Description
This homemade Italian bread has a golden, crusty exterior and soft, airy interior. Made with simple ingredients, it’s perfect as a side dish or enjoyed with olive oil.
Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
1 1/4 cups warm water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cornmeal (optional)
Instructions
- Combine the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
- Dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture and add the olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if needed.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, until it doubles in size.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and sprinkle a baking sheet with cornmeal for a rustic touch.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and shape it into a round or oval loaf. Place it on the prepared baking sheet.
- Make a few shallow slashes on top of the loaf using a sharp knife.
- Let the dough rest for 20-30 minutes to rise slightly.
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a herb-infused version, add rosemary or thyme to the dough.
For garlic bread, mix in minced garlic or garlic powder.
For a cheesy crust, add shredded cheese like Parmesan or mozzarella inside the dough or on top before baking.
For a hearty version, use half or all whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Store leftover bread in a paper bag or kitchen towel. Freeze for up to 1 month.
Reheat the bread in a warm oven for about 10 minutes to revive the crispy crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 1.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
