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Master the Art of Rustic Italian Bread with This Easy Recipe - Featured Image

Master the Art of Rustic Italian Bread with This Easy Recipe

Learn how to make delicious Rustic Italian Bread Recipe. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for a richer crust)

If you’re short on all-purpose flour, you can swap up to 1 cup with bread flour for a chewier texture. Whole wheat flour can also be used, but I recommend replacing only half the flour to keep the crumb light. And if you don’t have olive oil, a neutral oil or even melted butter works fine; this step is optional but adds a nice touch.

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the yeast and sugar over the warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it’s foamy and bubbly. This little step always feels like magic to me—the yeast waking up and getting ready to do its job.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil if using.
  3. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, stir until the dough begins to come together. It will be sticky and shaggy—that’s exactly what you want.
  4. Lightly flour a clean countertop and turn the dough out onto it. Knead gently for about 8-10 minutes, adding a dusting of flour as needed so it doesn’t stick. The dough should become smooth and elastic but still slightly tacky to the touch.
  5. Place the dough in a large, lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size. If you’re like me, this is a great time to clean up the flour dust or check on the kids!
  6. Once risen, punch the dough down gently to release the air. Shape it into a round loaf by folding the edges into the center, then flipping it seam side down onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Cover the loaf again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  8. Preheat your oven to 450°F. Right before baking, use a sharp knife to slash the top of the loaf once or twice—this helps the bread expand and gives it that signature rustic look.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the crust is deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. I learned this “tap test” trick from my dad, who always insisted on it to know when the bread was just right.
  10. Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. It’s tempting to cut in right away, but I promise the crumb sets better if you wait!

  • Author: Jenny
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: International

Keywords: Rustic Italian Bread Recipe, recipe, cooking, food