Crusty Italian Bread: A Perfectly Golden Loaf with a Tender Crust
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen, and this Crusty Italian Bread recipe delivers just that. With a golden, crunchy crust and soft, tender interior, it’s perfect for serving alongside dinner, dipping in soup, or enjoying on its own. This simple recipe creates two loaves of delicious homemade bread that will impress even the toughest critics.
The Secret to a Perfect Crust
The secret to achieving that perfect crust lies in the steam created during the baking process. By placing a shallow pan of hot water in the oven, the moisture enhances the crust’s texture, giving it that desirable crunch without sacrificing the soft, fluffy center. This method, combined with a simple egg wash, ensures that your bread will have a beautiful golden color and a satisfying crackle with every bite.
- Preparation time: 15 minutes (plus rising time)
- Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
- Serving: 2 loaves
- Equipment: Mixing bowl, dough hook (optional), baking sheet, shallow pan
Recipe Title: Crusty Italian Bread
Ingredients:
- 1 1/3 cups warm water
- 2 1/4 teaspoons yeast
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil
- 4 cups flour
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Directions:
- Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and brown sugar. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for a few minutes until it begins to bubble and foam, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix the Dough: Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture, then gradually mix in the flour. If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and knead the dough for a few minutes. The dough should come away from the sides of the bowl and feel soft but not sticky.
- First Rise: Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 30 minutes.
- Shape the Loaves: Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Shape each half into a loaf and place them on a greased baking sheet. Cover with a damp cloth again and let them rise until doubled in size.
- Preheat the Oven: While the loaves are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F. Place a shallow pan on the lower rack of the oven and fill it with at least 1 cup of hot water. This steam will help create the perfect crust.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Once the loaves have risen, brush the tops of each with the egg wash. Using a sharp knife, make a quick, single slash down the center of each loaf.
- Bake the Bread: Place the loaves in the oven, directly above the shallow pan of water. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool the Loaves: Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. For extra flavor, rub butter over the hot crust while it cools.
Enjoy Fresh and Hot
This Crusty Italian Bread is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, with its crisp crust and soft interior making it irresistible. Whether you serve it alongside pasta, use it for sandwiches, or simply slather it with butter, this bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy baking!
