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Italian Bread

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Rest and Rise Time2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 20 Servings

Ingredients

  • 4 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast or 2 standard packages
  • 2 cups (454 mL) warm water warmed to 100-110°F
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup (50 mL) olive oil plus additional oil for the bowl
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 5-6 cups (600-720 g) bread flour
  • 1 egg white optional
  • 1 tablespoon cold water optional

Instructions

  • Place yeast, warm water, and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl, and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to rest for 5-10 minutes until tan and frothy. Bubbles should form on the surface of the mixture.
    4 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast, 2 cups (454 mL) warm water, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • Add the olive oil, salt, and 3 cups (360 grams) of bread flour. Mix on low speed using the dough hook, or fold by hand using a large spatula, until the flour is completely mixed in.
    ¼ cup (50 mL) olive oil, 1 tablespoon salt, 5-6 cups (600-720 g) bread flour
  • Add the remaining flour and mix until only a small amount of flour remains visible. If the dough is sticky add additional flour. It should be tacky, but not overly sticky. (When you press into it, only a speck should stick to your finger.)
  • If using an electric mixer, adjust to level 2 speed for 5 minutes. Alternatively, you can turn the dough onto a well-floured surface and knead by hand for 5 minutes.
  • Transfer the dough to a large bowl that has been rubbed with olive oil. Cover and allow to rest in a warm, dry place for 1 hour, or until the dough doubles in size.
  • Punch down the dough and divide into two balls. Roll each dough into a rectangle that is about 12 inches in length. Fold lengthwise in thirds to make one long and thin rectangle, about 3 inches in width. 
  • Turn the dough over onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Pinch the ends of the dough shaping it into points on each end similar to a torpedo shape. 
  • Using a sharp knife cut 4-5 slashes into the dough. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes or until noticeably puffy and doubled in size a second time.
  • Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  • In a small bowl, whisk the egg white with cold water. Use a pastry brush to gently brush the egg wash over the bread dough. 
    1 egg white, 1 tablespoon cold water
  • Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and cool completely before slicing. See post for storage options.

Notes

*The calories listed are an approximation based on the ingredients in the recipe card and a serving size of 1 slice of bread. Actual calories will vary.
 
*This recipe makes 2 loaves.
 
*For more information, tips, and answers to frequently asked questions, please refer to the post.
 
*Photos courtesy of Gierhart Photography.
Nutrition Facts
Italian Bread
Serving Size
 
1 slice
Amount per Serving
Calories
90
% Daily Value*
Sodium
 
201
mg
9
%
Carbohydrates
 
19
g
6
%
Fiber
 
1
g
4
%
Protein
 
3
g
6
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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