Homemade Bread Recipes - Crusty Italian Bread You’ll Love
There’s something about pulling a warm loaf of bread from the oven that makes the kitchen feel alive. This crusty Italian bread takes me right back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the scent of fresh dough was practically a part of the wallpaper. We’d tear off hunks while it was still steaming, the butter melting before it even touched the surface.
It’s not just about the bread though, is it? It’s about slowing down, letting the dough rise while you sip a coffee, and feeling that little thrill when the crust starts to brown in the oven. I’ve made plenty of loaves in my time, but this one? This one is my comfort bread. It’s easy to make, forgiving if you’re new to baking, and the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a pro without having to actually be one.
Whether you’re into Easy Bread Recipes, Quick Breads Recipes, the hunt for the Best Homemade Bread, or you just want to add to your collection of Sweet Bread Recipes, Keto Bread Recipes, and Quick Bread Recipes, this loaf fits right in. Trust me—you’re going to want to keep this one close.
Servings: 12 slices
Ingredients
- 4 cups bread flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, shape into a loaf, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
- Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Using a sharp knife, make 3–4 slashes on top of the loaf.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and crusty.
- Cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with butter or olive oil.