Are you dreaming of that warm, crusty Italian bread, the kind that makes your kitchen smell heavenly and your family beg for seconds? Forget the store-bought loaves! This recipe shows you how to make authentic Italian bread easily using your KitchenAid mixer, resulting in a delicious, homemade loaf that's perfect for dipping in olive oil, serving alongside pasta, or simply enjoying on its own. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner bakers and those looking to elevate their homemade cooking game. Get ready to experience the joy of baking your own bread!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 ½ - 4 cups (420-480g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- Cornmeal or semolina flour, for dusting the baking sheet (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In the bowl of your KitchenAid mixer, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the olive oil to the yeast mixture. Give it a gentle stir to combine.
Step 3: Kneading with the KitchenAid Mixer
With the dough hook attachment, gradually add 2 cups of flour to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until a shaggy dough forms. Then, increase the speed to medium and knead for 5-7 minutes, adding the remaining flour, one cup at a time, until the dough is smooth and elastic. Don't be afraid to add a little extra flour if needed – the dough should be slightly sticky but not overly wet.
Step 4: First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)
Lightly oil a large bowl. Transfer the dough to the bowl, turning to coat it with oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shaping the Dough
Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf.
Step 6: Second Rise (Proofing)
Lightly flour a baking sheet and dust it with cornmeal or semolina flour (this helps prevent sticking and adds a nice texture to the crust). Place the shaped dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
Step 7: Baking
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until it's golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 8: Cooling and Serving
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the crust to crisp up and the inside to cool evenly.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Italian Bread:
- Water Temperature: Ensure your water is the correct temperature (105-115°F). Too hot will kill the yeast, too cold will prevent it from activating.
- Flour: The amount of flour you need might vary slightly depending on the humidity and type of flour. Always add flour gradually.
- Kneading: Proper kneading is crucial for developing gluten, which gives the bread its texture.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry loaf. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes.
Variations:
- Herb Bread: Add 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite dried herbs (rosemary, oregano, thyme) to the dough.
- Garlic Bread: Add a few cloves of minced garlic to the dough.
- Cheese Bread: Incorporate shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese into the dough.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Around 150-200 Protein: 5-7g Carbohydrates: 30-40g Fat: 2-4g
Enjoy your freshly baked Italian bread! This recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a great way to enjoy homemade cooking and impress your friends and family with delicious dishes. This is definitely one of the best recipes you'll ever try!