And it’s based on a classic quick bread method — the kind that’s been used for generations when resources were tight.
All-purpose flour (2 cups)
$0.20
Structure and bulk
Lukewarm water (1¼ cups)
$0.00
Hydration
Baking powder (1 tbsp)
$0.03
Leavening (makes it rise)
Kosher salt (1 tsp)
$0.01
Flavor
Fat (1 tbsp oil, butter, or shortening)
$0.02
Tenderness and moisture
✅ Total cost per loaf: Less than $0.30
Compare that to $4+ for a store-bought loaf — and you’ll never look at your pantry the same way again.
🥣 The Recipe: Homemade Bread for Pennies
Ingredients (Makes 1 loaf)
All-purpose flour
2 cups (240g)
Baking powder
1 tablespoon
Kosher salt
1 teaspoon
Oil, melted butter, or shortening
1 tablespoon
Lukewarm water
1¼ cups (300ml)
✅ Optional: Add 1 tbsp honey or sugar for a slightly sweet loaf, or mix in herbs or garlic for flavor.
🍞 Step-by-Step: How to Make It
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl:
Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt
Make a well in the center
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Pour in the fat and lukewarm water
Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms
Mix until no dry flour remains — it will be sticky
No kneading.
No rising.
Just mix and go.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan (or shape into a round loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet)
Scrape the dough into the pan
Smooth the top with wet fingers
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Step 4: Cool and Enjoy
Let it cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Yes, the smell will torture you.
But slicing too soon releases steam — and you want that soft, pillowy crumb.
Then…
Butter it.
Dip it in soup.
Make toast.
Share it.
And savor the fact that you made it for less than a quarter.
🧑🍳 Tips for Success
Use lukewarm water
Activates baking powder without killing it
Don’t overmix
Prevents tough bread
Grease the pan well
Prevents sticking
Store in a paper bag
Keeps crust crisp (plastic makes it soggy)
Freeze extras
Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months
Also, try using whole wheat flour (replace up to half) for a heartier texture.
🧀 Creative Ways to Use This Bread
Garlic Bread
Brush with garlic butter and toast
French Toast
Soak slices in egg and milk, pan-fry
Croutons
Cube, toss with oil and herbs, bake until crisp
Sandwich Loaf
Perfect for tuna, egg salad, or PB&J
Breakfast Toast
Top with avocado, jam, or a fried egg
Even better — tear it into pieces and dunk it into chili, stew, or pasta sauce.
🍽️ Final Thoughts: Sometimes the Best Bread Isn’t Expensive — It’s Just Made
We’ve been sold the idea that good bread has to be complex.
That it needs time.
That it costs money.
But the truth is:
The best bread isn’t about perfection.
It’s about warmth.
It’s about feeding people.
It’s about making something from almost nothing.
So next time you’re staring into an empty fridge, wondering what to serve with dinner…
Don’t reach for the store-bought loaf.
Reach for the flour.
Reach for the baking powder.
Reach for the water.
Because sometimes, the difference between hunger and comfort…
Isn’t in the recipe.
It’s in the bowl.
And once you make this loaf?
You’ll wonder why you ever paid $5 for bread.
Because real food shouldn’t cost a fortune.
It should just… be.