Description
A simple and delicious recipe for crusty homemade Italian bread that brings joy to your kitchen and gathers your family around.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 105-115°F)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for the bowl
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let this stand for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
- Combine the ingredients: Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Use a wooden spoon to mix everything until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Lightly oil a clean bowl. Place the dough in it, cover, and let rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape the loaf: Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf. Or divide it into two smaller loaves if desired.
- Second rise: Place the shaped loaves on a baking sheet. Cover and let rise again for 30 to 45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) about 20 minutes before the second rise finishes.
- Prepare for baking: Lightly brush the top of the loaf with water or egg wash. Optionally, score the top with a sharp knife.
- Bake the bread: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.
- Cool completely: Once baked, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
For extra texture, consider applying an egg wash before baking. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze slices for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: homemade bread, Italian bread, baking recipe, crusty bread, family recipes