Save A festive, aromatic Italian bread with a golden crust and a soft, pillowy interior, topped with fragrant rosemary sprigs and sea salt perfect for holiday gatherings.
This bread quickly became a holiday staple in my home due to its delightful aroma and ease of preparation.
Ingredients
- Dough: 500 g (4 cups) bread flour, 350 ml (1½ cups) warm water (about 40°C/105°F), 10 g (2 tsp) fine sea salt, 7 g (2¼ tsp) instant dry yeast, 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Topping: 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh rosemary sprigs, 1½ tsp flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt.
- Step 2:
- In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Step 3:
- Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
- Step 4:
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Step 5:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Step 6:
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 7:
- Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Stretch and pat into a rectangle (about 30 x 20 cm).
- Step 8:
- Use your fingertips to dimple the surface deeply. Drizzle evenly with olive oil, and scatter rosemary sprigs and flaky sea salt on top.
- Step 9:
- Cover loosely and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Step 10:
- Bake for 22 25 minutes, or until deep golden brown and crisp on top.
- Step 11:
- Cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.
Save Baking this bread always brings the family together, filling our home with warmth and delicious smells.
Notes
For a festive touch, add halved cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced olives before baking. Best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated. Pairs beautifully with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping, or alongside cheeses and cured meats.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, Wooden spoon, Measuring cups and spoons, Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Kitchen towel
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten). May contain traces of sesame or nuts if processed in facilities handling these allergens. Check yeast and flour labels for cross contamination if sensitive.
Save This holiday bread is a delightful centerpiece for any festive meal and simple enough for bakers of all levels.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I achieve the soft interior and crisp crust?
Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, allow it to rise adequately, and bake at high temperature for a golden crispiness with a tender crumb.
- → Can I add other toppings besides rosemary?
Yes, consider halved cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced olives before baking for extra flavor and color.
- → What is the best way to serve this bread?
Serve warm, plain or with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, cheeses, or cured meats for complementary tastes.
- → How long should the dough rise before baking?
First rise for about 1 hour until doubled, then after shaping, a second rise of 30 minutes before baking.
- → Can this bread be reheated?
Yes, gently reheat to restore warmth and softness without drying out the bread.