Best Crusty Italian Bread

Best Crusty Italian Bread is a delightfully chewy bread with a perfectly crisp crust. It’s not heavy or overly dense either. I think it’s a perfect bread for any meal, and if you’re not a fan of crusty bread, feel free to make it slightly softer by adjusting the baking time.

It will still be undeniably delicious! If you’re looking for a rustic and flavorful bread that’s not overly complicated, you’ve come to the right place. When you make this airy, crusty bread and pair it with your favorite dishes, you get the perfect accompaniment. The addition of a golden, crisp crust just sends it over the top. I’ve really been in the mood for some homemade comfort and this crusty bread reminds me of cozy, home-cooked meals. Not a fan of crusty bread? Don’t worry, it’s still delicious with a slightly softer crust.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet or pizza stone
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife or bread lame
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Cooling rack

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir until the yeast is dissolved and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
   • Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
   • Mix with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
4. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Dough:
   • Punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a round or oval loaf.
6. Second Rise:
   • Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size again.
7. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a baking sheet or pizza stone in the oven while it preheats.
8. Score the Dough:
   • Once the dough has risen, use a sharp knife or bread lame to make a few shallow slashes on the top. This allows the bread to expand properly while baking.
9. Bake the Bread:
   • Transfer the dough on the parchment paper to the preheated baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Cool the Bread:
    • Transfer the baked bread to a cooling rack and let it cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy this Best Crusty Italian Bread fresh out of the oven with a drizzle of olive oil or alongside your favorite meals. Its delightful chewiness and crisp crust make it an irresistible addition to any table!