Craft this simple yet comforting loaf of bread with your next batch of stew, or slice it up to use for sandwiches.
Almost every time my big Italian-American family gathers for a meal, without fail, someone brings a loaf of Italian bread. But it’s been a few years since anyone took the time to make it from scratch. The convenience of picking it up at the store is just too tempting! But let me tell you, when you have this handy recipe up your chef’s sleeve, you’ll never want to buy another plastic-wrapped loaf again. This homemade Italian bread is fresh, light, and ideal for all kinds of meals.
If you’re intimidated by bread-making like I used to be, don’t worry. This recipe makes it simple and straightforward, so you don’t have to stumble through the process of proofing the dough or making sure it’s cooked all the way through. Each step gets you cleanly to the results you want—namely, a stunning and tasty loaf of Italian bread that works great as either a dippable side or sandwich slices. Whether it’s pasta, soup, or paninis, Italian bread can complete your meal nicely.
What makes this bread Italian?
At first glance, this might just look like any other loaf of bread out there. But Italian bread is iconic specifically for its use of olive oil and sugar, to give the bread just the right amount of moisture, flavor, and fluff. Unlike some other breads, which are crispier on the outside, Italian bread is consistently tender, with a light golden crust instead of dark golden brown. Although these distinctions are subtle, you’ll definitely notice the difference when you eat a slice of this loaf side-by-side with another kind, like a crispy baguette.
How do I store leftovers?
Want your Italian loaf to stay as fresh as possible? Wrap it in a plastic or paper bag and store it somewhere cool and dry in your kitchen for up to 3 days. Keep it away from warm places, like a sunny window or well-used oven, in order to prevent mold. For long-term storage, slice it up and transfer the slices to a freezer-safe container to freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving suggestions
After making Italian bread a few times, you might think to yourself, “Okay, what can’t I do with this loaf?” And I had a similar reaction! After all, it goes great with Instant-Pot Pasta E Fagioli Soup, Chicken Spaghetti, Slow-Cooker Italian Wedding Soup, or even just a simple Italian Salad. My family and I love soaking up our extra sauce and broth with this bread; it’s nearly a tradition. But then there’s the less traditional but just as delicious Tomato Sandwich, Avocado Egg Sandwich, or Eggless French Toast. No matter the time of day, Italian bread can play a simple yet integral role at your dining table.
Ingredients
- 1 packet active dry yeast 2 1/4 teaspoons
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup warm water 110°F
- 1 cup hot water 115-120°F
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 1/4 cups bread flour divided
- 1 large egg mixed with a little water for optional egg wash
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1/2 teaspoon sugar in 1/4 cup warm water at 110°F. Let stand for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup hot water, 2 teaspoons sugar, salt, and olive oil.
- Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the bread flour along with the activated yeast mixture. Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft, sticky dough forms.
- Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently shape it into a log or batard (oval) form. Transfer onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover the shaped dough with a clean towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Optionally, brush the top of the dough with a light egg white and water wash for a glossy finish.
- Using a sharp knife, make several diagonal slashes across the top of the dough.
- Place the dough in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a rack before slicing.
- Allow the bread to cool completely to ensure the best texture before cutting.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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