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Homemade ciabatta bread

Rustic Homemade Ciabatta Bread Loaf

Bake your own authentic, crusty ciabatta bread at home with this easy recipe. This Italian classic is perfect for sandwiches, dipping in olive oil, or enjoying on its own.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (500g) bread flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 3/4 cups (420ml) lukewarm water
  • 1 teaspoon (4g) active dry yeast
  • 2 teaspoons (12g) salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in lukewarm water. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Gently deflate the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough in half.
  6. Shape each half into a rectangular loaf, about 10-12 inches long.
  7. Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Dust generously with flour.
  8. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  9. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
  10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200-210°F (93-99°C).
  11. Let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Notes

Serve warm with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping, or use for making delicious sandwiches.