21 bread recipes that beat the ones from your ’90s breadmaker

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Step away from the dusty breadmaker and get ready to fall in love with homemade bread all over again. These 21 recipes are way better than anything that clunky ‘90s gadget ever cranked out. From soft dinner rolls to crusty artisan loaves, each one is worth preheating the oven for.

Sourdough Dinner Rolls on a cooling rack.
Sourdough Discard Dinner Rolls. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Croissants

A plate of golden-brown croissants is set on a patterned dish. Nearby are bowls containing butter, flour, and red jam, with a beige cloth napkin under the plate.
Croissants. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

These homemade croissants from the church cookbook are totally worth the effort—they blow anything a ’90s breadmaker could do out of the water. Flaky, buttery, and golden brown with that perfect crispy outside and soft, melt-in-your-mouth center. They’re amazing fresh out of the oven with butter, a little honey, or just on their own. Trust me, once you try one, you’ll want to make them again and again.
Get the Recipe: Croissants

Cottage Cheese Bread

Loaf of cottage cheese bread with two slices resting on wooden board.
Cottage Cheese Bread. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Craving a protein-packed bread that actually tastes amazing? You’ve gotta try this cottage cheese bread. It’s super moist, super satisfying, and way better than your average loaf. One bite and you’ll be hooked. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or just because you feel like it. Trust me, this one’s a keeper.
Get the Recipe: Cottage Cheese Bread

Peanut Butter Bread

Loaf of peanut butter bread with one cut slice on white cutting board.
Peanut Butter Bread. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Peanut Butter Bread is an old-school recipe from the ’40s that’s super easy to make. Just heat up a slice, slather on some butter or jam, and dig in. It’s the kind of cozy snack that goes great with a cup of coffee or tea. One bite, and it’ll take you right back to grandma’s kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Bread

Hot Cross Buns

Hot cross buns on silver tray.
Hot Cross Buns. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

These hot cross buns are straight from a good old church cookbook, and yep—Grandma totally nailed it. They’re soft, fluffy, and packed with currants, cinnamon, and allspice. So good you’ll be grabbing another before you’re even done with the first. Perfect for brunch, holidays, or just hanging out with family. Honestly, they’re hard to beat!
Get the Recipe: Hot Cross Buns

Parker House Rolls

A single bread roll, the star of many cherished bread recipes, rests on a vibrant red plate.
Parker House Rolls. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

These buttery Parker House Rolls are way better than anything you’d get from a bread machine. Scalded milk makes ’em super fluffy, they get a little fold, a butter brush, and bake up golden and perfect. Honestly, they’re so good you might wanna make a double batch. Great for holidays, Sunday dinners, or just because you can.
Get the Recipe: Parker House Rolls

Old-Fashioned Homemade Bread

A sliced loaf of white bread rests on a wooden surface, revealing its light, fluffy interior and golden crust.
Old-Fashioned Homemade Bread. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

This classic bread recipe is super easy with just a few ingredients, and it turns out a warm, golden loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a total crowd-pleaser and goes with pretty much everything. Honestly, you won’t believe how something so simple can taste this good! Whether it’s dinner or a quick snack, this bread is always a win. Plus, it fills your kitchen with the best smell!
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Homemade Bread

Stovetop Scones

Round scones with jam on white plate.
Stovetop Scones. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

No oven? No biggie! These stovetop scones are super easy and quick to whip up—perfect for a laid-back weekend morning. They’re awesome for breakfast or just a snack, and your kitchen will smell so good. You’ll probably end up making a double batch because they disappear before you know it! Plus, they’re just too good to resist.
Get the Recipe: Stovetop Scones

Old-Fashioned Banana Bread

Sliced loaf of banana bread on wooden board.
Old-Fashioned Banana Bread. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

This banana bread is the real deal—moist, full of ripe bananas, and loaded with crunchy nuts, just like Grandma used to make. It’s perfect for whenever you’re in the mood for something sweet. Toss it in the oven, and trust me, it won’t last long. Might as well make two loaves while you’re at it!
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Banana Bread

Sourdough Discard Dinner Rolls

Sourdough Dinner Rolls on a cooling rack.
Sourdough Discard Dinner Rolls. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Homemade rolls always beat store-bought, and these Sourdough Discard Dinner Rolls are a total game changer! Soft, fluffy, and loaded with that perfect sourdough tang, they’re way better than anything you’d get from a breadmaker. They’re super easy to whip up, and once you try them, you’ll be hooked! Perfect for any meal—trust me, you’ll want to make these every time.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Discard Dinner Rolls

Irish Soda Bread

Round loaf of Irish soda bread on wooden board.
Irish Soda Bread. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Give Irish Soda Bread a shot—it’s super easy, packed with raisins and caraway seeds, and perfect with a hot cup of tea. No need for anything fancy—just some cozy vibes and a kitchen that smells awesome. Slice it, spread on some butter, and enjoy a little taste of Ireland. You’ll definitely want to make this one again!
Get the Recipe: Irish Soda Bread

