A crusty, golden loaf with a soft, chewy interior—perfect for sandwiches, dipping in olive oil, or enjoying warm with butter. This simple bread recipe uses basic pantry ingredients and delivers bakery-quality results.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)

• 1 tbsp granulated sugar

• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (one packet)

• 1½ tsp salt

• 1 cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 large egg (for egg wash)

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a large mixing bowl, add:

   • 1 cup warm water

   • 1 tablespoon sugar

   • 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast

2. Stir gently to dissolve the yeast and sugar.

3. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly—this means the yeast is active.

Tip: If the mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired or the water was too hot.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. To the activated yeast mixture, add:

   • 3 cups all-purpose flour

   • 1½ teaspoons salt

   • 2 tablespoons olive oil

2. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough hook attachment until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

1. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.

2. Knead for 8 to 10 minutes, until the dough becomes:

   • Smooth

   • Elastic

   • Slightly tacky but not sticky

✋ Tip: If the dough sticks too much, sprinkle in a little more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.

Step 4: First Rise

1. Lightly grease a clean bowl with olive oil.

2. Place the kneaded dough into the bowl and turn to coat.

3. Cover with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap.

4. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Loaf

1. Punch down the risen dough to release air.

2. Shape into a smooth oval or round loaf.

3. Place on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Egg Wash & Scoring

1. Beat 1 egg in a small bowl.

2. Using a pastry brush, gently coat the surface of the loaf with the egg wash—this gives the crust a beautiful golden shine.

3. With a sharp knife or bread lame, make 2–3 shallow slashes on top of the loaf. This helps the bread expand in the oven.

Step 7: Bake the Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Bake the loaf for 20–25 minutes, or until:

   • The crust is deep golden brown

   • The loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom

   • Internal temperature reaches 190–200°F (88–93°C) (optional but ideal)

Step 8: Cool and Serve

1. Transfer the baked loaf to a wire rack.

2. Let it cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing to avoid a gummy texture.

Optional: Serve warm with butter, jam, olive oil, or as the base for sandwiches or crostini.