Name: Crusty Italian Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 650 grams of bread flour (approximately 5 1/4 cups); 1 3/4 cups of warm water (between 100-110 degrees); 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast; 1 tablespoon of butter, room temperature; 2 teaspoons of salt; 1 egg white; 1 tablespoon of chilled water; 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Crusty Italian bread is a delight to the senses. Its crunchy crust and soft, chewy interior make it perfect for sandwiches, dipping in soup, or enjoying with olive oil. This homemade bread is not only delicious but also rewarding to make. The process allows you to connect with your food, and the aroma of baking bread fills your home with warmth and comfort. Plus, with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, this recipe is both accessible and satisfying.

How to Make Crusty Italian Bread

Making crusty Italian bread is straightforward. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a fresh loaf ready to enjoy.

Ingredients

650 grams of bread flour (approximately 5 1/4 cups)
1 3/4 cups of water, warm (between 100-110 degrees)
1 tablespoon of granulated sugar
1 tablespoon of active dry yeast
1 tablespoon of butter, room temperature
2 teaspoons of salt
1 egg white
1 tablespoon of water, chilled
1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil

Directions

In a small bowl, whisk 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast into 1 3/4 cups of warm water (110 degrees). Let it sit for about 5 minutes or until it becomes frothy.
In a large bowl, whisk about 4 cups of the bread flour with 2 teaspoons of salt.
Once the yeast is bloomed and foamy, whisk in 1 tablespoon of very soft butter and pour this mixture into the flour mixture.
Use a spatula to stir until a soft dough begins to form.
Generously flour your counter or cutting board with some of the remaining flour. Transfer the soft dough onto this floured surface and sprinkle a little more flour over the top of the dough.
Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, adding more flour only if it’s really sticky.
Once the dough feels smooth and is tacky but no longer sticky, form it into a ball and place it in a large bowl greased with olive oil. Flip the dough over a couple of times so it is lightly coated in oil.
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm place for 30-40 minutes.
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a large rectangle and then into a long cylinder. Pinch the seams together and tuck the ends of the dough under neatly.
Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil. Transfer the two loaves seam side down onto the prepared sheet and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let the loaves rest for 20 minutes in a warm place.
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees. Once the loaves are puffy, use a sharp knife to slice 4 marks across the top of each loaf.
Bake the loaves in the oven for 20 minutes.
Whisk together 1 egg white and 1 tablespoon of cold water. After 20 minutes of baking, quickly remove the loaves from the oven and brush them with the egg wash.
Return the loaves to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes.
Transfer the baking sheet to a heat-proof surface and allow the loaves to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Store any leftover loaves wrapped tightly in foil at room temperature.

How to Serve Crusty Italian Bread

Crusty Italian bread is versatile. You can serve it warm, with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping, or use it to make a classic sandwich. It pairs well with soups, stews, and salads. Toast slices for breakfast and top with butter or jams. The possibilities are endless!

How to Store Crusty Italian Bread

To keep crusty Italian bread fresh, wrap it tightly in foil and store it at room temperature. This will help maintain its crusty exterior. If you want to keep it for a longer time, you can freeze the bread. Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to eat, thaw it at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore its crustiness.

Tips to Make Crusty Italian Bread

Make sure your water is the right temperature—too hot can kill the yeast, and too cold can slow down the rising process.
Kneading is important for developing gluten, which gives bread its structure and chewiness.
Allowing the dough to rise in a warm place helps it develop flavor and texture.
Use a baking stone or preheated baking sheet to give the bread a better crust.

Variation

For a twist on this classic recipe, try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for added flavor. You can also mix in olives or sun-dried tomatoes before rolling into cylinders.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute part of the bread flour with whole wheat flour. Just be aware it may change the texture and flavor slightly.
Why did my bread not rise?
If your bread did not rise, the yeast may have been expired or the water temperature may have been too hot or too cold.
How can I tell if the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when you tap the bottom. You can also use a thermometer; it should read about 190-200 degrees Fahrenheit.