Crusty Italian Bread Recipe : Easy Homemade Delight

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There’s something undeniably comforting about freshly baked crusty Italian bread. Its golden, crisp crust and soft, chewy interior make it the perfect companion to any meal, from hearty soups to pasta dishes or even as a standalone snack with butter or olive oil. Making this bread at home is not only rewarding but also surprisingly simple, even for beginners.

This recipe simplifies the process, guiding you through each step to achieve that bakery-style loaf right in your kitchen. With basic ingredients and a little patience, you’ll create a bread that rivals any store-bought version. Whether you’re serving it with a meal, crafting sandwiches, or just enjoying a slice warm from the oven, this crusty Italian bread will quickly become a household favorite.

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe

  1. Simple Ingredients: All you need are pantry staples like flour, yeast, salt, and water.
  2. Versatile Uses: Pair it with savory dips, use it for sandwiches, or enjoy it plain.
  3. Beginner-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for novice bakers with step-by-step instructions.
  4. Customizable: Add herbs, cheese, or seeds to make it your own.
  5. Irresistible Texture: The crisp crust and airy interior are bakery-quality.

This bread is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking to elevate a weeknight meal. With a short prep time and minimal effort, you’ll love how easy it is to create something so impressive.

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Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups (450g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 ½ tsp instant yeast
  • 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)

Equipment Used

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon
  • Dutch oven or baking stone
  • Parchment paper
  • Kitchen scale (optional)

Directions & Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add warm water, mixing with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.
  2. First Rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let the dough rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  3. Shape the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Gently shape it into a round loaf, being careful not to overwork the dough. Place it on parchment paper.
  4. Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 450°F, placing a Dutch oven inside to heat.
  5. Bake the Bread: Carefully place the dough (with parchment) into the preheated Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
  6. Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

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Nutritional Information

  • Calories: 140 per slice
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 1g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 0g

Prep Time and Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Rising Time: 2 ½ hours
  • Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes

Variations

  1. Herb-Infused Bread: Add 1 tsp of dried rosemary or thyme to the dough.
  2. Cheesy Crust: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan on top before baking.
  3. Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this bread without a Dutch oven?
Yes! Use a baking stone or sheet pan. Place a pan of water in the oven for steam to achieve a crusty exterior.

2. How do I store leftover bread?
Store in an airtight bag at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure you have a large enough bowl and baking equipment.

Pro Tips By Elisa

  • Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements.
  • Don’t skip the second rise; it helps develop the bread’s texture.
  • Preheat your Dutch oven for the best crust.
  • For extra flavor, brush the crust with olive oil after baking.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Serve warm with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
  2. Pair with soups like tomato bisque or minestrone.
  3. Use for gourmet sandwiches or bruschetta.

Crusty Italian Bread Recipe – Easy Homemade Delight

Elisa
There’s something undeniably comforting about freshly baked crusty Italian bread. Its golden, crisp crust and soft, chewy interior make it the perfect companion to any meal, from hearty soups to pasta dishes or even as a standalone snack with butter or olive oil.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Rising Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Course Appetizer, bread
Cuisine Italian
Calories 140 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon
  • Dutch oven or baking stone
  • Parchment paper
  • Kitchen scale (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 3 ½ cups 450g all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 ½ tsp instant yeast
  • 1 ½ cups warm water 110°F

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add warm water, mixing with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.
  • First Rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let the dough rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  • Shape the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Gently shape it into a round loaf, being careful not to overwork the dough. Place it on parchment paper.
  • Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 450°F, placing a Dutch oven inside to heat.
  • Bake the Bread: Carefully place the dough (with parchment) into the preheated Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
  • Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

Serve warm with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
Pair with soups like tomato bisque or minestrone.
Keyword appetizer, Easy Bread Recipes For Beginners