Crusty Italian Bread Recipe

Introduction

Crusty Italian Bread is a classic loaf known for its golden, crunchy exterior and soft, airy interior. Perfect for sandwiches or as a side to soups and salads, it’s a simple bread that elevates any meal.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 teaspoons salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Step 2: Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture, then stir until a rough dough forms.
3. Step 3: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Step 4: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, until doubled in size.
5. Step 5: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Shape the dough into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet or in a bread pan.
6. Step 6: Make several slashes across the top with a sharp knife to help the bread expand while baking.
7. Step 7: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Step 8: Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Tips & Variations

• For a more flavorful crust, place a pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam.
• Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with bread flour for a chewier texture.
• Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the dough for a softer crumb and richer taste.

Storage

Store the bread in a paper bag or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel at room temperature for up to two days. To refresh crusty texture, briefly reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes. For longer storage, freeze the bread wrapped tightly in foil for up to one month; thaw and reheat before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast by adding it directly to the flour without dissolving it in water. Adjust the quantity slightly if needed, as instant yeast can be more potent.

Why isn’t my bread crusty after baking?

To achieve a crusty exterior, make sure to bake at a high temperature and consider adding steam to the oven by placing a pan of hot water inside. Also, avoid wrapping the bread while it cools, as trapped moisture softens the crust.

Crusty Italian Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 143 reviews

This Crusty Italian Bread recipe delivers a classic, golden-brown loaf with a delightfully chewy texture and a crisp crust. Perfect for sandwiches, dipping in olive oil, or serving alongside Italian dishes, this simple bread uses just four basic ingredients to create an authentic homemade loaf with an irresistible crustiness.

• Author: Mick
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf (about 12 slices) 1x
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (about 480g)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
• 2 teaspoons salt

Instructions

1. Mix Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add the warm water while stirring until a sticky dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Let Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
3. Bake Until Crusty: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a baking stone or heavy baking sheet inside to heat up. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a piece of parchment paper. Score the top with a sharp knife to allow expansion. Transfer the dough onto the hot baking stone, add steam by placing a pan of water in the oven or misting water inside, and bake for 25-30 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Notes

• Use warm water to activate the yeast properly, but make sure it is not too hot to kill the yeast.
• For a crunchier crust, create steam in the oven during the first 10 minutes of baking.
• Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack to finish the cooking process and avoid sogginess.
• Store leftover bread in a paper bag to maintain the crust crispiness.

Keywords: Crusty Italian Bread, Homemade Bread, Italian Loaf, Artisan Bread, Easy Bread Recipe