Craving fresh homemade bread but short on time? This Italian bread dough recipe is the answer. It’s quick, simple, and ready in just 1 hour. Perfect for pizza bases, breadsticks, or rustic loaves, this versatile dough delivers soft, flavorful bread every time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe ensures great results without hours of waiting for the dough to rise.
Ingredients:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast:
In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active. - Mix the dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix with a spoon until it begins to form a dough. - Knead the dough:
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 4–5 minutes on medium speed. - First rise:
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes or until it doubles in size. - Shape and bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, punch it down and shape it into your desired form—loaves, rolls, or flatbreads. Place the shaped dough onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Allow it to rest for an additional 10 minutes. - Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. - Cool and serve:
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing or serving.
Calories (per serving):
Approximately 120 calories per serving (1 slice or 1 roll, depending on portion size).
Healthy or Unhealthy?
This recipe is generally healthy when consumed in moderation. It uses simple, wholesome ingredients like flour, olive oil, and yeast, without any preservatives or artificial additives. To make it even healthier, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
Enjoy the taste of fresh Italian bread straight from your oven in just one hour!