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Crusty Italian Bread

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A classic homemade Italian bread with a crispy golden crust and soft, airy interior—perfect for dipping, sandwiches, or just enjoying with butter! This easy-to-make bread is a must-try for any bread lover.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups all-purpose or bread flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  • Activate the Yeast:
    In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  • Mix the Dough:
    In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
    Add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
    Stir with a wooden spoon or use a stand mixer with a dough hook until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Knead the Dough:
    Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. (If using a mixer, knead for about 5 minutes on medium speed.)
    Shape into a ball and place in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a towel and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  • Shape the Bread:
    Punch down the dough and turn it onto a floured surface.
    Shape into a long loaf or divide into two smaller loaves.
    Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely with a towel, and let rise for 30 minutes.
  • Prepare for Baking:
    Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
    Use a sharp knife to make 3-4 diagonal slashes across the top of the dough.
    For a crispy crust, place a pan of hot water on the bottom rack of the oven to create steam.
  • Bake:
    Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crusty.
    The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  • Cool & Enjoy:
    Let cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
    Serve with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, butter, or alongside your favorite pasta dish!

Notes

  • To keep the bread fresh, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel once it’s cooled.
  • You can make the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight for a more flavorful loaf.
  • For an even crispier crust, you can spritz the dough with water just before placing it in the oven.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://easyfoodflash.com/crusty-italian-bread/