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Easy Crusty Italian Bread: Bakery-Style Loaf with Soft Interior

Close-up of a freshly baked italian bread loaf, cut in half to show the open, airy crumb structure.
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Make a bakery-style Italian bread at home that features a perfectly crackly, golden crust and a soft, chewy interior. This simple recipe is fast and great for beginners.

Ingredients

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  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 105-115°F)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for coating)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
  2. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  3. Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  5. Lightly oil a clean bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
  6. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 60 to 90 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
  7. Gently punch down the risen dough. Shape it into a long, rustic loaf shape on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  8. Cover the loaf loosely and let it rest for a second rise for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) during this time. For extra crust, place a shallow pan on the bottom rack while preheating to create steam.
  9. Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife 2 or 3 times.
  10. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). If using the steam pan, carefully pour 1 cup of hot water into the pan right before closing the oven door.
  11. Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

  • For a crispier crust, spray the loaf with water a few times during the first 10 minutes of baking.
  • This bread is excellent for dipping into olive oil or serving with pasta sauces.
  • If you want a faster rise, place the dough in a slightly warmer spot, like inside an oven that has been turned off after warming up for a minute.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenslang.com/easy-crusty-italian-bread-recipe/