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Italian Puff Bread: 5 Simple Steps to Bake It Like a Pro

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  • Author: Lily Carter
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: Rise Time: 1 hour+25 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (4-6 servings) 1x
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Italian Puff Bread is light, airy, and perfectly crispy! With just a few simple ingredients, you can bake a golden, puffy loaf that’s great for dipping, serving with pasta, or enjoying on its own. No fancy equipment needed—just follow these easy steps!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • Yeast Activation:

    • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
    • 1 teaspoon honey (or sugar)
    • 1/2 cup warm water
  • Dough:

    • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for a chewier texture)
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • Additional warm water as needed
  • For Folding & Baking:

    • 1 teaspoon olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast

    • In a small bowl, mix yeast, honey (or sugar), and warm water.
    • Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy and bubbly.
  2. Make the Dough

    • In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
    • Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
    • If the dough is too dry, add 1 tablespoon warm water at a time until soft and elastic.
  3. Knead the Dough

    • Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
    • Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise for 1 hour (until doubled in size).
  4. Roll and Fold

    • Punch down the dough and roll into a 12×8-inch rectangle.
    • Drizzle lightly with olive oil and fold into thirds (like a letter).
    • Roll into a cylinder, cover with a damp cloth, and let rest for 10 minutes.
  1. Bake the Bread

    • Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).
    • Shape dough into a round or oval loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
    • Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
    • Tap the bottom—it should sound hollow when done.

Notes

  • High heat is key to achieving that signature puffiness.
  • Folding creates airy layers, so don’t skip that step!
  • For extra flavor, add garlic, herbs, or cheese before baking.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (⅙ of the loaf)
  • Calories: ~180 kcal
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: ~200mg (depends on added salt)
  • Fat: 3.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 1.5g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg