Crusty Italian Bread (Perfect Crust) Recipe

Introduction

Crusty Italian bread is a classic favorite known for its golden, crackling crust and soft, airy interior. This simple recipe uses just a few ingredients to create an authentic loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches or dipping in olive oil.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 2 teaspoons salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add the warm water while stirring to form a sticky dough.
2. Step 2: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Step 3: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1½ hours until doubled in size.
4. Step 4: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a baking stone or tray inside to heat.
5. Step 5: Shape the dough into a round loaf and transfer it to a piece of parchment paper.
6. Step 6: Slash the top of the loaf with a sharp knife to allow steam to escape during baking.
7. Step 7: Slide the bread (with parchment) onto the hot baking stone or tray and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the crust is golden and crisp.
8. Step 8: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra crisp crust, place a shallow pan of water in the oven during baking to create steam.
• Substitute half the all-purpose flour with bread flour for a chewier texture.
• Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the dough for a richer flavor.
• Try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist.

Storage

Store your crusty Italian bread at room temperature wrapped loosely in a paper bag or kitchen towel for up to two days. To refresh the crust, sprinkle the loaf lightly with water and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread in a breathable bag, then toast slices directly from the freezer.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast using the same amount. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients without proofing in water.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The bread is done when it has a deep golden crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of 190-200°F (88-93°C) with a kitchen thermometer also indicates it is fully baked.

Crusty Italian Bread (Perfect Crust) Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 62 reviews

This Crusty Italian Bread recipe yields a perfectly golden and crunchy crust with a soft, airy interior. Using simple ingredients like flour, yeast, water, and salt, this traditional bread is ideal for sandwiches, dipping in olive oil, or alongside your favorite Italian dishes.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf (about 12 servings) 1x
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

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Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 2 teaspoons salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. Add the flour and salt gradually and mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
2. Let rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for approximately 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
3. Shape and second rise: Punch down the dough to release air, then shape it into a round or oval loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover it loosely and let it rise for another 30 to 45 minutes until puffed up.
4. Bake until golden and crusty: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). For a perfect crust, place a shallow pan of water on the bottom of the oven to create steam. Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife, then bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the crust is deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

• For a chewier crust, use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Adding steam during baking helps develop a crisp crust.
• If you don’t have active dry yeast, instant yeast can be used with slight adjustments to the liquid.
• Make sure water is warm, not hot, to activate yeast properly without killing it.
• Letting the bread cool completely before cutting preserves the texture and crumb.

Keywords: Crusty Italian bread, homemade bread, baking, yeast bread, crusty loaf