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A loaf of fresh Italian bread with a slice cut, showing the airy texture and golden crust.

Fresh Italian Bread

A simple recipe for homemade Italian bread.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 1 loaf
Course: Bread
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water about 105-115F
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil plus more for greasing

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Large bowl

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Lightly grease the large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat your oven to 400F (200C). Place a baking sheet in the oven while it preheats.
  6. Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Carefully place the loaf onto the preheated baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200-210F (93-99C).
  8. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

You can add herbs or garlic powder to the dough for extra flavor.