Homemade Italian Bread
Indulge in the rustic charm of Homemade Italian Bread, a timeless recipe that brings the authentic flavors of Italy straight to your kitchen. Crafted with simple pantry staples like all-purpose flour, olive oil, and active dry yeast, this bread boasts a soft, airy interior and a perfectly golden crust brushed with a glossy egg wash. The slow rise ensures maximum flavor and irresistibly tender texture, while the iconic diagonal slashes on top add a bakery-worthy touch. Whether served warm with olive oil and herbs, paired with hearty soups, or used to elevate sandwiches, this Italian bread is a versatile favorite. Easy to make and impressively delicious, it’s your go-to recipe for fresh-from-the-oven goodness that your family will love.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 cups All-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups Warm water (between 110°F-115°F)
- 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons Granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons Salt
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 large Egg white
- 1 tablespoon Water (for egg wash)
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center, then pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add a little extra flour if the dough is too sticky.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
Punch the dough down to release the air and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape the dough into a long loaf or divide it into two smaller loaves.
Place the shaped loaf (or loaves) onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with a towel and let rise for an additional 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Whisk together the egg white and 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush the top of the loaf with the egg wash for a golden, shiny finish.
Using a sharp knife, make 3-4 diagonal slashes about 1/4 inch deep across the top of the loaf.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy fresh or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2070 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 33.0 g | 42% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.1 g | 26% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 4787 mg | 208% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 378.2 g | 138% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.5 g | 52% | |
| Total Sugars | 9.7 g | ||
| Protein | 55.8 g | 112% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 70 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 22.8 mg | 127% | |
| Potassium | 711 mg | 15% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
