The Best Italian Bread Recipes to Try Right Now

Italian bread is a beloved staple that has a rich history and endless variations. From rustic loaves to soft rolls, there’s a recipe to satisfy every palate. Here are some of the best Italian bread recipes to try right now.

1. Classic Italian Ciabatta

Ciabatta is known for its crispy crust and airy interior, making it a favorite for sandwiches or simply enjoyed with olive oil. To make ciabatta, you’ll need:

  • 500g all-purpose flour
  • 400ml water
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp instant yeast

Mix the ingredients, let the dough rise for several hours, shape it, and allow it to proof before baking at 220°C (428°F) until golden brown.

2. Focaccia

This deliciously soft bread is often topped with herbs and olive oil, making it a versatile side for many Italian dishes. For focaccia, you will need:

  • 500g bread flour
  • 300ml water
  • 10g sea salt
  • 2 tsp yeast
  • Fresh rosemary and olive oil for topping

Combine the ingredients, allow to rise, then stretch and dimple the dough. Add rosemary and drizzle with olive oil before baking at 200°C (392°F) for about 20 minutes.

3. Pane Toscano

Pane Toscano is a traditional Tuscan bread that is naturally leavened and salt-free. This simple recipe requires:

  • 500g bread flour
  • 400ml water
  • 1/4 tsp yeast

Mix the ingredients to form a sticky dough, let it ferment overnight, shape, and bake at 230°C (446°F) for approximately 30 minutes until you achieve a crisp crust.

4. Italian Breadsticks (Grissini)

These crispy, versatile breadsticks are great for snacking or as a side with your favorite antipasto. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 250g all-purpose flour
  • 150ml water
  • 30ml olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp yeast

Combine all the ingredients, knead, roll out into thin sticks, and bake at 190°C (374°F) for about 15 minutes until golden and crunchy.

5. Sliced Italian Panettone

While traditionally served at Christmas, panettone can be enjoyed year-round. This sweet bread requires:

  • 500g strong flour
  • 300ml water
  • 100g sugar
  • 100g butter
  • 3 eggs
  • Dried fruits and candied orange zest

Create a starter with some flour, water, and yeast the night before, then combine ingredients, adding fruits before the second rise. Bake at 180°C (356°F) for around 40 minutes.

6. Pugilese Bread (Pane Pugliese)

This rustic bread from Puglia is characterized by its round shape and chewy texture. To make this bread, you will need:

  • 500g flour (a mix of bread and whole wheat)
  • 350ml warm water
  • 1 tsp yeast
  • 10g salt

Mix the ingredients, let it rise for several hours, shape, and bake at 220°C (428°F) until it sounds hollow when tapped.

7. Sicilia's Sfincione

This Sicilian style pizza bread is thick and topped with tomatoes, onions, and cheese, perfect for a hearty dish. Ingredients you'll need include:

  • 500g flour
  • 300ml water
  • 10g salt
  • 1 tsp yeast
  • Toppings: crushed tomatoes, onions, breadcrumbs, and