If you’ve ever dreamed of filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of warm, crusty bread straight from the oven, this Italian Bread Recipe is your gateway to homemade bakery bliss. Imagine slicing into a golden loaf that’s perfectly crisp on the outside, yet tender and airy on the inside—just like the kind you’d find on an Italian table. Whether you’re new to bread-making or a seasoned baker, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a showstopping staple that pairs beautifully with everything from hearty pastas to soups or olive oil for dipping.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Great Italian bread starts with a handful of honest, uncomplicated ingredients—and every one of them plays an important role in creating that signature flavor, texture, and gorgeous golden finish. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why each item matters.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough, providing structure and a soft crumb—substitute half for bread flour if you love chewier loaves.
- Warm water (about 110°F): Helps activate the yeast and brings everything together into a smooth, elastic dough.
- Active dry yeast (1 packet): The magical ingredient that gives lift and an irresistible lightness—make sure it’s fresh for best results.
- Sugar: Just a touch sweetens the dough and jumpstarts the yeast for a reliable rise.
- Salt: Essential for well-rounded flavor and to keep the dough’s growth in check.
- Olive oil: Adds moisture, subtle richness, and that signature hint of Mediterranean flair.
- Cornmeal (optional, for dusting): Sprinkling some on your baking sheet gives the bottom crust that delightful crunch and rustic look.
- Egg white (mixed with 1 tablespoon water, for egg wash): Brushed on top for a shiny, golden finish worthy of a bakery window.
How to Make Italian Bread Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by stirring together your warm water, a little sugar, and the yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it turns frothy on top—this means your yeast is alive and kicking, ready to give your Italian Bread Recipe gorgeous lift and airy texture.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk your flour together with the salt. This ensures the salt is evenly dispersed and your bread gets seasoned throughout, not in big salty pockets.
Step 3: Mix and Knead the Dough
Add the foamy yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour, then stir until a rough dough forms. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and, with a bit of muscle and love, knead for 8 to 10 minutes. The dough will become smooth, elastic, and a little springy—a satisfying workout with delicious payoff.
Step 4: First Rise
Transfer your dough to a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once so it’s coated. Cover with a damp towel and let it rise somewhere warm for about an hour, or until it’s doubled in size. This slow, gentle rise adds flavor and transforms the dough into a pillowy cloud.
Step 5: Shape the Loaf
Punch the dough down (it’s more fun than it sounds), then shape it into one long loaf or two smaller ones, depending on your mood. Place your shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet dusted with cornmeal for some rustic flair.
Step 6: Second Rise
Loosely cover the loaf and let it rise again for 30 to 45 minutes. This step gives your Italian Bread Recipe its beautiful final shape and a slightly fluffier texture.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Just before baking, mix the egg white and water, then gently brush it over the top of the loaf. Make a few shallow, diagonal slashes across the top with a sharp knife—these help steam escape and create that iconic look. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the bread is golden, shiny, and sounds hollow when tapped underneath.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, carefully transfer your loaf to a wire rack and let it cool before slicing. This patience pays off—cutting too soon can flatten the loaf or make it gummy, but waiting gives you neat slices and that perfect crumb.
How to Serve Italian Bread Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of beauty and flavor, you can sprinkle your warm loaf with a little flaky sea salt or freshly chopped rosemary just after baking. A light drizzle of olive oil or a dusting of freshly ground black pepper also adds a personal twist that makes every slice stand out.
Side Dishes
This Italian Bread Recipe truly shines alongside classic Italian favorites: serve thick slices with a steaming bowl of minestrone, swipe it through tomato sauce, or pair it with antipasto platters. It’s the perfect companion to creamy pastas, hearty salads, or even a platter of olives and cheeses for a simple appetizer.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t just reserve your bread for mealtimes—get creative! Try making garlic bread by toasting slices with butter and minced garlic, or create bruschetta with fun toppings like tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze. For a crowd-pleasing brunch, use it for savory strata or bread pudding. This loaf loves to be the star of the show!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra bread, keep it fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing in an airtight bag at room temperature. It’s best enjoyed within 2 or 3 days, but even day-old slices are delicious toasted or grilled.
Freezing
This Italian Bread Recipe is a champion at making ahead. Once the loaf is completely cool, wrap it tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze. When you crave homemade bread, just thaw at room temperature—no bakery trip (or guilt) required!
Reheating
To revive day-old or frozen bread, pop slices or the whole loaf into a 350°F oven for 5 to 10 minutes. This brings back that irresistible crisp crust and pillowy-soft interior, making every bite taste freshly baked all over again.
FAQs
Can I substitute bread flour for all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! Using bread flour will give your loaf an even chewier texture and heartier bite. It’s fun to experiment with mixing half bread flour and half all-purpose to land somewhere in the middle—especially if you crave a more rustic Italian Bread Recipe.
What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
No stand mixer? No problem! This dough comes together easily by hand. The kneading process is therapeutic and hands-on, helping develop gluten and that traditional Italian bread chewiness.
How do I get an extra-crispy crust?
For a bakery-style crispy crust, place a pan of hot water on the oven’s lower rack while you bake. The steam creates a beautiful, crackly exterior, making your Italian Bread Recipe truly unforgettable.
Can I shape the bread differently?
Definitely! This recipe is versatile—shape your dough into round boules, long baguettes, or even divide it into rolls. Just watch the baking time, as it may vary depending on shape and size.
What’s the best way to use leftover Italian bread?
Stale bread is kitchen gold! Turn cubed leftovers into crunchy croutons, make a savory bread pudding, or use slices for French toast. This Italian Bread Recipe makes sure not a crumb goes to waste.
Final Thoughts
I can’t encourage you enough to dive in and bake this Italian Bread Recipe—it’s simple, rewarding, and will have everyone gathering in your kitchen for just one more slice. With each rise and every golden crust, you’ll taste the love that homemade bread brings. Give it a try and savor the warmth of Italy, fresh from your own oven!
Print
Italian Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours (including rise time)
- Yield: 1 large loaf or 2 small loaves 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make delicious Italian Bread at home with this easy recipe. This crusty bread has a soft interior and is perfect for sandwiches or to accompany your favorite dishes.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Additional:
- Optional: cornmeal for dusting
- 1 egg white mixed with 1 tablespoon water for egg wash
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let sit until foamy, about 5–10 minutes.
- Mix Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until dough forms.
- Knead: On a floured surface, knead dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
- Rise: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
- Shape and Rise Again: Shape into loaves, place on a baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 30–45 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F. Brush with egg wash, slash the top, and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Cool: Cool on a rack before slicing.
Notes
- For a crispier crust, add a pan of water in the oven while baking.
- This bread freezes well—wrap tightly once cooled.
- You can substitute half the flour with bread flour for a chewier texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of loaf)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
