This Italian Bread recipe is perfect for those who love a crispy crust with a soft, airy inside. Using a bread machine makes the process effortless, letting you enjoy fresh, homemade bread with minimal effort. It’s perfect for sandwiches, dipping in soups, or simply enjoying with butter!
📋 Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C) 💧
- 2 tablespoons olive oil 🛢️
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 🍬
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 🧂
- 3 cups bread flour 🌾
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast 🌿
- 1 tablespoon cornmeal (for dusting) 🌽
- 1 egg white (optional, for brushing) 🥚
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for brushing) 💧
📝 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- Add ingredients to the bread machine:
- In the bread machine pan, add the ingredients in the following order: warm water, olive oil, sugar, and salt. Then add the bread flour, creating a small well in the center of the flour to pour in the yeast.
- Select the dough cycle:
- Place the pan in the bread machine and select the “Dough” cycle. This typically takes around 90 minutes, during which the machine will mix, knead, and allow the dough to rise.
2. Shape the Dough:
- Prepare for shaping:
- Once the dough cycle is complete, remove the dough from the bread machine. Place it on a lightly floured surface and punch it down gently to remove air bubbles.
- Shape the dough:
- Shape the dough into a loaf or an oval. Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet dusted with cornmeal to prevent sticking and to give the bread a rustic crust.
- Second rise:
- Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until it doubles in size.
3. Bake the Bread:
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Optional: Egg wash:
- In a small bowl, mix the egg white with 1 tablespoon of water. Brush this mixture over the top of the dough to give it a shiny, golden crust.
- Score the dough:
- Using a sharp knife, make 3-4 diagonal slashes across the top of the dough.
- Bake:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
4. Cool and Serve:
- Cool the bread:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
🍽️ Tips:
- Herbed version: Add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like rosemary or oregano to the flour for a flavorful twist.
- Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices and toast them when needed.
⏱️ Preparation Time: 10 minutes (active)
⏱️ Dough Cycle Time: 90 minutes
⏱️ Baking Time: 20-25 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 1 loaf (about 10 slices)
🔥 Calories: Approximately 150-180 kcal per slice
This Italian Bread made in a bread machine is simple yet satisfying, with a crisp crust and soft crumb that will have you reaching for another slice. Perfect for any meal, from pasta night to a hearty sandwich! 🍞🇮🇹🌿