Easy 20-Minute Homemade Bread Dough
Easy 20-Minute Homemade Bread Dough is perfect for anyone wanting fresh bread without the long wait. This quick and simple recipe allows you to whip up dough in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected gatherings. With its soft texture and delightful flavor, this dough can be used for various baked goods, including pizza crust, rolls, or a classic loaf. Enjoy homemade bread that impresses family and friends, all while saving time in the kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: You can create delicious bread dough in just 20 minutes.
- Versatile Uses: Perfect for shaping into loaves, rolls, or pizza crusts.
- Kid-Friendly: An easy recipe that kids can help with, making baking fun.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples, ensuring you won’t need special items.
- Flavorful Results: Enjoy a soft, tasty texture that enhances any meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the Easy 20-Minute Homemade Bread Dough recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make baking more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Clean kitchen towel
- Kneading surface
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients effectively.
- Whisk: Helps to aerate the yeast mixture for better rise.
- Kneading surface: Provides a clean area to knead the dough properly.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp instant yeast)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 1/2 cups bread flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
How to Make Easy 20-Minute Homemade Bread Dough
Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the yeast, sugar, olive oil, and warm water. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together the bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of flavors.
Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until combined. Knead the dough by hand for 5–7 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. If necessary, add more bread flour one tablespoon at a time to reduce stickiness.
Step 4: Rest the Dough
Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let your dough rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps improve texture.
Step 5: Shape Your Dough
After resting, shape your dough as desired—whether it’s into a loaf pan, rolls, or pizza crust. Bake according to your specific recipe instructions.
Enjoy your Easy 20-Minute Homemade Bread Dough! It’s quick, straightforward, and perfect for all occasions.
How to Serve Easy 20-Minute Homemade Bread Dough
This versatile dough can be shaped and baked into various delicious forms. Whether you’re making a classic loaf, rolls, or even pizza crust, here are some great serving suggestions to enjoy your homemade creation.
Classic Loaf
- Serve a warm slice of bread with butter or your favorite jam for breakfast.
Dinner Rolls
- Shape the dough into small balls and bake for fluffy dinner rolls perfect alongside soups or salads.
Pizza Crust
- Roll out the dough and top it with sauce, cheese, and toppings for a quick homemade pizza night.
Flatbreads
- Flatten the dough into rounds and cook on a skillet for fresh flatbreads that pair perfectly with dips.
Breadsticks
- Shape the dough into sticks, season with garlic and herbs, then bake for tasty breadsticks ideal for snacking.

How to Perfect Easy 20-Minute Homemade Bread Dough
Getting the best results from your easy 20-minute homemade bread dough is simple. Here are some tips to enhance your baking experience.
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Knead Well: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps develop gluten for a better texture.
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Use Warm Water: Ensure your water is around 110°F to activate the yeast properly for optimal rise.
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Don’t Skip Resting: Allow the dough to rest under a damp towel. This step is crucial for achieving a light and airy texture.
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Monitor Stickiness: If the dough feels too sticky while kneading, add more bread flour one tablespoon at a time until manageable.
Best Side Dishes for Easy 20-Minute Homemade Bread Dough
Pairing your homemade bread with the right side dishes can elevate any meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement your easy 20-minute homemade bread dough perfectly.
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Garlic Butter Shrimp: Juicy shrimp sautéed in garlic butter make a delightful partner to bread, perfect for dipping.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup is ideal for dipping slices of homemade bread.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing and croutons pairs wonderfully with fresh bread.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal while complimenting the flavors of your bread.
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Cheesy Spinach Dip: This creamy dip served warm is perfect for spreading on freshly baked rolls or flatbreads.
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Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and spices create a hearty meal when served alongside warm bread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making homemade bread can be simple, but small mistakes can lead to unsatisfactory results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
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Ingredient Measurement: Using incorrect measurements can ruin your dough. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
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Water Temperature: If the water is too hot, it can kill the yeast. Ensure the water temperature is around 110°F for optimal yeast activation.
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Skipping Kneading: Neglecting to knead the dough enough can lead to a dense bread. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic for best results.
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Not Letting Dough Rest: Failing to let the dough rest can hinder its rise. Allowing it to rest for at least 10 minutes helps develop gluten.
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Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect how your bread cooks. Preheat your oven fully before placing your bread inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Bread dough can be kept for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Easy 20-Minute Homemade Bread Dough
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag.
- Dough can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy 20-Minute Homemade Bread Dough
- Oven: Preheat and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet with a lid on low heat, turning occasionally for even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Easy 20-Minute Homemade Bread Dough quick?
The use of instant yeast allows for a faster rise compared to traditional yeast methods, making this recipe ready in just 20 minutes.
Can I customize my Easy 20-Minute Homemade Bread Dough?
Absolutely! You can add herbs, spices, or cheese to personalize your bread according to your taste preferences.
How long does Easy 20-Minute Homemade Bread Dough last?
When stored correctly, this homemade bread can last up to three days in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.
Is Easy 20-Minute Homemade Bread Dough suitable for beginners?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for beginners, providing simple steps that anyone can follow to create delicious homemade bread.
Final Thoughts
This Easy 20-Minute Homemade Bread Dough is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. You can shape it into loaves, rolls, or even pizza crusts. Customize it with your favorite herbs or toppings and enjoy fresh homemade bread that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Try this recipe today and discover how easy making homemade bread can be!

Easy 20-Minute Homemade Bread Dough
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Discover how to make Easy 20-Minute Homemade Bread Dough that’s quick and satisfying! Try this simple recipe today for warm, fresh bread!
Ingredients
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 1/2 cups bread flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the yeast, sugar, olive oil, and warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- In a separate bowl, mix the bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt.
- Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture and mix until combined. Knead by hand for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover with a damp towel and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Shape into your desired form—loaf pan, rolls, or pizza crust—and bake according to your specific recipe.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: varies based on shape and size
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (70g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg