Simple Italian Bread Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 egg (for brushing)
• 2 tsp seasoning of your choice (e.g., garlic salt, Italian seasoning)

Instructions

1. 1

   Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is activated and ready.

2. 2

   Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine flour and salt. If using a mixer, use the slowest stir setting to combine ingredients evenly.

3. 3

   Add Wet Ingredients and Knead Dough: Slowly add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour. Mix with a dough hook or knead by hand until a rough dough forms, about 10 minutes in a stand mixer or slightly longer by hand, until the dough is smooth and stretchy.

4. 4

   First Rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.

5. 5

   Shape the Loaf: Punch down the risen dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Fold and roll the dough into a loaf shape and place it on a baking sheet.

6. 6

   Second Rise: Cover the loaf loosely with a towel and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy.

7. 7

   Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 400°F to prepare for baking.

8. 8

   Prepare Loaf for Baking: Whisk the egg and make diagonal slashes across the top of the loaf with a sharp knife. Brush the egg wash over the top for a crispy, shiny crust and sprinkle with your chosen seasoning.

9. 9

   Bake the loaf for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow, indicating it is fully baked.

10. 10

    Cool: Let the bread cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing to complete the cooking process and enhance flavor and texture.