Italian Bread Recipe
The ultimate comfort food, Italian Bread Recipe is easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With its golden crust and soft, fluffy interior, this bread elevates any meal. Perfect for sandwiches, soups, or as a side, you’ll want to make it tonight!
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Mixing Bowl
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 2 1/4 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup warm water 110°F
- 1 cup hot water 115-120°F
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 1/4 cups bread flour divided
- 1 large egg mixed with a little water for optional egg wash
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast and 1/2 teaspoon of sugar in 1/4 cup of warm water at 110°F. Let it stand for about 5 minutes until frothy. This step is crucial to ensure your yeast is alive and active, which is essential for a good rise.
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of hot water, 2 teaspoons of sugar, salt, and olive oil. Mixing these ingredients creates a flavorful base for your bread.
- Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the bread flour along with the activated yeast mixture. Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft, sticky dough forms. At this point, you’ll start to see the dough come together.
- Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour. This is when the magic happens, allowing the dough to double in size.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently shape it into a log or batard (oval) form. This shaping process helps to create tension in the dough, resulting in a better texture.
- Transfer the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure it’s spaced out to allow for expansion while baking.
- Cover the shaped dough with a clean towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise is important to develop the flavor and texture.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Optionally, brush the top of the dough with a light egg white and water wash for a glossy finish.
- Using a sharp knife, make several diagonal slashes across the top of the dough. This allows for proper expansion while baking and gives it that artisan look.
- Place the dough in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown. Keep an eye on it; you want that perfect golden crust!
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a rack before slicing. This step is crucial; allowing it to cool completely ensures the best texture before cutting.
- Enjoy your warm and delicious Italian Bread Recipe with your favorite meals or simply on its own!
Notes
- Tip 1: Store the cooled bread in a paper bag to keep the crust crispy.
- Tip 2: If not consumed within a few days, slice and freeze for future use.
- Tip 3: Try adding herbs or cheese to the dough for extra flavor.
- Tip 4: Serve with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
- Tip 5: Use it for making delicious garlic bread.