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Say goodbye to rushed, uninspired mornings with this homemade Soft & Crusty Italian Bread Loaf for Bread Machine. It transforms simple morning staples like bread flour, lukewarm water and bread machine or active dry yeast into an appetizing, golden breakfast that brings everyone to the kitchen table in 3 hr 15 min.
Ingredients
12 servings
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1
Add Wet Then Dry Ingredients to Bread Pan (5 Min)
Add lukewarm water and olive oil to bread pan. Add bread flour, sugar, salt, and Italian herbs. Make a small well in center of flour and add yeast.
2
Select Basic / White Bread Cycle (1 Min)
Place pan in bread machine. Select **Basic or White Bread cycle (about 3 hours)** and **Medium Crust** setting. Press Start.
3
Cool on Wire Rack (10 Min)
When cycle completes, remove bread pan and invert loaf onto wire rack. Cool 25 minutes before slicing for dipping in garlic herb olive oil!
Chef Amara’s Kitchen Secrets & Pro Tips
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil Softens Crumb: Olive oil gives Italian bread a softer, richer crumb than French bread.
- Room Temp Ingredients: Using lukewarm water (around 80°F) ensures proper yeast blooming in automatic machines.
1. Spoon and Level Your Flour: Never scoop flour directly from the canister with your measuring cup, which packs excess volume by up to 25%. Fluff the flour with a fork, spoon it into the cup, and level the top with a knife. 2. Season in Measured Layers: Introduce small pinches of salt at different cooking stages rather than dumping seasoning on at the end. This draws out moisture and seasons every ingredient to its core. 3. Chef's Kitchen Secret: Extra Virgin Olive Oil Softens Crumb: Olive oil gives Italian bread a softer, richer crumb than French bread.
Chef’s Cooking Guide & FAQs
Troubleshooting & Quick Fixes
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Troubleshooting & Quick Fixes
- What if the Sauce for Soft & Crusty Italian Bread Loaf for Bread Machine Separates or Feels Greasy?: If a dairy or emulsion sauce breaks, immediately take the pan off direct heat. Vigorously whisk in a tablespoon of hot water, broth, or cream until the velvety sheen re-emulsifies.
- How to Rescue a Dish That Tastes Overly Salty?: Dilute with additional unsalted liquid (broth, cream, or water), or splash in a small touch of acid like fresh lemon juice or vinegar to soften sharp salinity.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Guidelines
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Storage, Freezing & Reheating Guidelines
Store leftovers in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a preheated 350°F oven or covered skillet over medium-low heat until steaming hot throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, this dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance, kept covered in the refrigerator, and baked or cooked when ready to serve.
Q: Can I substitute common pantry ingredients? A: Yes, this recipe is forgiving. Check our substitution notes in the ingredient card for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan alternatives.
Home Cook Community
Kitchen Notes & Discussion
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