Easy Homemade Crusty Italian Bread Recipe (Print Version)
Bake a loaf of crusty Italian bread at home with this easy-to-follow recipe. Achieve a golden crust and soft interior, great for any meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Servings: 10 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
Dietary: Vegetarian, Vegan
# Ingredients:
→ The Foundation Dough
01 -
3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
02 -
1 cup bread flour (for added chewiness)
03 -
1 1/2 cups warm water (105-115°F)
04 -
2 teaspoons fine sea salt
→ The Active Rise
05 -
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one standard packet)
06 -
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
→ Golden Crust & Italian Essence
07 -
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for the dough)
08 -
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for brushing)
09 -
1 tablespoon fine cornmeal (for dusting baking sheet)
10 -
1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt (for sprinkling on top)
11 -
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for a subtle aroma)
12 -
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano (optional, for an herbal note)
13 -
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of warmth)
# Instructions:
01 -
Combine 1 1/2 cups warm water (105-115°F), 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon granulated sugar in a large bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This kickstarts your Homemade Crusty Italian Bread - Easy Recipe.
02 -
To the yeast mixture, add 3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour, 1 cup bread flour, 2 teaspoons fine sea salt, and 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil. Mix with a wooden spoon or stand mixer until a shaggy dough forms.
03 -
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
04 -
Gently punch down the dough. Shape it into an oval or round loaf. Dust a baking sheet with 1 tablespoon fine cornmeal. Place the loaf on it, cover loosely, and let rise for another 30-45 minutes. Preheat oven to 450°F.
05 -
Just before baking, use a sharp knife to make 2-3 diagonal slashes on top of the loaf. Brush with 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt, and optionally 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
06 -
Bake for 20 minutes at 450°F. Reduce oven temperature to 400°F and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. This ensures a perfect Homemade Crusty Italian Bread - Easy Recipe.
07 -
Transfer the baked bread to a wire rack and let it cool completely before slicing. This is crucial for the crust and texture of your Homemade Crusty Italian Bread - Easy Recipe. Enjoy warm with your favorite meal.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra crusty exterior, place a shallow pan of hot water on the bottom rack of your oven during the first 10-15 minutes of baking.
02 -
Store leftover bread at room temperature in a paper bag for up to 2 days, or freeze sliced bread for longer storage. Reheat briefly in the oven for freshness.
03 -
While all-purpose flour works, using bread flour significantly improves the chewiness and structure of your Italian bread. Don't skip it if you want that authentic texture!
04 -
This bread is fantastic for dipping in olive oil, alongside pasta dishes, or as the base for bruschetta.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large mixing bowl
02 -
Measuring cups and spoons
03 -
Whisk
04 -
Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
05 -
Clean kitchen towel
06 -
Baking sheet
07 -
Parchment paper
08 -
Cooling rack
09 -
Sharp knife or bread lame
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 212 kcal
Total Fat: 5 g
Total Carbohydrate: 37 g
Protein: 5 g