There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked Crusty Italian Bread that fills the air, wrapping around you like a warm hug from an old friend. The golden-brown crust crackles as you slice through it, revealing a soft, airy interior that practically begs for a smear of butter or a drizzle of olive oil. pair with Italian Penicillin Soup Each bite transports you to a sun-drenched Italian villa where every meal starts with bread and laughter.

I remember the first time I attempted this recipe; my friends were dubious, eyeing me like I was trying to juggle flaming swords. But as the aroma wafted through my kitchen, their skepticism melted away faster than butter on hot bread. sweet Halloween treats They soon found themselves fighting over the last slice, proving that nothing brings people together quite like homemade Crusty Italian Bread.

I still chuckle recalling how we ended up devouring an entire loaf in one sitting, leaving only crumbs—and perhaps a few guilty glances—behind.

Essential Ingredients

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

• All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best texture and rise; it makes all the difference in your loaf.
• Warm Water: The water should feel comfortably warm to your wrist; too hot will kill the yeast.
• Active Dry Yeast: Ensure it’s fresh; if it bubbles when added to water, it’s good to go!
• Salt: This enhances flavor; don’t skip it unless you want your bread tasting bland.
• Olive Oil: A splash adds richness and moisture; choose a good quality extra virgin for maximum flavor.

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

Let’s Make it together

Activate the Yeast: Combine warm water and yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit until bubbly, about 5-10 minutes. This step ensures your bread will rise beautifully.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Make sure they are well combined to evenly distribute the salt throughout the dough.

Create the Dough: Pour the activated yeast mixture into the dry ingredients along with olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms; don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty!

Knead Your Dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. You’ll know it’s ready when it springs back after being poked!

First Rise: Place your dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—about 1 hour.

Shape and Second Rise: Gently punch down your dough after rising and shape into a round loaf. Let it rise again on a baking sheet for about 30 minutes while preheating your oven.

Now isn’t that just fun? You’re not only making bread but also creating memories (and maybe some flour dust clouds) in your kitchen!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing your dough ingredients thoroughly, then allow it to rise twice for optimal flavor and texture. Shape the loaves gently to maintain air pockets, and bake them at a high temperature for that irresistible crust.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with herbs like rosemary or garlic for added flavor. You can also swap out some all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour if you’re feeling adventurous. Just remember, too much variation can impact the dough’s structure. For more inspiration, check out this smashed potatoes recipe recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover crusty Italian bread in a paper bag at room temperature to maintain its crunch. quick chocolate cookies If you want it warm again, pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes.

Sometimes I bake this bread on rainy days when I need a cozy pick-me-up, and it never fails to bring smiles to my family’s faces.

FAQ

How long does it take to make crusty Italian bread?

For more inspiration, check out this Irish soda bread recipe recipe.

Making crusty Italian bread takes about 3 hours from start to finish, including rising time.

Can I freeze crusty Italian bread?

Yes, you can freeze crusty Italian bread; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap first.

What’s the best way to enjoy crusty Italian bread?

Enjoy crusty Italian bread fresh with olive oil for dipping or alongside your favorite pasta dish.

Print

Crusty Italian Bread

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

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

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Crusty Italian Bread is a warm, inviting delight that fills your kitchen with its irresistible aroma. With a golden-brown crust that crackles upon slicing, this homemade bread features a soft, airy interior perfect for spreading butter or drizzling with olive oil. Ideal for accompanying soups, salads, or simply enjoyed on its own, this recipe is simple enough for beginners while offering rich flavor that will impress your guests. Create unforgettable memories in your kitchen as you bake this crowd-pleaser!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: Combine warm water and yeast in a bowl; let sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. Create the dough: Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients; stir until shaggy.
4. Knead the dough: On a floured surface, knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. First rise: Place in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour.
6. Shape & second rise: Punch down the dough, shape into a round loaf, and let it rise on a baking sheet for another 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 450°F.
7. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for approximately 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: 150
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 0.3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg