Crusty Italian Bread Recipe
This crusty Italian bread recipe creates a golden, crackling crust with a soft, airy crumb inside. It’s perfect for sandwiches, dipping in olive oil, or serving alongside hearty meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a rough dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F. Place a baking stone or inverted baking sheet inside to heat.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a piece of parchment paper.
- Cover the shaped dough with the towel again and let it rise for 30 minutes.
- Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife. Carefully transfer the dough (with parchment) onto the hot stone or baking sheet.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour for a chewier texture.
- Brush with melted butter after baking for a softer crust.
- Add dried herbs like rosemary or oregano for extra flavor.
- Use a pan of water in the oven for a steam-enhanced, crustier loaf.
Find it online: https://www.recipebyelena.com/crusty-italian-bread-recipe/