If you’re craving fresh, homemade Italian bread but don’t have hours to spend kneading and waiting for dough to rise, this no-knead Italian bread recipe is the perfect solution! With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a rustic, crusty loaf that’s ready in just 1 hour. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious — the perfect addition to any meal or a delightful snack on its own.
Ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
Cornmeal or flour for dusting
Instructions:
Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy. This ensures the yeast is activated and ready to rise.
Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the flour and add the olive oil. Stir the mixture with a spoon or spatula until it forms a sticky dough. There’s no need for kneading — just mix until everything is combined.
Let the Dough Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the Dough: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. On a lightly floured surface or parchment paper, shape the dough into a round or oval loaf, depending on your preference.
Prepare for Baking: Transfer the shaped dough to a baking sheet dusted with cornmeal or flour. Lightly drizzle olive oil over the top and make a few shallow slashes on the surface with a sharp knife to help the bread expand as it bakes.
Bake the Bread: Place the dough in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The crust should be crispy, and the inside soft and airy.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy it warm with a bit of butter, olive oil, or alongside your favorite Italian dishes.
Serving Suggestions:
This authentic Italian bread is versatile and can be served with a variety of meals. Enjoy it alongside pasta, soups, salads, or as a base for bruschetta. You can also use it to make sandwiches or serve it with your favorite dip like olive tapenade or hummus.
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Rising time: 30-60 minutes
Bake time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
FAQs:
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be slightly different. You may need to adjust the water slightly, as whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid.
What if I don’t have active dry yeast? You can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast. Simply add it directly to the dry ingredients without needing to activate it in warm water.
Can I make this bread ahead of time? This bread is best served fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container or wrapped in foil for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to bring back the crisp crust.
How can I make the bread even more flavorful? For extra flavor, you can add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic to the dough before baking. You could also sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking for a savory touch.
Can I freeze this bread? Yes, you can freeze the bread after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes.
Helpful Tips:
Use warm, not hot, water: When activating the yeast, make sure the water is warm but not hot. Water that’s too hot can kill the yeast, and water that’s too cold will prevent the yeast from activating properly.
Resting time is crucial: Even though this is a no-knead recipe, letting the dough rise properly is key to achieving a light, airy texture.
Baking temperature: To get the perfect crispy crust, ensure your oven is preheated to a high temperature before placing the bread inside.
Final Thoughts:
This no-knead, authentic Italian bread recipe is the ideal way to enjoy freshly baked bread without all the work. With just an hour of your time, you can make a loaf that’s as delicious as it is simple. The crusty exterior and soft, chewy interior will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or just enjoying a slice on its own, this bread will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!