Description
Muffuletta bread is a traditional Sicilian-style round loaf with a golden crust and a soft, yet sturdy interior. Topped with sesame seeds, it boasts a rich, nutty aroma and a slightly chewy texture, making it perfect for hearty sandwiches like the famous New Orleans muffuletta sandwich.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough:
- 4 cups (500g) bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Mix until the dough starts to come together. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. (If using a stand mixer, knead with a dough hook for about 5 minutes on medium speed.)
Step 3: First Rise
- Lightly grease a bowl with olive oil and place the dough inside. Cover with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf.
- Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet and press down slightly to flatten the top.
Step 5: Second Rise
- Cover and let the dough rise for another 30-40 minutes while preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 6: Bake the Bread
- Brush the surface with olive oil and sprinkle sesame seeds evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Step 7: Cooling and Serving
- Transfer to a wire rack and let cool before slicing. Enjoy as a sandwich base or with dips and spreads!
Notes
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and storing in a freezer bag.
- Prep Time: PT1H30M
- Cook Time: PT30M
- Category: Bread, Baking
- Method: Oven
- Cuisine: Italian, New Orleans
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of loaf
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Muffuletta bread recipe, Sicilian bread, homemade bread, sesame bread, Italian sandwich bread, New Orleans cuisine, bakery-style bread, easy bread recipe, yeast bread, olive oil bread, artisan bread.