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Easy Crusty Homemade Italian Bread

Close-up of a freshly baked Italian bread slice showing a golden, crackly crust and an airy, open crumb structure.
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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 (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine 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 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 oil a clean bowl. Place the dough in the bowl, turning 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 long, oval loaf.
  8. Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or on a pizza stone. Cover loosely and let it rise for a second time for 30 minutes.
  9. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a shallow pan on the bottom rack to create steam.
  10. Brush the top of the loaf lightly with water or olive oil. Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife 2 or 3 times.
  11. Carefully 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 sounds hollow when tapped.
  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 softer crust, skip the steam pan and brush the loaf with melted butter immediately after it comes out of the oven.
  • This bread is excellent for dipping in olive oil or serving with pasta dishes.

Nutrition

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