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Crusty Italian Bread

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A classic crusty Italian bread recipe that delivers a crispy golden crust and a soft, airy interior. Perfect with pasta, soups, or as a base for bruschetta, this easy homemade loaf is ready in under two hours and makes two long loaves.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 650 grams (5 1/4 cups) bread flour
  • 1 3/4 cups warm water (100–110°F)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon softened butter
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 egg white
  • 1 tablespoon cold water
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk sugar and yeast into warm water. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk 4 cups of bread flour with salt.
  3. Whisk softened butter into the foamy yeast. Add to the flour mixture.
  4. Mix until a soft dough forms. Transfer to floured surface.
  5. Knead for 5–7 minutes until dough is soft, tacky but not sticky.
  6. Form dough into a ball, place in an oiled bowl, flip to coat. Cover and proof for 30–40 minutes.
  7. Punch down and divide dough in half. Roll each into a rectangle, then roll into logs. Pinch seams and tuck ends.
  8. Place loaves seam-side down on greased baking sheet. Cover and rest 20 minutes. Preheat oven to 425°F.
  9. Score tops with 3–4 diagonal slashes. Bake for 20 minutes.
  10. Remove, brush tops with whisked egg white and water. Return to oven for 5–7 more minutes.
  11. Cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

  • Use bread flour for the best texture and rise.
  • Let the dough rest properly for optimal flavor and texture.
  • Steam in the oven helps create a better crust.
  • Resting the baked loaves ensures a soft, even interior.
  • Store wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipeeasily.com/crusty-italian-bread-recipe/