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Italian Bread

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Warm, homemade Italian bread with a crisp crust and soft interior, perfect for pairing with meals or enjoying on its own.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2 large loaves

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast (or 2 packets)
  • 1/2 cup warm water (about 110°F)
  • 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 2 cups hot water (about 115–120°F)
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or olive oil)
  • 56 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg white (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Dissolve yeast, 1/2 cup warm water, and 1/2 teaspoon sugar in a small bowl and let sit until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, mix 2 cups hot water, 3 tablespoons sugar, salt, and oil.
  3. Add 3 cups of flour and mix well.
  4. Stir in the yeast mixture.
  5. Add the remaining flour gradually until the dough is smooth but slightly sticky.
  6. Cover and let the dough rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  7. Divide the dough into 2 loaves, roll each piece out, and then roll up jelly-roll style.
  8. Place loaves on a greased baking sheet and make diagonal slashes on top.
  9. Cover and let rise for about 30 minutes.
  10. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  11. Brush tops with beaten egg white and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

  • Use olive oil for richer flavor.
  • Divide dough into smaller portions for rolls and adjust bake time.
  • Bread flour can be used for a chewier texture.
  • Flavor variations include garlic powder, rosemary, oregano, or thyme.
  • Brush with melted garlic butter after baking for added flavor.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/16 of recipe)
  • Calories: 160
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg