Description
Bake perfect crusty Italian bread every time with this simple, stress-free recipe. Designed for beginners, this guide makes creating artisan bread fun and rewarding. Enjoy a delicious, homemade loaf with a satisfyingly crisp crust.
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a rough dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F. Place a baking stone or an inverted baking sheet in the oven to heat.
- Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a piece of parchment paper.
- Cover the loaf with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Using a sharp knife, make a few slashes on the top of the loaf. Carefully transfer the loaf (with the parchment paper) onto the hot baking stone or sheet.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian