Best Crusty Italian Bread
This Crusty Italian Bread recipe yields a golden, crisp crust with a light and airy crumb inside—perfect for dipping, sandwiches, or enjoying warm with butter. A simple, authentic bread you’ll want to make again and again!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 large loaf
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for softer texture)
- Cornmeal for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the dough: Add flour, salt, and olive oil (if using) to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add flour as needed to prevent sticking.
- First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape and second rise: Punch down the dough and shape it into a round or oblong loaf. Place on a parchment-lined or cornmeal-dusted baking sheet. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
- Preheat oven: While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a pan of water on the bottom rack to create steam.
- Score and bake: Make a few shallow slashes on top of the loaf with a sharp knife. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the crust is deep golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool: Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
- For a crispier crust, mist the loaf with water a few times during baking.
- You can use a baking stone or Dutch oven for an even better crust.
- Replace a portion of flour with whole wheat flour for added texture and flavor.
Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/best-crusty-italian-bread/
