This Italian bread recipe delivers a perfectly soft and chewy loaf with a crispy golden crust, just like the bread you’d find in a traditional Italian bakery. It’s perfect for making sandwiches, serving alongside pasta, or simply dipping in olive oil and balsamic vinegar. With a few simple ingredients, this Italian bread recipe is easy to make at home and brings the taste of Italy to your table.
Ingredients:
Ingredients for the Italian bread recipe:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Cornmeal for dusting
Execution
Step-by-Step Method for the Italian bread recipe:
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough begins to form, then transfer to a lightly floured surface.
- Knead the dough: Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour as needed.
- Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the loaf: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a loaf or oval shape and place it on a baking sheet dusted with cornmeal.
- Second rise: Cover the dough with a towel again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake the bread: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Make a few diagonal slashes on the top of the loaf with a sharp knife. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and serve: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy with your favorite toppings or as a side to a meal!
Tips:
For the best Italian bread recipe:
- Use fresh yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. If your yeast doesn’t foam when mixed with water, it may be expired, and your bread won’t rise properly.
- Don’t rush the rise: Give the dough enough time to rise fully to ensure a light and airy texture inside the loaf.
- Steam for a crispier crust: To achieve an extra-crispy crust, place a pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven while baking the bread to create steam.
- Store leftovers properly: Store any leftover bread in a paper bag or loosely wrapped in a cloth to keep the crust crisp.
FAQs:
- Can I freeze this bread? Yes, you can freeze the bread after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
- How do I keep the crust crispy? Store the bread in a paper bag or loosely covered with a cloth to keep the crust from getting too soft. Reheat in the oven to restore the crispiness.
- Can I add herbs to the dough? Yes! You can add dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for added flavor.
- What can I serve with this bread? This Italian bread pairs perfectly with pasta dishes, soups, or simply served with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
