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Easy Crusty Homemade Italian Bread

Close-up of a freshly baked Italian bread loaf cut in half, showing an open, airy crumb and a deeply browned, crackly crust.
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Bake bakery-style Italian bread 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 (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar.
  2. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  3. Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix 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 oil a clean bowl. Place the dough in the bowl, turning once to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel.
  6. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 60 to 90 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
  7. Gently punch down the dough. Shape it into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a loaf pan.
  8. Cover the loaf again and let it rise for a second time for 30 to 45 minutes.
  9. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack to create steam for a crispier crust.
  10. Brush the top of the loaf lightly with water or olive oil. Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife if desired.
  11. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
  12. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • For a crispier crust, spray the oven walls with water a few times during the first 10 minutes of baking.
  • This bread is excellent for dipping in olive oil or serving with pasta sauces.
  • If you want a faster rise, place the dough in a slightly warmer spot, but avoid direct heat sources.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyfelix.com/easy-italian-bread-recipe-crusty-homemade/