There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked Crusty Italian Bread wafting through your kitchen. That irresistible scent lures family and friends, promising a warmth that only homemade bread can deliver. delicious Bolognese sauce Each bite offers a satisfying crunch on the outside and a soft, tender interior that seems to melt in your mouth.

Picture this: it’s a Sunday afternoon, and you’re gathering with loved ones around the table. The laughter rings out as you slice into that golden-brown loaf. Memories are made over butter-slathered bread dipped into rich olive oil or savored alongside hearty pasta dishes. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an occasion to connect and celebrate life’s simple pleasures. For more inspiration, check out this refreshing watermelon salad recipe.

I still remember the first time I baked this bread; my family couldn’t stop raving about how it tasted just like what we’d had in Italy.

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Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: Opt for unbleached flour for better texture and flavor development.

• Active Dry Yeast: Always check the expiration date for maximum rise potential.

• Warm Water: Use water around 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast effectively.

• Salt: Sea salt enhances the flavor; avoid table salt if possible.

• Olive Oil: A splash adds richness; use extra virgin for the best taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm water with active dry yeast and let it sit until foamy, about 5 minutes. taco bowl recipe This step ensures your bread rises beautifully.

Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a well in the center, then pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until combined into a shaggy dough.

Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. You’ll know it’s ready when it springs back when poked.

First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, approximately 1-2 hours. Enjoy watching your dough transform!

Shape and Second Rise: Punch down the risen dough gently to remove air bubbles. Shape it into a round loaf, place it on parchment paper, cover again, and allow it to rise for another hour.

Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a baking stone or tray inside if available. Score the top of the loaf with sharp scissors or a knife before placing it on hot stone/tray. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Your kitchen will soon be filled with an aroma so enticing that you might just find yourself standing by the oven like an eager puppy waiting for treats!

Enjoy this Crusty Italian Bread with your favorite dips or alongside pasta dishes—it’s perfect every time! creamy mashed potatoes.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the ingredients for the dough, letting it rise, then shaping and baking until golden brown. This sequence ensures a crusty finish and soft inside.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to personalize your crusty Italian bread with herbs like rosemary or garlic for extra flavor. Tuscan stuffed mushrooms Cheese can add a delightful twist too!

Storing & Reheating

Store crusty Italian bread in a paper bag to keep it crisp. For reheating, wrap in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. For more inspiration, check out this lemon cheesecake squares recipe.

I remember the first time I baked crusty Italian bread; my friends couldn’t resist devouring it straight from the oven. Their compliments made me feel like a culinary superstar!

FAQ

How long does it take to make crusty Italian bread?

The entire process takes about 4 hours from start to finish.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes, whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor but may alter texture slightly.

What should I serve with crusty Italian bread?

Pair it with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or your favorite cheese for delightful dipping!

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Crusty Italian Bread

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• Author: Hellen
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Crusty Italian Bread brings the warm, inviting aroma of homemade baking right into your home. With its perfectly crisp crust and soft, airy interior, this bread is not just a side dish; it’s an experience. Ideal for sharing with loved ones or enjoying with your favorite dips and meals, this recipe is easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough to wow any guest.

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Ingredients

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• 4 cups all-purpose flour (unbleached)
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 1 ½ tsp sea salt
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

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Instructions

1. 1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, stir warm water with active dry yeast and let sit until foamy (about 5 minutes).
2. 2. Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center; pour in yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until shaggy.
3. 3. Knead: On a floured surface, knead dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. 4. First rise: Place in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm area until doubled (1-2 hours).
5. 5. Shape: Gently punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place on parchment paper to rise again for an hour.
6. 6. Bake: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Score the top of the loaf and bake on hot stone/tray for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (45g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Fat: 1g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg