Perfect Crusty Italian Bread Recipe You Must Try Today

There’s something magical about the aroma of Crusty Italian Bread wafting through your kitchen. Just picture it: a golden, crusty exterior giving way to a soft, pillowy interior that practically begs for a smear of butter or a drizzle of olive oil. Garlic Butter Beef Bites Cheesy Garlic Bread pairing This rustic delight is not just food; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds and warms your heart. Creamy Ranch Chicken.

As the bread bakes, you can almost hear it whispering secrets of Italian kitchens, where generations have perfected this art. Whether it’s served alongside a hearty pasta dish or simply enjoyed with a glass of wine, Crusty Italian Bread is perfect for any occasion—be it family gatherings, romantic dinners, or cozy nights in. Savory Cranberry Tartlets The anticipation builds as you wait for that first slice; it promises an amazing flavor experience that will leave you craving more.

I still remember the first time I baked this bread. My family gobbled it up so fast I barely got to enjoy my masterpiece!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best structure and texture in your bread.
• Active Dry Yeast: Make sure it’s fresh; check the expiration date for optimal rising power.
• Warm Water: Aim for about 110°F (43°C) to wake up those sleepy yeast granules.
• Salt: Essential for flavor—opt for sea salt if you want to feel fancy.
• Olive Oil: A splash adds richness; choose extra virgin for its robust flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Activate Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit until frothy, about 5–10 minutes. This step ensures your bread rises beautifully. For more inspiration, check out this cinnamon sugar donut bread recipe.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour and salt. This blend creates the foundation of your dough and prevents clumping. For more inspiration, check out this orange sweet rolls recipe recipe.

Create Dough: Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture along with olive oil. Stir until combined; the dough should be shaggy yet cohesive.

Knead Dough: Transfer dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Your arms get a workout while creating magic!

First Rise: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (about 1 hour). Be patient; good things come to those who wait!

Shape Bread & Second Rise: Punch down the dough gently, shape into a loaf or round ball, and place on parchment paper. Cover again and let rise until puffy (30–45 minutes).

Bake & Enjoy!: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Bake bread for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. Enjoy that heavenly aroma filling your home!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the ingredients to form a dough, then let it rise until doubled. Shape it into loaves and bake in a preheated oven for a golden crust.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with additions like olives or herbs for flavor. You can also swap out some flour for whole wheat for a hearty twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store your crusty Italian bread in a paper bag at room temperature. For reheating, wrap in foil and bake at 350°F until warm.

Baking crusty Italian bread always brings back memories of family gatherings where we’d tear off pieces and dip them in olive oil. Those moments made me realize the power of homemade bread.

FAQ

Can I use whole wheat flour for crusty Italian bread?

Yes, substituting up to half of the flour with whole wheat works well.

How long does crusty Italian bread stay fresh?

When stored properly, it stays fresh for about two days.

What temperature should I bake crusty Italian bread?

Bake at 425°F for optimal crust development and color.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Crusty Italian Bread

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Crusty Italian Bread is a delightful homemade staple that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. With its golden-brown crust and soft, airy interior, this bread is perfect for pairing with olive oil, soups, or pasta dishes. Simple to make yet impressive in taste, it’s the ideal accompaniment for any meal or gathering. Experience the joy of baking as you create a loaf that not only satisfies but also evokes memories of family and warmth.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 tsp sea salt
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. 1. Activate Yeast: Combine warm water and yeast in a bowl; let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. 2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. 3. Create Dough: Add yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture; stir until shaggy.
4. 4. Knead Dough: Place dough on a floured surface; knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
5. 5. First Rise: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for about 1 hour until doubled.
6. 6. Shape & Second Rise: Punch down dough, shape into a loaf, place on parchment paper, cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
7. 7. Bake & Enjoy: Preheat oven to 450°F; bake bread for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (50g)
• Calories: 140
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg