Italian bread – the cornerstone of any Italian meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting to explore the world of baking, there’s no denying the appeal of freshly baked bread. And what better way to start your day than with a warm, crusty loaf and a pat of butter? In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through Italy’s rich bread-making tradition, featuring 20 mouth-watering recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
From classic ciabatta to rustic pane pugliese, and from soft milk bread to crusty country loaf, these Italian bread recipes have something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or the perfect accompaniment to your favorite pasta dish, we’ve got you covered. So grab a mixing bowl, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate bread-making experience.
Classic Italian Ciabatta
Experience the authentic taste of Italy with this simple recipe for Classic Italian Ciabatta. This rustic bread is perfect for sopping up sauces or serving with your favorite soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the yeast is activated.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a long, thin ciabatta. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Focaccia with Rosemary
Savor the warm, aromatic flavors of Italy with this simple recipe for homemade focaccia, infused with the fragrant essence of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Punch down the dough and transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Dimple the dough with your fingers, then drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped rosemary.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic and Herb Italian Bread
This classic Italian bread recipe combines the pungency of garlic with the freshness of herbs, perfect for accompanying your favorite soups or salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt, to taste
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and salt. Mix well.
3. Gradually add flour to the mixture, kneading dough until smooth and elastic (about 10 minutes).
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rustic Pane Pugliese
A classic Italian bread recipe from the region of Puglia, this rustic pane is perfect for sopping up olive oil and sauces. With a simple dough and minimal yeast, it’s easy to make and always a crowd pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Soft Italian Milk Bread
This recipe yields a soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet Italian milk bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side to your favorite soups. With its tender crumb and golden crust, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Stir to dissolve yeast, then let sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt. Mix until just combined.
3. Add melted butter and beaten egg. Mix until smooth dough forms.
4. Knead dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until elastic and smooth.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down dough and shape into desired form.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: About 45 minutes from start to finish.
Olive Oil and Sea Salt Breadsticks
Olive Oil and Sea Salt Breadsticks Recipe
These crispy on the outside, soft on the inside breadsticks are a perfect accompaniment to your favorite soups or salads.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sea salt
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining 2 cups of flour, kneading the dough until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough on a floured surface, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long, thin rope. Place on prepared baking sheets.
7. Sprinkle sea salt and chopped parsley (if using) over the breadsticks.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Stuffed Italian Bread
Savor the flavors of Italy with this mouthwatering cheesy stuffed bread recipe, perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.1 oz) loaf Italian-style bread
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the bread in half lengthwise.
3. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella and ricotta cheese until well combined.
4. Spread the cheese mixture evenly onto one half of the bread, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the cheese and sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Place the other bread half on top to form a sandwich.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Authentic Italian Semolina Bread
A classic Italian staple, this semolina bread is a must-have for any pasta or pizza lover. With its coarse texture and nutty flavor, it’s perfect for sopping up sauces or serving alongside your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups semolina flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– Extra-virgin olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine semolina flour, all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water while stirring the mixture with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Brush with olive oil and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Italian Easter Bread
This traditional Italian Easter bread is a sweet and savory treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. With its golden crust, soft center, and sweet anise flavor, this bread is sure to be a hit at any Easter gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon anise extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
3. Add warm water and melted butter; mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth.
5. Place the dough in the prepared loaf pan and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tomato and Basil Focaccia
Get ready to savor the flavors of Italy with this classic Tomato and Basil Focaccia recipe! This easy-to-make flatbread is perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining flour, kneading the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Punch down the dough, shape into a rectangle, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Top with cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Crusty Italian Country Loaf
This classic Italian bread recipe yields a crusty, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches or serving with your favorite soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Soft Italian Sandwich Rolls
Enjoy a delicious twist on traditional sandwiches with these soft and fluffy Italian-style rolls.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until a smooth and elastic dough is formed.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and pliable.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into rolls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rosemary and Garlic Bread
A classic Italian-inspired bread infused with the savory flavors of rosemary and garlic, perfect for serving alongside your favorite soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add olive oil, rosemary, and garlic to the mixture. Mix well.
3. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Whole Wheat Italian Bread
Experience the rich flavor of Italy with this classic whole wheat bread recipe. Made with simple ingredients and a few effortless steps, you’ll be enjoying a delicious loaf in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup lukewarm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and yeast.
2. Add salt, olive oil, and lukewarm water to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Italian Walnut Raisin Bread
This sweet bread is infused with the warm flavors of Italy, featuring crunchy walnuts and plump raisins.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup golden raisins
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and parsley.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together raisins, walnuts, milk, egg, and olive oil.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients; mix until a sticky dough forms.
5. Knead for 10 minutes, then shape into a loaf.
6. Place in the prepared pan, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Parmesan and Black Pepper Bread
This classic Italian-inspired bread is perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Form the dough into a round or oblong shape and place it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and black pepper evenly over the top of the bread.
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Homemade Italian Baguette
Experience the authentic taste of Italy with this classic homemade baguette recipe. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a freshly baked, crispy-crusted loaf in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast is activated.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, kneading the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a baguette.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive Bread
A flavorful and aromatic bread that combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the savory essence of olives.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup pitted and sliced green olives
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
6. Punch down the dough, then shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with sun-dried tomatoes and olives.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Soft Italian Dinner Rolls
Soft Italian Dinner Rolls Recipe
These tender and flavorful dinner rolls are perfect for accompanying your favorite pasta dishes or as a side to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of warm water
– 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 4 cups of all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the yeast is activated.
2. Add the olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until a smooth and elastic dough is achieved.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and pliable.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into desired rolls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Herbed Italian Flatbread
A classic Italian flatbread infused with the bright flavors of fresh herbs and a touch of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley leaves
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and parsley to the dough; mix until well combined.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Divide the dough into 2 equal portions; shape each into a ball.
6. Roll out each ball of dough into thin circles (about 1/8 inch thick).
7. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake flatbreads for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors and aromas of Italy with these 20 delectable bread recipes. From classic Ciabatta to rustic Pane Pugliese, and from soft Italian Milk Bread to crusty Country Loaf, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Discover how to make garlic and herb-infused breads, cheese-stuffed delights, and sweet treats like Easter Bread. Learn the secrets of authentic Semolina Bread and Walnut Raisin Bread, and impress your friends with homemade Baguette and Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive Bread. These mouthwatering recipes are sure to transport your taste buds straight to Italy.
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