Name: Italian Puff Bread – A Light, Flaky Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose or bread flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 3/4 cup warm water; 1 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp sugar; 1 tsp dried rosemary (or thyme, oregano); Sea salt, for sprinkling

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If you’ve never had Italian Puff Bread before, you’re in for a treat! This airy, golden-brown bread is crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and infused with the flavors of olive oil, herbs, and just a touch of salt. It’s the perfect side for soups, pastas, or just enjoying on its own with a little butter or dipping oil.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Light and airy texture – Flaky and crispy with a soft, pillowy center.
Simple ingredients, big flavor – Made with pantry staples like flour, olive oil, and herbs.
Versatile – Great for pairing with meals or enjoying as a snack.
Easier than it looks – A little patience with the dough, and you’ll have bakery-style bread at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need, but the full list is in the recipe card below:

Flour – All-purpose or bread flour for the best structure.
Olive oil – Adds richness and helps with crispness.
Yeast – For that classic rise and airy texture.
Warm water – Activates the yeast.
Salt and sugar – Balances the flavors.
Herbs – Rosemary, thyme, or oregano for extra aroma.

Step-by-Step Directions

Activate the Yeast

Combine warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar in a bowl. Let it sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes.

Make the Dough

Mix the flour, salt, and olive oil in a large bowl. Gradually add the yeast mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms.

Let It Rise

Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size. This usually takes about an hour.

Shape and Rest

Roll or stretch the dough into a rectangle or circle, depending on preference. Let it rest for another 15-20 minutes.

Bake to Perfection

Bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden and puffy, about 15-20 minutes. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt before serving.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use high-quality olive oil – It makes a difference in flavor.
Let the dough rise fully – This gives the best puff and texture.
Preheat the oven well – A hot oven ensures crisp edges and a soft center.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Add cheese – Sprinkle parmesan or mozzarella before baking for a cheesy twist.
Make it garlic-infused – Brush with garlic butter right after baking.
Use different herbs – Swap rosemary for basil or thyme for a unique flavor.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Pair with a bowl of minestrone soup, serve alongside a classic pasta dish, or enjoy with a drizzle of balsamic and olive oil for dipping.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight before baking.

What’s the best way to get a crispy crust?

A hot oven and a preheated baking sheet help achieve that perfect texture.

Can I freeze Italian Puff Bread?

Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to a month. Reheat in the oven before serving.

How do I make it extra soft inside?

Use a little more olive oil and avoid overbaking to keep the interior tender.

Conclusion

Italian Puff Bread is simple, flavorful, and a must-try if you love homemade bread with a little crunch and a lot of character. Serve it fresh out of the oven, and you’ll have a new favorite to enjoy with just about any meal!

Italian Puff Bread – A Light, Flaky Delight

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This Italian Puff Bread is light, flaky, and irresistibly crisp on the outside while remaining tender inside. Infused with olive oil and fragrant herbs, it’s the perfect side for soups, pastas, or simply enjoying on its own with butter or dipping oil.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes (plus rising time)
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

2 1/2 cups all-purpose or bread flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm water
1 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp sugar
1 tsp dried rosemary (or thyme, oregano)
Sea salt, for sprinkling

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Instructions

Activate the Yeast – In a bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Make the Dough – In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and olive oil. Gradually add the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth.
Let It Rise – Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Shape the Dough – Roll or stretch the dough into a rectangle or circle. Let it rest for another 15-20 minutes.
Bake – Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place dough on a baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and sprinkle with sea salt. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and puffy.
Serve – Let cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.