Classic Ciabatta Bread

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Classic Ciabatta Bread.

1. Step 1

   To start your delicious bread-making journey, let’s prepare the sponge.

2. Step 2

   In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast, giving it a gentle stir.

3. Step 3

   Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it transforms into a creamy delight.

4. Step 4

   Meanwhile, in a larger bowl, mix together bread flour and more warm water.

5. Step 5

   Once combined, stir in your yeast mixture and mix everything for around 4 minutes.

6. Step 6

   Cover this bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 12 hours, or up to a full day.

7. Step 7

   This long rest is what gives your bread that wonderful flavor and texture.

8. Step 8

   When you’re ready to make the bread, take another small bowl and mix warm milk with a bit more yeast.

9. Step 9

   Allow it to sit for 5 minutes until it becomes creamy again.

10. Step 10

    Now, transfer this milk-yeast mixture to a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.

11. Step 11

    Add in the sponge you prepared earlier, along with more bread flour, warm water, and a splash of oil.

12. Step 12

    Mix everything until the flour is just moistened, then sprinkle in some salt and knead the dough for about 8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.

13. Step 13

    You’ll love the feel of the dough as it comes together! Next, scrape your dough into an oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise at room temperature until it doubles in size.

14. Step 14

    This should take about 1.

15. Step 15

    5 hours.

16. Step 16

    You’ll notice the dough is sticky and filled with air bubbles, which is a good sign of its growth.

17. Step 17

    Once your dough has risen beautifully, turn it out onto a well-floured surface and divide it in half.

18. Step 18

    Shape each half into an irregular oval, roughly 9 inches long, and place them on parchment paper.

19. Step 19

    Use your floured fingers to dimple the tops of the loaves and give them a light dusting of flour.

20. Step 20

    Now, cover the loaves with a damp kitchen towel and let them rise at room temperature until they’re nearly doubled in size, which should take about 1.

21. Step 21

    5 to 2 hours.

22. Step 22

    This is the perfect time to preheat your oven! At least 45 minutes before baking, place a baking stone on the lowest rack of your oven and preheat it to 425°F (220°C).

23. Step 23

    When the loaves are ready, carefully transfer one loaf on its parchment to a rimless baking sheet, aligning the far edge with the baking stone.

24. Step 24

    With a gentle slide, place the loaf onto the stone.

25. Step 25

    Repeat this process with the second loaf.

26. Step 26

    Bake your bread until it turns a lovely golden brown, which should take about 20 minutes.

27. Step 27

    Once baked, let the loaves cool on a wire rack, filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread.

28. Step 28

    Enjoy the fruits of your labor and the joy of sharing this homemade goodness with family and friends!.