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Easy Crusty Italian Bread Recipe: Bakery Style Loaf at Home

Close-up of a freshly baked Italian bread loaf, showing the open, airy crumb structure and golden crust.
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Bake bakery-style Italian bread with a golden, crispy crust and a soft, chewy interior. This simple recipe is perfect for beginners and uses basic pantry ingredients for a warm loaf ready in a few hours.

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 1/4 cups warm water (about 105-115°F)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it stand for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy. This confirms your yeast is active.
  2. Add the olive oil, salt, and half of the flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until just combined.
  3. Gradually add the remaining flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 6 to 8 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 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is your first rise.
  7. Gently punch down the dough. Shape it into a rustic loaf or place it in a lightly greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  8. Cover the shaped dough again and let it rise for another 30 to 45 minutes, or until puffy. This is your second rise.
  9. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a shallow pan on the bottom rack to create steam; you will pour water into this later.
  10. Lightly score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife if desired. Carefully pour 1 cup of hot water into the shallow pan on the bottom rack to create steam for a crisp crust.
  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 immediately transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

  • For an extra crispy crust, spray the loaf with water a few times during the first 10 minutes of baking.
  • If you want to use this for sandwiches, a 9×5 inch loaf pan works well for a uniform shape.
  • This bread is excellent served warm with olive oil for dipping.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cravybite.link/easy-crusty-italian-bread-recipe/