Golden, Crusty Italian Bread Recipe: Your New Baking Obsession

There’s something uniquely magical about baking bread at home. The aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen is enough to transport you to the quaint streets of Italy, where life slows down and every meal is a celebration. With this crusty Italian bread recipe, you can recreate that experience in your own home.

This recipe is more than just bread; it’s a journey into the heart of Italian tradition. With its golden crust and soft, airy interior, this bread is perfect for pairing with soups, pasta, or simply enjoying with a drizzle of olive oil. What sets this bread apart is its rustic simplicity. You don’t need fancy equipment or years of baking experience—just a love for good food and a little patience.

So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to impress your friends and family with a loaf of bread that looks, smells, and tastes like it came straight from a traditional Italian bakery.

Crusty Italian Bread Recipe

Recipe by Soukayna

0.0 from 0 votes

Cuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

12

servings

Prep time

2

hours 

20

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Calories

150

kcal

Create a rustic masterpiece with this crusty Italian bread recipe! With a golden crust and a fluffy interior, this Italian crusty bread recipe is perfect for family dinners, sandwiches, or a delicious snack with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Let the authentic flavors of Italy fill your kitchen with this satisfying homemade bread recipe.

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Ingredients

• 3 ¾ cups (500 g) all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ teaspoons salt

• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast

• 1 ½ cups (360 ml) lukewarm water

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Cornmeal or flour for dusting

Directions

• Activate the Yeast:
  In a small bowl, mix the lukewarm water with sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
• Prepare the Dough:
  In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
• Knead:
  Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
• First Proof:
  Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
• Shape the Dough:
  Punch down the dough and shape it into a round or oblong loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and dusted with cornmeal or flour.
• Second Proof:
  Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rise for another 30-40 minutes.
• Prepare for Baking:
  Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Place an empty baking tray on the bottom rack. Before baking, score the top of the dough with a sharp knife.
• Bake:
  Place the bread in the oven, and quickly pour a cup of hot water into the empty tray to create steam. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
• Cool:
  Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

• Use high-quality olive oil for authentic flavor.
• Ensure the water is lukewarm to activate the yeast properly.
• Do not skip scoring the bread; it helps control the expansion during baking.

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Tips for Perfect Crusty Italian Bread

1. The Right Water Temperature: Ensure your water is between 100°F and 110°F. Too hot, and it will kill the yeast; too cold, and it won’t activate.
2. Achieve a Perfect Crust: If you want an even crunchier crust, brush the dough with water before baking.
3. Choose Your Flour Wisely: For a slightly more rustic texture, substitute 1 cup of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
4. Patience is Key: Rushing the proofing process will result in dense bread. Let the dough rise until it doubles in size.
5. Oven Positioning: Place your loaf on the middle rack for even heat distribution.

Recipe Variants

1. Herb-Infused Crusty Bread: Add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic twist.
2. Garlic Parmesan Bread: Incorporate minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese into the dough before kneading.
3. Olive Bread: Mix in chopped olives for a Mediterranean touch.
4. Sweet Italian Bread: Add 2 tablespoons of sugar and a handful of raisins to create a sweet version perfect for breakfast.

Recipe Proposition

If you enjoyed this recipe, you’ll love our Focaccia Bread Recipe. It’s another classic Italian bread that’s perfect for dipping, sharing, and savoring!

FAQs about Crusty Italian Bread Recipe

Nutrition Information

This crusty Italian bread recipe is a wholesome addition to your meals. A single serving (approximately one slice) contains:

• Calories: ~120 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~24g
• Protein: ~4g
• Fat: ~1g
• Fiber: ~1g

Health Benefits of Crusty Italian Bread

1. Low in Fat: This bread is naturally low in fat, making it a great choice for a balanced diet.
2. High in Carbohydrates: It provides a steady source of energy, perfect for pairing with protein-rich dishes.
3. No Preservatives: Homemade bread eliminates the need for artificial preservatives, making it healthier than many store-bought options.
4. Customizable Nutrition: By adding seeds or whole grains, you can boost the fiber and nutrient content.
5. Supports Digestion: Fermentation during proofing enhances the digestibility of the bread.

Baking this crusty Italian bread recipe is more than just a culinary activity—it’s an experience that brings the spirit of Italy into your kitchen. The golden crust, tender crumb, and rustic appeal of this bread make it an irresistible centerpiece for any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe is straightforward, rewarding, and versatile.

So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, take a leap into Italian baking tradition, and enjoy the satisfaction of pulling a perfectly baked loaf out of your oven. With every bite, you’ll be reminded of the joy of homemade food, crafted with love and simplicity.