)
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted, plus extra for brushing)

Optional Add-Ins

  • ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, parmesan, etc.)
  • 1 tbsp dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano)
  • ¼ cup seeds (sesame, poppy, sunflower)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a cast-iron skillet or baking sheet inside to heat up.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda until evenly combined.
  3. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the buttermilk and melted butter, stirring until the mixture forms a sticky dough. If adding cheese, herbs, or seeds, fold them in now.
  4. Shape the Dough: Lightly flour your hands and a work surface. Shape the dough into a rough round loaf and place it on a piece of parchment paper. Score the top with a sharp knife to help it rise evenly.
  5. Bake the Bread: Carefully transfer the dough (with parchment paper) to the hot skillet or baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  6. Final Touch: Brush the warm bread with melted butter for extra flavor and a soft crust. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Variations

  • Garlic & Herb Bread: Add 1 tsp garlic powder and a mix of dried Italian herbs.
  • Cheesy Bread: Fold in shredded cheddar, parmesan, or gouda for a savory twist.
  • Sweet Version: Increase sugar to 2 tbsp and add cinnamon for a slightly sweet loaf.
  • Whole Wheat: Swap half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.

Tips

  • Don’t overmix the dough—it should be slightly sticky but not too dry.
  • For a crispier crust, place a small oven-safe dish with water on the bottom rack while baking.
  • Use parchment paper to easily transfer the dough without sticking.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.

This no-yeast bread is the perfect solution for when you need a quick, delicious loaf without the wait. Serve it warm with butter, pair it with soup, or use it as a base for sandwiches. However you enjoy it, this simple homemade bread will become a staple in your kitchen!