Description
Experience the joy of baking with this easy Italian bread recipe that yields a crusty loaf, perfect for any meal or occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1.5 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1.5 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Stir in olive oil and salt into the yeast mixture. Gradually add flour until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough, shape it into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and let rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like rosemary or garlic into the dough.
- Substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (40g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg