Homemade Italian Bread
This Homemade Italian Bread features a crisp golden crust and a soft, airy interior, perfect for sandwiches or as a side to your favorite Italian dishes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8 servings)
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water; sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour; stir until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf; place it on a greased baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
- Cover and let it rise again for 30 minutes until puffed.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Optionally, score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife to create slashes.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
For extra flavor, brush the top with garlic butter right after baking or sprinkle some herbs like rosemary before baking.
Find it online: https://youreverydayfoodie.com/homemade-italian-bread/