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Easy Crusty Homemade Italian Bread

Close-up of a slice showing the airy, open crumb structure of the amazing Italian bread recipe.
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Bake a bakery-style Italian loaf at home with this simple recipe. You get a golden, crunchy crust and a soft, chewy interior using basic pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

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  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 105-115°F)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for greasing

Instructions

  1. Combine the flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl.
  2. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  3. Pour the yeast mixture and the olive oil into the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  5. Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
  6. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  7. Gently punch down the dough. Shape it into a long, round loaf.
  8. Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a prepared loaf pan. Cover loosely and let it rise for a second time for 30 to 45 minutes, or until puffy.
  9. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a shallow pan on the bottom rack to create steam later.
  10. Before baking, lightly brush the top of the loaf with water. If desired, score the top with a sharp knife.
  11. Place the loaf in the oven. Pour about 1/2 cup of hot water into the shallow pan on the bottom rack to create steam, then quickly close the oven door.
  12. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
  13. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • For an extra crispy crust, spray the oven walls with water a few times during the first 10 minutes of baking.
  • If you want a chewier interior, let the dough rise longer during the first proofing stage.
  • This bread is excellent for dipping in olive oil or serving with pasta dishes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookincorner.com/easy-italian-bread-recipe-crusty-joy/