Italian Sandwich Bread Recipe

Introduction

Italian Sandwich Bread is a soft, flavorful loaf perfect for your favorite sandwiches. With its crisp crust and tender crumb, it’s a fantastic homemade alternative to store-bought bread.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1½ cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Activate the yeast by combining warm water and yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil; stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Step 3: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Step 4: Place the kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Step 5: Punch down the risen dough, shape it into loaves or rolls, and place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
6. Step 6: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Allow shaped dough to rise again for 30 minutes before baking for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of dried Italian herbs to the flour mixture.
• Use bread flour instead of all-purpose for a chewier texture.
• Brush the top of the dough with olive oil before the second rise for a shinier crust.

Storage

Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread sliced in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in a toaster or oven to restore freshness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. Simply mix it directly into the dry ingredients without proofing, and reduce the rising time slightly.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The bread is done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also check with a thermometer; the internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C).

Italian Sandwich Bread Recipe

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4.7 from 62 reviews

This Italian Sandwich Bread recipe yields a soft, flavorful bread perfect for sandwiches or serving alongside your favorite Italian dishes. Made with simple ingredients like all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, olive oil, and salt, this bread involves a traditional yeast activation and rising process, resulting in a golden, crusty exterior and tender, chewy crumb inside.

• Author: Ruby
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 1 large loaf or 2 smaller loaves (about 8–10 sandwich servings) 1x
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

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For the Dough

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1½ cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active and ready to use.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt ensuring they are evenly combined.
3. Form the Dough: Pour the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour mixture. Stir with a spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms that starts to come together.
4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Knead it for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, which helps develop the gluten for a good texture.
5. First Rise: Lightly oil a large bowl and place the kneaded dough inside. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Shape the Bread: Punch down the risen dough gently to release air. Shape it into one or more loaves or rolls and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets lined for easy release.
7. Second Rise: Allow the shaped dough to rise again for 30 minutes at room temperature so it becomes puffy and airy before baking.
8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25 to 30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and using for sandwiches or serving.

Notes

• Ensure the water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
• For a crispier crust, place a pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam.
• You can substitute bread flour for all-purpose flour for a chewier texture.
• The dough can be made in advance and refrigerated overnight for deeper flavor.
• Store leftover bread in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Keywords: Italian bread, sandwich bread, yeast bread, homemade bread, baking bread