20 Easy Italian Bread Recipe For Bread Machine Elevate Your Taste Buds!

Ingredients

Bread Flour

The key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your Italian bread is to use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour. Bread flour has a higher protein content which creates a stronger gluten structure, resulting in a chewier and more elastic dough.

Yeast

Yeast is a crucial ingredient in bread making as it helps the dough rise and gives the bread its light and airy texture. For this recipe, we recommend using active dry yeast, which needs to be activated in warm water before adding it to the other ingredients.

Olive Oil

Adding olive oil to your bread dough not only enhances the flavor but also helps keep the bread moist. It also creates a beautiful golden crust on the outside of the bread.

Water

Water is the main liquid used in this recipe and is essential for activating the yeast and hydrating the flour. Make sure the water is warm, but not too hot, as it can kill the yeast.

Salt

Salt not only adds flavor to the bread but also helps control the rise of the dough. Too little salt can result in an overly-risen and airy bread, while too much salt can hinder the yeast's growth.

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup of warm water with 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast is activated and becomes foamy.

Step 2: Add the Ingredients to the Bread Machine

In the bread machine pan, add 3 cups of bread flour, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, and the activated yeast mixture from step 1. Make sure to add the ingredients in the order listed.

Step 3: Select the Dough Setting

Select the dough setting on your bread machine and let it run for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This will mix and knead the dough, as well as allow it to rise.

Step 4: Shape and Bake the Bread

Once the dough cycle is complete, remove the dough from the machine and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until it is golden brown.

Final Thoughts

Making homemade Italian bread has never been easier with the help of a bread machine. This easy recipe will have you enjoying fresh, crusty bread without any of the hassle. Serve it warm with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a true Italian experience. So go ahead, give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your homemade Italian bread.