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Crusty Italian Bread


  • Author: Sara McKenney
  • Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (8 servings)
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Bring the bakery experience home with this crusty Italian bread that features a golden, crispy exterior and a soft, airy interior. Perfect for a quick breakfast, easy dinner, or as a healthy snack, this easy recipe fits effortlessly into your list of food ideas.


Ingredients

4 cups bread flour

1 1/2 cups warm water

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

2 teaspoons salt

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon sugar

Extra flour or cornmeal for dusting


Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit until foamy.

2. Mix flour and salt in a large bowl, then add yeast mixture and olive oil.

3. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

4. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.

5. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled.

6. Shape into a round loaf and place on a prepared surface.

7. Let the dough rise again until slightly puffy.

8. Preheat oven and score the top of the dough.

9. Add steam to the oven and bake until golden brown.

10. Cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Use warm—not hot—water to properly activate yeast.

Allow enough rising time for better flavor and texture.

Steam in the oven is essential for achieving a crispy crust.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 170
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 1.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1.0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 1.5g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: quick breakfast, easy dinner, healthy snack, bread recipe, homemade bread