When it comes to bread, Italy is a culinary powerhouse. From crusty ciabatta to soft sandwich loaves, Italian breads are renowned for their flavor and texture. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply want to elevate your everyday meals with freshly baked goodness, Italian bread recipes have got you covered. In this article, we’ll take a journey through the world of Italian bread-making, highlighting 20 delicious recipes that cater to every taste and occasion.
From classic favorites like ciabatta and focaccia to more unique creations like sun-dried tomato and basil bread, these recipes showcase the versatility and richness of Italian baking. So grab your mixing bowls and get ready to knead your way to a world of culinary delight!
Classic Italian Ciabatta
This recipe yields a deliciously soft and airy ciabatta, perfect for sandwiches or as a side to your favorite Italian dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– Extra-virgin olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat.
5. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a long, thin log.
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each ciabatta.
8. Brush with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Focaccia with Rosemary
This classic Italian flatbread is infused with the aromatic flavor of rosemary, making it a perfect accompaniment to soups, salads, or as a side dish. With its soft and airy texture, you’ll want to make this focaccia again and again.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until 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, kneading the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangle.
6. Sprinkle chopped rosemary on top of the dough, pressing gently to adhere.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic and Herb Italian Bread
This flavorful bread combines the savory taste of garlic with the brightness of fresh herbs, perfect for accompanying your favorite soups or as a side dish. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this delicious loaf in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup warm water
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and yeast.
2. Add olive oil, warm water, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough 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.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Rustic Italian Pane Pugliese
This classic Italian bread recipe from Puglia region is a staple in many Italian households. With its crispy crust and soft interior, it’s perfect for sopping up olive oil or serving with your favorite pasta dishes.
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 becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it’s well developed.
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). Shape the dough into a round loaf and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Soft Italian Milk Bread
A classic Italian bread recipe that yields a soft, tender crumb and a delicate crust. This milk bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side dish.
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
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add the sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix 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 greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Olive Oil and Sea Salt Italian Bread
This classic Italian bread recipe is a staple for any bread lover. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a crusty, flavorful loaf in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is activated.
2. Add olive oil, sea salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, kneading the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes 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.
5. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Olive Oil and Sea Salt Italian Bread!
Whole Wheat Italian Bread
This recipe yields a deliciously crusty and soft whole wheat Italian bread with a nutty flavor, perfect for sandwiching your favorite fillings or serving alongside soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water (around 100°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add whole wheat flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a sticky 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 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 round or oblong loaf.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Italian Stuffed Bread
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet satisfying recipe for Cheesy Italian Stuffed Bread. This flavorful bread is filled to the brim with melted mozzarella, gooey ricotta, and savory Italian seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of Italian bread (about 12 inches long)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the Italian bread in half lengthwise.
3. In a bowl, combine mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, olive oil, garlic, and oregano. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bread half with the cheese mixture, spreading it evenly.
5. Place the stuffed bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Italian Bread
Elevate your bread game with this flavorful Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Italian Bread, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, 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. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased 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 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf.
6. Sprinkle sun-dried tomatoes and basil leaves on top of the loaf.
7. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Italian Semolina Bread
This classic Italian bread recipe uses semolina flour to create a crusty exterior and a tender interior, perfect for serving with your favorite soups or sauces.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina flour
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine semolina flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by adding it to the lukewarm water. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the olive oil and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rosemary and Garlic Focaccia
Create a delicious and aromatic Italian flatbread with the perfect blend of rosemary and garlic. This recipe yields a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful focaccia that’s perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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. 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 it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and roll out to a thickness of 1/4 inch.
6. Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Italian Easter Bread
Celebrate Easter with a traditional Italian sweet bread, rich in history and flavor. This recipe yields a tender, buttery loaf adorned with colorful eggs and ornaments, perfect for the holiday table.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
– Decorative eggs and ornaments for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
3. Add warm water, melted butter, beaten eggs, and orange zest. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough, shape into a loaf, and place in prepared pan.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Parmesan and Black Pepper Breadsticks
A savory twist on traditional breadsticks, these Parmesan and black pepper treats are perfect for a quick snack or as a side to your favorite soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups warm water
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast and warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough to desired thickness (about 1/8 inch).
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and black pepper evenly over the dough.
7. Cut into 1-inch wide strips.
8. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Soft Italian Sandwich Bread
This classic Italian bread recipe yields a soft, tender loaf with a subtle sweetness, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side to your favorite soups and salads. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying freshly baked bread in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring 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 greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough, shape into a round loaf, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet Italian Easter Bread with Anise
Celebrate Easter with a sweet and traditional Italian bread infused with the warm flavor of anise. This recipe yields a delicious, golden-hued loaf perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup anise seeds
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
3. Add anise seeds and warm water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
5. Place dough on a floured surface, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Punch down dough, shape into a round loaf, and brush with egg wash.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Italian Rustic Country Bread
Create a deliciously rustic Italian country bread with this simple recipe. Perfect for sandwiching your favorite fillings or serving alongside soups and stews, this crusty loaf is sure to become a family favorite.
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 5-10 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 5-10 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). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Italian Flatbread
Experience the flavors of Italy with this simple yet flavorful flatbread recipe, infused with fresh herbs and a touch of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Add olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the flour mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Divide the dough into 2 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into disks.
6. Place the flatbreads on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Italian Sourdough Bread
This recipe yields a crusty, flavorful loaf with a tangy sourdough flavor, perfect for sandwiches or serving with olive oil and herbs. With a natural starter and minimal ingredients, this bread is a true representation of traditional Italian baking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Mix the sourdough starter with 1/2 cup warm water in a large bowl until smooth.
2. Add the flour and mix until just combined, forming a shaggy dough.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let ferment at room temperature (70°F – 75°F) for 24 hours.
5. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
6. Shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tomato and Mozzarella Stuffed Bread
This classic Italian-inspired recipe combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes with the creaminess of mozzarella cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy bread package.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French baguette (or similar)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the baguette in half lengthwise.
3. In a bowl, mix together diced tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the tomato-mozzarella mixture and season with salt and pepper.
5. Stuff each bread half with the tomato-mozzarella mixture.
6. Place stuffed breads on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until bread is crispy and cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Italian Walnut Raisin Bread
This moist and flavorful bread combines the natural sweetness of raisins with the earthy taste of walnuts, all wrapped up in a soft Italian-style crumb. Perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 cup golden raisins
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, parsley, raisins, and walnuts to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth.
5. Place dough in greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake bread for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with these 20 delicious Italian bread recipes! From classic Ciabatta to rustic Pane Pugliese, and from herby Focaccia to cheesy Stuffed Bread, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a perfect accompaniment to your favorite pasta dishes or a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings, this collection has got it all. With a range of flavors and textures, these Italian bread recipes are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
