Description
This Crusty Italian Bread is light, chewy inside with a beautifully crisp crust. Whether paired with pasta, used for sandwiches, or simply dipped in olive oil, it’s a foolproof homemade bread you’ll be proud to serve.
Ingredients
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3½ cups all-purpose or bread flour
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1½ tsp salt
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1 tbsp sugar
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2¼ tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
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1¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)
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1 tbsp olive oil (plus more for brushing)
Instructions
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Mix dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Add warm water and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
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Knead: Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise 1 hour or until doubled.
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Shape: Punch down dough, form into an oval or baguette-style loaf, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Second rise: Cover and let rise another 30–45 minutes.
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Bake: Brush loaf with olive oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, until crusty and golden brown.
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Cool: Cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
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Add sesame or poppy seeds on top for added texture.
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For extra crunch, place a pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam.
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Perfect for garlic bread, bruschetta, or dipping into soups.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1.5 hours rising)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 170
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g