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Easy Crusty Italian Bread: Bakery Style Loaf at Home

A freshly baked Italian bread loaf, sliced open to show the airy interior and golden crust, resting on a wooden board.
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Bake a bakery-style Italian bread with a golden, crispy crust and a soft, chewy interior. This beginner-friendly recipe uses simple ingredients and fast-rising yeast for quick results.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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 1/4 cups warm water (about 105-115°F)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for the bowl

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
  2. Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. It should be slightly tacky but not sticky.
  4. Lightly oil a large bowl. Place the dough in the bowl and turn it over to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
  5. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 45 to 60 minutes, or until it has doubled in size. This is a quick rising method.
  6. Gently punch down the dough. Shape it into a tight loaf or oval shape.
  7. Place the shaped loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a loaf pan. Cover loosely and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
  8. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a shallow pan on the bottom rack while preheating to create steam.
  9. Just before baking, slash the top of the loaf once or twice with a sharp knife. Carefully pour 1 cup of hot water into the preheated shallow pan to create steam, then quickly close the oven door.
  10. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
  11. Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

  • For an extra crispy crust, lightly spritz the loaf with water every 5 minutes during the first 15 minutes of baking.
  • If you are planning your week, consider how this fresh bread pairs with a good meal planning service for easy weeknight dinners.
  • This bread is excellent served warm with olive oil or used for bruschetta.

Nutrition

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