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1-Hour Italian Bread

Perfectly Crusty 1-Hour Italian Bread You'll Love to Bake

This 1-Hour Italian Bread delivers a crusty exterior with a soft, chewy center, making it perfect for any meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
First Rise Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Bread Dough
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour can swap for bread flour
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast ensure it's fresh for best results
  • 2 teaspoons salt use kosher or fine table salt
  • 1.5 cups warm water room temperature is best
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil melted butter can be used
Variation Ingredients
  • 1 cup chopped olives mix in for Mediterranean flavor
  • 1 cup shredded cheese mozzarella or parmesan recommended
  • 0.5 cup fresh herbs like rosemary or basil

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • wooden spoon
  • baking sheet
  • wire rack
  • Oven

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of instant yeast, and 2 teaspoons of salt. Gradually add 1 and 1/2 cups of warm water, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
  2. Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  3. Transfer the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and place it in a warm area for about 30 minutes.
  4. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release some air. Shape it into a loaf or divide into rolls.
  5. Cover the shaped dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for an additional 15 to 20 minutes.
  6. Preheat your oven to 400°F and place a shallow pan on the bottom rack.
  7. Carefully pour hot water into the shallow pan on the bottom rack to create steam.
  8. Slide the baking sheet with your dough into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Once baked, carefully remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely for at least 45 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 1gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gIron: 2mg

Notes

Customize your bread by adding olives, cheese, or herbs. Ensure to create steam for the crust and cool before slicing.

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