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Homemade Italian Bread

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This Homemade Italian Bread features a crisp crust and soft, airy interior, perfect for sandwiches or as a side to any Italian meal.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, dissolve sugar and yeast in warm water; let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
  3. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture; stir until a dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
  6. Punch the dough down and shape it into a loaf; place on a greased baking sheet or parchment-lined pan.
  7. Cover and let rise again for 30-45 minutes.
  8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  9. Make a few diagonal slashes on top of the loaf with a sharp knife.
  10. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  11. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

For an extra crispy crust, place an oven-safe dish with water on the bottom rack during baking to create steam.

Find it online: https://foodsforyoursoul.com/homemade-italian-bread/