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Gonnella Bread Recipe

Best Gonnella Bread Recipe

make Gonnella Bread at home, complete with its signature flavor and rustic charm. My detailed, step-by-step instructions and helpful hints will teach you how to bake this classic Italian bread from scratch.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 Servings
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp active dry yeast
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • Cornmeal for dusting

Instructions
 

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  • In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

  • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough for about 5 minutes on medium speed.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

  • Place the kneaded dough in a clean, lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

  • Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a round or oval loaf. You can also divide the dough into two smaller loaves if you prefer smaller-sized Gonnella Bread.

Step 6: Final Rise

  • Place the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet dusted with cornmeal. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it puffs up slightly.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

  • While the dough is undergoing its final rise, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and place a shallow pan on the bottom rack of the oven. This will create steam during baking and help to develop a crispy crust.

Step 8: Score the Dough

  • Using a sharp knife or a bread lame, score the top of the dough with a few diagonal slashes or a decorative pattern. This will not only add an aesthetic touch to your Gonnella Bread but also allow it to expand during baking.

Step 9: Bake the Bread

  • Place the risen dough in the preheated oven and carefully pour about 1 cup of hot water into the shallow pan on the bottom rack to create steam. This will help to create a crusty exterior on the bread. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

  • Once the Gonnella Bread is done baking, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Resist the temptation to cut into it while it's still hot, as it needs time to set and develop its full flavor.
Keyword Easy Gonnella Bread, Gonnella Bread, Gonnella Bread Recipe