King Arthur Flour Italian Bread Recipe: A Timeless Classic
Guide or Summary：IngredientsInstructionsThe aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the air is undoubtedly one of life's greatest pleasures. For those……
Guide or Summary：
The aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the air is undoubtedly one of life's greatest pleasures. For those who appreciate the art of bread-making, the prospect of creating a loaf that rivals the best Italian bakeries can be both exhilarating and daunting. Thankfully, King Arthur Flour has come to the rescue with their tried-and-tested Italian bread recipe. This guide will walk you through the process of making a delicious, crusty loaf that is sure to impress, using King Arthur Flour's premium ingredients.
Ingredients
To start, gather your ingredients. King Arthur Flour's Italian bread recipe calls for:
- 2 1/2 to 3 cups bread flour (King Arthur Flour, of course!)
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (King Arthur's High-Cascara Yeast is recommended)
- 1 cup warm water (110-115°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large egg (at room temperature)
Instructions
1. **Activate the Yeast**: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This confirms that the yeast is active and ready to use.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Stir well to ensure an even distribution of the salt.
3. **Combine Wet Ingredients**: Add the activated yeast mixture, olive oil, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
4. **Knead the Dough**: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a small amount of bread flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.
5. **First Rise**: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
6. **Punch Down and Shape**: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and shape it into a long, oval loaf. Place it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. **Second Rise**: Cover the loaf with a damp towel and let it rise again for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until it has risen by about 50%.
8. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
9. **Score and Bake**: Using a sharp knife, make a few diagonal slashes across the top of the loaf. This not only adds visual appeal but also helps the bread expand evenly during baking. Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. **Cool**: Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This allows the bread to set and ensures a better crust.
With King Arthur Flour's Italian bread recipe, you can create a loaf that is both delicious and impressive. By using high-quality ingredients and following the step-by-step instructions, you'll be able to achieve a crusty, flavorful bread that is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed warm with a pat of butter. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy baking!