Simple Italian Bread Recipe

If you’re anything like me, there’s something incredibly satisfying about baking your own bread at home. This Simple Italian Bread Recipe is one of my go-to classics because it’s straightforward, uses familiar ingredients, and delivers that perfect crusty outside with a soft, airy inside. Whether you’re new to baking bread or want a reliable recipe that always works, this one checks all the boxes.

What I love most about this Simple Italian Bread Recipe is how versatile it is—you can enjoy it fresh with olive oil, dress it up for a bruschetta, or pair it with your favorite soups. It’s great for weekends when you have a little extra time to nurture that dough and the reward is totally worth it. Plus, once you get the hang of it, it quickly becomes a weekend ritual that’s both relaxing and delicious!

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients here come together beautifully to create that iconic Italian bread texture and flavor. The key, honestly, is using good quality flour and fresh yeast because they make the biggest difference in the rise and crumb.

• All-purpose flour (or bread flour): I usually use bread flour for a slightly chewier texture, but all-purpose works just as well for a softer crumb.
• Warm water: Around 110°F is perfect to activate the yeast—too hot and you risk killing the yeast; too cold and it won’t activate properly.
• Active dry yeast: Fresh yeast is always best, but active dry yeast works perfectly and is super easy to find.
• Salt: Don’t skip this—it not only adds flavor but also controls yeast activity, helping your bread develop the perfect crust.
• Sugar: Helps feed the yeast and encourages that lovely golden color on your crust.
• Olive oil: This brings just a hint of richness and keeps the bread moist.
• Egg: Used for brushing the loaf before baking to get that irresistible shiny, crispy crust.
• Seasoning of your choice: I adore garlic salt and Italian herbs sprinkled on top but feel free to get creative.

Variations

One of the joys of making my Simple Italian Bread Recipe is how much you can tailor it to your tastes or dietary needs. Adding your own twist keeps it exciting and personal!

• Herb-infused bread: Sometimes I fold fresh rosemary or basil into the dough for extra aroma. It transforms the loaf beautifully.
• Gluten-free option: I’ve experimented with gluten-free blends but recommend following a specific gluten-free bread recipe since this dough relies on gluten development.
• Whole wheat twist: Swapping half the flour for whole wheat adds a nutty depth but expect a denser crumb.
• Easy garlic bread: After baking, I brush warm slices with garlic butter and broil them quickly—total game changer for dinner sides.

How to Make Simple Italian Bread Recipe

Step 1: Activate Your Yeast

Start by mixing warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Give it a gentle stir, then patiently wait 5-10 minutes until it’s foamy. This foam means your yeast is alive and kicking—if it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old or water temperature off, so start over to avoid flat bread.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, toss your flour and salt in a large mixing bowl or stand mixer. If you’re using a mixer, start on the slowest setting to avoid flour popping everywhere. This step ensures your salt is evenly distributed without killing the yeast.

Step 3: Make the Dough

Slowly add your yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour while mixing. Mix until a rough dough forms, which usually takes about 10 minutes in a stand mixer or a bit longer kneading by hand. The dough should be smooth and stretchy—if it’s sticky, add a bit more flour slowly, but don’t overdo it to keep it soft inside.

Step 4: First Rise

Shape the dough into a ball and pop it into a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size. This is where you’ll see the magic happening—don’t rush it or drafty spots could slow the rise.

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

Punch down the dough gently to release air bubbles and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Fold and roll it into a loaf shape—this is where you can get creative with shapes like braids or rounds if you feel adventurous. Place it on a baking sheet, cover loosely, and let it rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy.

Step 6: Prep for Baking

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Meanwhile, whisk your egg and brush it over the top of the loaf to get that beautiful shiny and crispy crust. Make diagonal slashes across the top with a sharp knife—this helps the bread expand evenly. Sprinkle on your favorite seasoning; I love a sprinkle of garlic salt and Italian herbs for that classic flavor punch.

Step 7: Bake Till Golden

Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes until the crust is deep golden and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing—trust me, patience here is key to avoid a gummy texture.

How to Serve Simple Italian Bread Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple with extra virgin olive oil and flaky sea salt sprinkled on top when serving, sometimes with a dash of fresh herbs like basil or oregano. A little drizzle of balsamic glaze makes it feel extra special, too.

Side Dishes

This bread shines alongside tomato soup, minestrone, or even a creamy mushroom ragù. It’s also great for sandwiches or served with antipasto platters featuring olives, cheeses, and cured meats.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I slice the bread into bite-sized pieces and serve with a trio of dipping oils: classic olive oil with chili flakes, herb-infused oil, and balsamic vinegar reduction. It always gets compliments and turns bread into a real crowd-pleaser.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

When I have leftover bread, I store it in a paper bag inside a bread box or loosely wrapped in a tea towel to keep the crust crispy while preventing it from drying out overnight.

Freezing

I slice the loaf before freezing so I can grab individual pieces as needed. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place them in a freezer bag. This method keeps the bread tasting fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To revive frozen or leftover bread, I toast slices directly or wrap the loaf in foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. It brings back that just-baked crust and soft crumb almost like fresh.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Simple Italian Bread Recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and it always brings a little rustic Italian charm to any meal. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—there’s something incredibly rewarding about pulling a fresh loaf from your own oven. So, grab your ingredients, turn on some music, and let’s bake some bread that tastes like a warm hug from Italy itself!

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