Classic Beer Bread Recipe: Zero Fuss. All Flavor 🍞🍺

This Classic Beer Bread is the ultimate quick bread — no yeast, no kneading, no rising.
Just flour, sugar, and beer (plus butter for that golden, crunchy crust), baked into a warm, hearty loaf that pairs with literally everything.

Whether you’re making it to go with soup, chili, or just to slather in butter, this recipe is fast, foolproof, and endlessly customizable.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp sugar (or honey, for a hint of sweetness)
  • 12 oz beer (lager, ale, or wheat beer — your call)
  • ¼ cup melted butter (plus more for brushing)

Beer Tip: A basic lager gives you classic flavor. Use a pale ale for more body, or a wheat beer for a softer, sweeter profile. Avoid IPAs (too bitter) or stouts (too heavy) unless you want to experiment.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease a 9×5″ loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix It Up

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.

Pour in the beer and stir until just combined — the dough will be sticky and shaggy.

Step 3: Pour & Butter

Spoon the dough into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

Pour melted butter over the batter (this creates that signature buttery, crunchy crust).

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Let cool 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Serving Ideas

  • Best With:
    • Soups, stews, chili
    • BBQ ribs, pulled pork, or roast chicken
    • Butter and jam for a sweet twist
  • Variations:
    • Add 1 cup shredded cheddar and 1 diced jalapeño
    • Swap sugar for 2 tbsp honey and a pinch of cinnamon for breakfast toast
    • Mix in herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory loaf

Final Thoughts

Classic Beer Bread is the go-to loaf when you want something fast, hearty, and homemade.

With just a few pantry staples and your favorite beer, you get a dense, moist, crusty bread that’s good straight from the pan or toasted with butter the next morning.

Cheers to baking that doesn’t overthink it! 🍞🍺🔥

🍺 Explore Our Top Cooking with Beer Recipe Collections

From crispy beer-battered classics to bold mains, cheesy dips, breads, and even desserts — these roundups bring together the best of beer-infused cooking. Whether you’re hosting a game day, planning a backyard BBQ, or just experimenting in the kitchen, there’s a beer recipe collection for every craving.

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