Scali Bread Recipe: Easy Homemade Italian Bread Guide

Scali bread is a classic Italian-American loaf that has captured the hearts of bread lovers everywhere. Known for its soft, slightly sweet crumb and a signature crust topped with sesame seeds, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, toasts, or simply enjoyed fresh from the oven.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this Scali bread recipe will guide you through making an authentic loaf that rivals your favorite bakery’s. The process involves simple ingredients but results in a crusty exterior and a tender, airy interior that’s utterly irresistible.

Baking Scali bread at home not only fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of freshly baked bread but also gives you the satisfaction of creating something truly special. From family dinners to casual lunches, this bread is versatile and delicious.

Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try for all bread enthusiasts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Scali bread recipe stands out for its balance of crispy crust and soft, fluffy inside. The use of active dry yeast and a bit of sugar helps develop a slight sweetness, while the sesame seed topping adds a nutty crunch that perfectly complements the loaf.

It’s an excellent bread for all occasions – whether you’re making a hearty sandwich, serving alongside a fresh salad, or just enjoying with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Additionally, this recipe is straightforward, uses staple pantry ingredients, and includes detailed steps to help you succeed. Plus, you can customize it with different toppings or shapes, making it as creative as you want.

If you enjoy making breads like this, you might also love exploring other delicious recipes such as Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas to pair with your homemade bread.

Ingredients

• 4 cups bread flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for greasing
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or dough hook attachment for a stand mixer
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Baking sheet or stone
• Pastry brush
• Sharp knife or bread lame for scoring

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy and bubbly. This confirms the yeast is active and ready.
2. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Using a wooden spoon or your dough hook attachment, mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook on medium speed for about 6-7 minutes. Add more flour if the dough feels too sticky, but be careful not to add too much.
4. First rise: Lightly grease a clean bowl with olive oil. Place the dough inside, turning to coat all sides. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the loaf: Punch down the dough to release air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and shape into a long oval loaf, approximately 12 inches long. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
6. Second rise: Cover the shaped dough loosely with a towel and let it rise for another 45 minutes until puffy.
7. Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Using a sharp knife or bread lame, make several diagonal slashes across the top of the loaf. Brush the surface lightly with olive oil, then generously sprinkle with sesame seeds.
8. Bake: Place the bread in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Cool: Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This helps the crumb set properly and prevents the bread from becoming gummy.

Tips & Variations

For an extra crispy crust, place a small pan of water at the bottom of your oven while baking to create steam.

You can experiment with toppings such as poppy seeds, coarse salt, or even a mix of sesame and flax seeds for added texture and flavor. If you want a slightly softer crust, brush the bread with melted butter right after baking.

Try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a savory twist. For a whole wheat version, substitute half the bread flour with whole wheat flour, noting that the bread may be denser.

Scali bread freezes well. Slice and store in a sealed bag, then toast slices directly from frozen for a quick snack or sandwich base.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Scali bread is incredibly versatile. It makes a perfect base for deli-style sandwiches with your favorite meats, cheeses, and fresh veggies.

Try it with classic Italian cold cuts like salami and provolone or keep it simple with a smear of fresh ricotta and honey for a sweet treat.

It also pairs wonderfully with soups and stews. Enjoy it alongside a warm bowl of Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food or a fresh salad such as the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

For breakfast, toast slices and top with smashed avocado, a sprinkle of chili flakes, and a drizzle of olive oil. The slight sweetness and crunch from the sesame seeds elevate any simple topping to something special.

Conclusion

Making Scali bread at home is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of fresh-baked goodness. Its tender crumb, crisp crust, and nutty sesame seed topping make it a crowd-pleaser perfect for any meal or snack.

With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, this recipe welcomes bakers of all skill levels to enjoy a classic Italian-American staple right from their own oven.

Whether you’re serving it up at a family dinner, using it for sandwiches, or simply enjoying a warm slice with butter, Scali bread adds a special touch to your table. Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on our site such as the Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals for wholesome, tasty meals that complement your fresh bread perfectly.

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