Description
Crusty Italian Bread is the ultimate homemade delight that brings the warmth of Italy into your kitchen. With a golden, crackly crust and a soft, pillowy interior, each bite is a comforting experience reminiscent of family gatherings. This simple recipe is perfect for sandwiches or as a side for soups and salads, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Bake this bread to fill your home with irresistible aromas that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Activate the yeast by combining warm water and yeast in a small bowl; let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk flour and salt together. Create a well in the center and add activated yeast and olive oil. Stir until you form a shaggy dough.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough, shape it into a round loaf, place on parchment paper, cover again with cloth, and let rise for another 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife before baking 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 (50g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg