Homemade Italian Bread
This Homemade Italian Bread features a crusty golden exterior and a soft, airy interior, perfect for sandwiches or alongside your favorite Italian dishes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8 servings)
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it on a baking sheet dusted with flour.
- Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Make a few diagonal slashes on the loaf with a sharp knife.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
For an extra flavorful crust, brush the loaf with olive oil before baking or sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Find it online: https://foodiedishes.com/homemade-italian-bread/