Applesauce Bread

A loaf of applesauce bread with three slices cut, two apples, a bowl of applesauce, and a red and white checkered cloth on a wooden cutting board.
Applesauce Bread. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

This applesauce bread is from an old church cookbook, and it’s super easy to whip up. It’s loaded with cozy cinnamon and nutmeg, plus a nice crunch from chopped nuts. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or just whenever you want something tasty. It’s one of those recipes you’ll keep coming back to!
Get the Recipe: Applesauce Bread

Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Loaf of cinnamon raisin bread with two slices falling forward on wooden board.
Cinnamon Raisin Bread. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

This Cinnamon Raisin Bread is super easy to whip up and hits the spot any time of year. It’s got sweet cinnamon swirls, a crunchy top, and makes an awesome breakfast or snack. Your kitchen’s gonna smell amazing while it bakes. Honestly, the hardest part is waiting for it to cool before slicing into it!
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Raisin Bread

English Muffin Bread

A loaf of bread is sitting on a cutting board.
English Muffin Bread. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This homemade English muffin bread is a total win for beginner bakers! It’s super easy—just 15 minutes of prep, no kneading, and only one rise. Way better than anything you’d get from a 90s breadmaker. It’s perfect for brunch or just enjoying with butter and jam anytime you want something fresh and tasty.
Get the Recipe: English Muffin Bread

Rosemary Sourdough Bread

Rosemary sourdough bread on cutting board.
Rosemary Sourdough Bread. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This Rosemary Sourdough Bread is about to step up your baking game! The tangy sourdough and fresh rosemary give it that perfect homemade touch. It’s amazing on its own or as the base for a killer sandwich—definitely one you’ll want to make again and again.
Get the Recipe: Rosemary Sourdough Bread

Rustic Jalapeno Cheddar Bread

A loaf of bread with jalapenos and jalapeno peppers.
Rustic Jalapeno Cheddar Bread. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

This Rustic Jalapeno Cheddar Bread is the perfect combo of spicy and cheesy, making any meal more exciting. With sharp cheddar and a kick of jalapeno, it’s perfect for anyone who likes a little heat. It takes about 3.5 hours to make, including the rise and bake time, but the hearty texture and delicious flavor are totally worth it.
Get the Recipe: Rustic Jalapeno Cheddar Bread

Homemade Brazilian Cheese Bread

Brazilian cheese bread bites cooling on a kitchen counter.
Homemade Brazilian Cheese Bread. Photo credit: Sage Alpha Gal.

These gluten-free, cheesy little bites are crispy on the outside and super cheesy on the inside. They’re perfect for a quick snack, appetizer, or even a side dish, bringing a taste of Brazil right to your kitchen. You’ll love how easy they are to whip up!
Get the Recipe: Homemade Brazilian Cheese Bread

3 Ingredient Buttermilk Biscuits

A stack of three golden-brown, flaky biscuits on a white surface, with a blurry background.
3 Ingredient Buttermilk Biscuits. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

These 3-Ingredient Buttermilk Biscuits are all the Southern comfort you could want, and way better than anything from a breadmaker! With just self-rising flour, buttermilk, and butter, they turn out light, fluffy, and golden every time. Whether you’re just starting out or a pro, this recipe’s got your back. Great for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you’re craving something warm and buttery!
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Buttermilk Biscuits

Easy Tomato Focaccia

Freshly baked focaccia with cherry tomatoes and herbs in a rectangular baking dish.
Easy Tomato Focaccia. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

I’m all about focaccia and pizza, so this Easy Tomato Focaccia Bread recipe is basically my dream come true. It’s like a fluffier, more delicious version of the cafeteria pizza I used to love. Super nostalgic, but way better, and perfect for any pizza night or snack attack. You’ve gotta try it!
Get the Recipe: Easy Tomato Focaccia

No Knead Italian Artisan Bread

Italian artisan bread sliced on cutting board.
No Knead Italian Artisan Bread. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Making Italian artisan bread has never been easier—no kneading needed! You’ll get that amazing rustic flavor without all the work, and it’s perfect for any meal or snack. It’s like having fresh bakery bread right at home, anytime you want.
Get the Recipe: No Knead Italian Artisan Bread

Instant Pot Garlic Knots

Pan of garlic knots with marinara sauce.
Instant Pot Garlic Knots. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Instant Pot Garlic Knots are super easy and taste amazing! Just let them proof in the IP, pop them in the oven, and you’ve got a perfect side, appetizer, or snack to go with your Italian dishes. They’re great for sharing or just snacking on while you wait for dinner!
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Garlic Knots

French Baguettes

Image shows a closeup of two Baguettes in their pan from an overhead view.
French Baguettes. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Step into a Parisian café with fresh French baguettes that are perfect for sandwiches or just enjoying on their own. With a crispy crust and soft interior, these baguettes are way better than anything you’d get from a bread machine. Trust me, once you try them, you won’t look back!
Get the Recipe: French Baguettes

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