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Quick & Easy Crusty Italian Bread Recipe | Homemade Bakery-Style Loaf in No Time

There's nothing quite like a warm loaf of crusty Italian bread, fresh from the oven, with its golden exterior and soft, airy interior. Whether you’re pairing it with pasta, soups, or simply enjoying it with a drizzle of olive oil, this Quick & Easy Crusty Italian Bread recipe is a must-have in your home baking collection. Made with simple pantry ingredients and minimal hands-on time, this recipe is designed to give you a bakery-quality loaf with that signature chewy texture and crisp, rustic crust — all without complicated steps or long wait times. If you're looking for a beginner-friendly, foolproof way to make Italian bread from scratch, this is it.
Prep Time 15 minutes
bake & Rise time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 1 loaf

Ingredients
  

  • Here’s your simple ingredient list to make this crusty Italian bread at home:
Culinary Aids & Spices:
  • 1 packet active dry yeast about 2¼ teaspoons
  • cups all-purpose flour
  • teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
Oils & Vinegars:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
Liquids:
  • cups warm water around 110°F / 45°C

Equipment

  • You won’t need a bread machine or fancy equipment for this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or dough whisk
  • Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper (optional)
  • Sharp serrated knife (for scoring)
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast.
  2. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
  1. Add olive oil, salt, and flour to the bowl with the activated yeast.
  2. Stir with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms.
  3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. (You can also knead it right in the bowl if you prefer less mess.)
Step 3: First Rise
  1. Lightly oil the inside of a clean bowl.
  2. Place the dough inside and turn it once to coat with oil.
  3. Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Loaf
  1. After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release air bubbles.
  2. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf or an oval rustic shape.
  3. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 5: Second Rise & Preheat Oven
  1. Cover the shaped loaf loosely with a towel and let it rise again for 20-30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Step 6: Score and Bake
  1. Using a serrated knife, make a few shallow slashes across the top of the dough to allow for expansion.
  2. Optional: Lightly mist the loaf with water for a crispier crust.
  3. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 7: Cool Before Slicing
  1. Transfer the bread to a cooling rack and let it cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing to allow the crumb to set properly.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Room Temperature: Store in a paper bag or bread box for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Slice the loaf, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, and freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating Instructions:
Oven: Warm slices at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Toaster: Toast slices for a fresh, crispy edge.
Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes per slice.
🥄 Variations
Here are some simple ways to add a twist to your Italian bread:
Herb-Infused Loaf: Add 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs or rosemary into the dough.
Garlic Crust: Brush the loaf with a mixture of minced garlic and olive oil just before baking.
Cheesy Italian Bread: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top of the dough before baking for a cheesy crust.
Whole Wheat Version: Substitute 1 cup of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
Seeded Top: Sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top after brushing with water or olive oil.
Rustic Baguettes: Divide the dough into two portions and shape into smaller baguettes for mini loaves.
Stuffed Italian Bread: Fold in roasted vegetables like bell peppers and olives for a stuffed loaf variation.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes. If using instant yeast, you can mix it directly with the dry ingredients. No need to proof in water.
2. Can I knead the dough in a stand mixer?
Absolutely. Use the dough hook attachment and knead for about 5 minutes on medium speed.
3. Why is my dough not rising?
Ensure your yeast is fresh and the water temperature is around 110°F (45°C). Water that's too hot or cold can prevent activation.
4. How do I get an extra crispy crust?
Spray or brush the loaf with water before baking and add a shallow pan of water in the oven to create steam.
5. Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, bread flour will give a chewier texture with a slightly crispier crust.
6. Can I freeze the dough before baking?
You can freeze the shaped dough before the second rise. Thaw and let it rise fully before baking.
7. How do I get large air pockets in my bread?
Be gentle when shaping the dough after the first rise to retain some of the air bubbles.
8. Can I add other flavors to the dough?
Yes! You can fold in minced roasted garlic, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs.
9. How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The loaf should be golden brown, sound hollow when tapped on the bottom, and reach an internal temperature of 200°F (93°C).
10. What dishes pair best with Italian bread?
This bread pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes, soups, salads, or served with a dish of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
🏁 Conclusion
This Quick & Easy Crusty Italian Bread is a recipe every home baker should have in their repertoire. With a crisp golden crust, soft chewy interior, and a simple list of pantry ingredients, it’s a foolproof way to bring bakery-quality bread to your own kitchen.
Whether you're serving it alongside a hearty meal, crafting sandwiches, or simply enjoying it with a drizzle of olive oil, this bread is guaranteed to impress. Best of all, it’s quick enough for a weekday bake but delicious enough for special occasions.