Description
Crusty Italian Bread is a delightful homemade treat that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread. With a golden, crunchy crust and a soft, airy interior, this bread is perfect for sharing at family dinners or enjoying solo with olive oil. This easy-to-follow recipe captures the essence of traditional Italian baking, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Get ready to impress your guests with this comforting, rustic loaf that evokes warmth and nostalgia.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 2 tsp sea salt
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, stir warm water and yeast. Let it sit until frothy (5-10 minutes).
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in activated yeast mixture and olive oil; stir to form a shaggy dough.
- Knead the Dough: On a floured surface, knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled (1-2 hours).
- Shape and Second Rise: Punch down the dough, shape into a round loaf, and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C), score the top of the loaf, then bake 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: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg