Crusty Italian Bread Recipe
This homemade crusty Italian bread has a perfectly crisp golden crust and a soft, fluffy interior. Simple ingredients, easy steps, and bakery-quality results.
Ingredients
- 4 cups bread flour
- 1 ½ cups warm water 110°F-115°F
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Cornmeal optional, for dusting
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Create a well and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until combined.
- Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-1.5 hours until doubled.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Let it rise again for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C) with a Dutch oven inside.
- Place dough into the hot Dutch oven, cover, and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- If you don’t have a Dutch oven, place a pan of hot water on the bottom rack to create steam for a crispier crust.
- Add fresh rosemary, garlic, or sesame seeds for extra flavor.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.