updated on Bread

Fluffy Italian Bread

Italian bread is a type of bread that is known for its hearty texture and crusty exterior. This bread can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from the long and slender loaves of ciabatta to the round and dense loaves of focaccia. This versatile bread is a staple in Italian cuisine and can be used for everything from sandwiches to dipping into olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

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Fluffy Italian Bread

  • Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Print Recipe

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 2 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 Tbsp white granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 Tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Mix the yeast with warm water and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer.
  2. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy, then mix in salt and oil.
  3. Using the dough hook attachment, set the mixer to low speed and add the flour 1 cup at a time.
  4. Once the dough has pulled away from the sides of the bowl and is no longer sticky, let the stand mixer to kneed the dough for 7 minutes.
  5. Place the dough in a slightly greased bowl and cover. Allow it to rise for 1 hour at room temperature, or until double in size.
  6. On a floured surface, roll the dough out into a rectangle, the roll it up tightly to make a log. Tuck the ends in underneath.
  7. Place the dough on parchment paper and cover with plastic wrap. Allow it to rest for 1 hour at room temperature, until double in size.
  8. Score the bread with a sharp knife.
  9. Preheat the oven to 375°
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

To give the bread a shine, brush melted butter on top, or brush egg wash over it and bake for an additional 2 minutes.

To make a loaf of cheesy garlic bread, roll up the dough with butter, minced garlic, mozzarella cheese, and herbs inside.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Rise Time: 2 hours
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

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Italian bread is a beloved part of Italian cuisine and is enjoyed all around the world. Its crispy crust and chewy interior make it a perfect companion to a variety of dishes. The history of Italian bread can be traced back to ancient Rome, where bread was an essential part of the Roman diet.

Italian bread is also commonly used in the popular dish, bruschetta. Bruschetta is a traditional Italian appetizer that consists of toasted bread that is topped with a mixture of fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil. This dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Italian bread is a versatile food that can be used in a variety of ways. It can be toasted for bruschetta or served alongside a hearty bowl of soup or pasta. It is also a great option for making sandwiches, whether you prefer a classic Italian sub or a simple grilled cheese.

In conclusion, Italian bread is a staple of Italian cuisine and is enjoyed by people all around the world. Its crusty exterior and chewy texture make it a perfect companion to a variety of dishes, and its versatility makes it a go-to option for many meals. Italian bread is a beloved food that is sure to delight anyone who tries it.

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