Italian Bread Baked on a Pizza Stone

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Italian Bread Baked on a Pizza Stone.

1. Step 1

   To start your delicious homemade bread, grab your bread machine and add the flour, brown sugar, warm water, salt, olive oil, and yeast in the order suggested by the manufacturer.

2. Step 2

   Once everything is in, select the dough cycle and let the machine work its magic.

3. Step 3

   While the dough is mixing, place a pizza stone in your oven and preheat it to 375°F (190°C).

4. Step 4

   It’s important to let the stone heat up for at least 30 minutes; this will help create that perfect crust we all love.

5. Step 5

   When the dough cycle is finished, gently deflate the dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface.

6. Step 6

   Divide the dough into two equal pieces and shape each one into a loaf.

7. Step 7

   Now, place the loaves seam-side down on a cutting board that you’ve generously sprinkled with cornmeal.

8. Step 8

   Cover them with a damp cloth and let them rise until they’ve doubled in size, which should take about 40 minutes.

9. Step 9

   While you wait, whisk together an egg and a tablespoon of water in a small bowl until well combined.

10. Step 10

    Once the loaves have risen beautifully, brush them with the egg mixture for a lovely golden finish.

11. Step 11

    Using a sharp knife, make a single long cut down the center of each loaf.

12. Step 12

    Give the cutting board a gentle shake to ensure the loaves aren’t sticking; if they are, a spatula can help loosen them.

13. Step 13

    Now comes the exciting part! Carefully slide the loaves onto the hot pizza stone in one swift motion.

14. Step 14

    Bake them in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until they sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

15. Step 15

    The aroma of freshly baked bread will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist! Enjoy the fruits of your labor with family and friends.