Description
This Crusty Italian Bread recipe yields a traditional, homemade loaf with a crispy golden crust and a soft, chewy interior. Perfect for sandwiches, dipping, or enjoying fresh with olive oil, this artisan bread is easy to make with simple ingredients and classic baking techniques.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for brushing)
For Baking
- Cornmeal or flour for dusting
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Dough: Stir in the salt and gradually add the flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms and the ingredients are combined.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, which develops the gluten for structure.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air, then shape it into a round or oval loaf according to your preference.
- Second Rise: Place the shaped loaf on a baking sheet dusted with cornmeal or flour, cover, and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes.
- Prepare Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F. Place a pan of water on the bottom rack to create steam, which helps develop a crispy crust.
- Score and Bake: Using a sharp knife, slash the top of the loaf several times to allow expansion. Optionally, brush with olive oil for a glossy crust. Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to set the crumb.
Notes
- For an extra crunchy crust, spray water on the oven walls immediately after placing the bread inside to increase steam.
- This bread is best enjoyed the day it is baked but can be refreshed by reheating briefly in the oven after storage.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
