Description
Learn to make authentic Italian ciabatta bread at home with a crispy crust and a soft, airy interior. This recipe is straightforward, perfect for novice bakers, and versatile for sandwiches or as a side.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (or high-protein bread flour)
- 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1.5 cups warm water (around 110°F or 43°C)
- 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine flour and yeast. Gradually add warm water, stirring to form a shaggy dough.
- Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 2 hours, or until doubled.
- Gently punch down the dough, divide in half, and shape into rectangular loaves.
- Place shaped loaves on parchment-lined baking sheets, cover loosely, and let rise for another hour.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Drizzle loaves with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Notes
- Using high-protein flour will yield a chewier texture.
- Ensure your yeast is fresh for proper rising.
- Allow sufficient time for both rising stages for the best texture.
- Avoid over-kneading to prevent tough bread.
- Experiment with adding herbs, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes for variations.
- Store cooled ciabatta in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 1.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
Keywords: Ciabatta Bread, homemade ciabatta, crispy ciabatta, airy ciabatta, Italian bread, artisan bread, bread recipe, baking bread