Homemade Italian Bread

Indulge in the rustic charm of Homemade Italian Bread, a timeless recipe that brings the authentic flavors of Italy straight to your kitchen. Crafted with simple pantry staples like all-purpose flour, olive oil, and active dry yeast, this bread boasts a soft, airy interior and a perfectly golden crust brushed with a glossy egg wash. The slow rise ensures maximum flavor and irresistibly tender texture, while the iconic diagonal slashes on top add a bakery-worthy touch. Whether served warm with olive oil and herbs, paired with hearty soups, or used to elevate sandwiches, this Italian bread is a versatile favorite. Easy to make and impressively delicious, it’s your go-to recipe for fresh-from-the-oven goodness that your family will love.

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 4 cups All-purpose flour
• 1.5 cups Warm water (between 110°F-115°F)
• 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast
• 2 teaspoons Granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons Salt
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 large Egg white
• 1 tablespoon Water (for egg wash)

Directions

Step 1

In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center, then pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.

Step 3

Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 4

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add a little extra flour if the dough is too sticky.

Step 5

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.

Step 6

Punch the dough down to release the air and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape the dough into a long loaf or divide it into two smaller loaves.

Step 7

Place the shaped loaf (or loaves) onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with a towel and let rise for an additional 30 minutes.

Step 8

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 9

Whisk together the egg white and 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush the top of the loaf with the egg wash for a golden, shiny finish.

Step 10

Using a sharp knife, make 3-4 diagonal slashes about 1/4 inch deep across the top of the loaf.

Step 11

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 12

Cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy fresh or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	943.5 grams (943.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2070

Total Fat 33.00g	42%
Saturated Fat 5.10g	26%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4787mg	208%
Total Carbohydrate 378.20g	138%
Dietary Fiber 14.50g	52%
Total Sugars 9.70g
Protein 55.80g	112%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 70mg	5%
Iron 23mg	127%
Potassium 711mg	15%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 14.6%

Protein: 11.0%

Carbs: 74.4%