Description
Learn how to make authentic artisan-style ciabatta bread at home with this simple, budget-friendly recipe. With a crisp crust and airy, soft interior, this no-knead ciabatta is perfect for sandwiches, soups, or enjoying fresh from the oven. No special tools required — just basic ingredients and easy steps!
Ingredients
4 cups all-purpose flour (about 500 grams)
1½ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon instant yeast
1½ cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for greasing
Instructions
In a large bowl, stir together the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy. This shows the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.
Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms. There is no kneading required.
Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it sit in a warm place for 1½ to 2 hours, until it has doubled in size and looks bubbly.
Sprinkle plenty of flour on your work surface and hands. Carefully turn out the dough without deflating it too much. Sticky dough is what helps create the ciabatta’s airy texture.
Divide the dough into two pieces. Gently shape each into a rectangle or oval. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly dust with flour, cover with a towel, and let rest for 30 minutes while you preheat the oven.
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place an empty metal dish on the bottom rack. This will hold water to create steam and help form the crust.
Right before baking, pour a cup of water into the empty dish to create steam. Place the bread in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Transfer the loaves to a wire rack and let cool completely before slicing to keep the crumb airy and light.
Notes
This ciabatta recipe is designed for ease and flexibility. The dough may seem sticky at first, but that’s what creates the bread’s signature airy texture. Don’t try to make the loaves look perfect — ciabatta is meant to have a rustic, artisan appearance. Feel free to experiment by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or by sprinkling a little sea salt on top before baking for extra flavor.