Getting your hands on a freshly baked loaf of ciabatta bread can be a game-changer. Whether you’re looking to elevate a simple sandwich or create a show-stopping appetizer, this Italian staple has got you covered. With its airy holes and slightly crispy crust, ciabatta is the perfect canvas for a wide range of flavors and toppings.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious ciabatta bread recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. From classic combinations like garlic and herb to more adventurous options like spicy jalapeño and rosemary and parmesan, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get baking, and discover the endless possibilities of this beloved bread!
Classic Homemade Ciabatta Bread
This classic Italian bread recipe yields a deliciously rustic and airy ciabatta with a crispy crust, perfect for sandwiches, salads, or just snacking. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying fresh-from-the-oven ciabatta in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 1/2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Gently shape the dough into a long, thin log, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic and Herb Ciabatta Loaf
Elevate your sandwiches and snacks with this aromatic and flavorful bread recipe, infused with the pungency of garlic and the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a side to your favorite soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the bowl; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add flour to the bowl, kneading the dough until smooth and elastic (about 10 minutes).
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the dough into a loaf, place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ciabatta Bread with Olive Oil and Sea Salt
Enjoy a classic Italian-style bread with the simplicity of this recipe. This crusty ciabatta is perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining 2 1/2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it develops a slightly sticky texture.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
7. Punch down the dough, shape into a rectangular loaf, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Ciabatta Breadsticks
Elevate your snack game with these gooey, cheesy ciabatta breadsticks that are perfect for parties or movie nights. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying the savory goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, cut into 12-15 equal pieces
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
3. Place breadstick pieces on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the breadsticks, then sprinkle the cheesy mixture evenly among them.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Rosemary and Parmesan Ciabatta
This Italian-inspired bread is infused with the piney flavor of rosemary and the nutty taste of Parmesan cheese, perfect for a quick snack or as a accompaniment to your favorite soups or salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flours, yeast, and salt.
3. Add olive oil, rosemary, and Parmesan cheese; mix until shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place on prepared baking sheet, shape into a log, and cover with plastic wrap.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ciabatta Bread with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Transform your mealtime with this flavorful Italian classic: ciabatta infused with sweet and savory sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect as a side or used to make sandwiches, this recipe yields a deliciously chewy loaf.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3/4 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, yeast, and salt. Gradually add olive oil, lukewarm water, and mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Punch down dough, shape into oblong loaf, and place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle chopped sun-dried tomatoes over the top of the bread. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Wheat Ciabatta Bread
This classic Italian bread recipe is elevated with the nutty flavor of whole wheat flour, making it perfect for sandwiching your favorite fillings or serving alongside soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a long, thin loaf.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ciabatta Sandwich Bread with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful and moist Ciabatta bread infused with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– Roasted vegetables of your choice (e.g., zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, cherry tomatoes)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour; mix until shaggy dough forms.
4. Gradually add remaining 2 cups of flour, mixing until smooth and elastic.
5. Fold in Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Place dough on a floured surface and shape into a long, thin rectangle.
7. Roast your chosen vegetables in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
8. Assemble sandwiches by spreading roasted vegetables onto slices of Ciabatta bread.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Ciabatta Focaccia with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make, flavorful Ciabatta Focaccia infused with sweet caramelized onions. Perfect for a quick bite or as a side to soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– Fresh rosemary leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour; mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining flour, kneading until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down dough; shape into a round or oblong Ciabatta Focaccia.
6. Drizzle with olive oil; sprinkle caramelized onions and chopped rosemary (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Note: Caramelize onions by cooking 1 large onion in 2 tablespoons of olive oil over low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dark golden brown.
Ciabatta Bread with Kalamata Olives
Transform your meals with this flavorful Italian-inspired bread, infused with the savory goodness of Kalamata olives. This easy-to-make ciabatta recipe is perfect for sandwich-making or served as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Kalamata olives
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining flour, one cup at a time, until dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then place in a lightly oiled bowl, covered with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a oblong loaf. Sprinkle Kalamata olives on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Ciabatta Loaf
Spicy Jalapeño Ciabatta Loaf: A flavorful bread infused with the spicy kick of jalapeños and the softness of ciabatta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired level of spiciness)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add olive oil, cilantro, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf.
6. Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ciabatta Bread with Fresh Basil and Mozzarella
This classic Italian-inspired bread is elevated by the sweetness of fresh basil and the creaminess of mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick snack or as a side to your favorite pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, and yeast. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and chopped basil. Mix until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough, shape into a log, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ciabatta Bread with Walnuts and Raisins
This sweet and savory ciabatta bread recipe combines the nutty flavor of walnuts with the natural sweetness of raisins, perfect for a delicious snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and fold in chopped walnuts and raisins.
6. Shape into a round or oblong loaf and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ciabatta Bread with Cranberries and Orange Zest
This sweet and savory bread combines the flavors of fresh cranberries and orange zest, perfectly balanced by the crispy crust and soft interior of ciabatta. A perfect treat for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and sugar to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and fold in chopped cranberries and orange zest.
7. Shape into a round loaf, place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ciabatta Bread with Garlic Butter Crust
Elevate your bread game with this simple recipe that combines the classic Italian ciabatta with the richness of garlic butter. The result is a crusty, cheesy loaf that’s perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, kneading the dough for 10-12 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a long loaf.
6. Mix minced garlic and softened butter. Spread evenly over the top of the bread.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ciabatta Bread with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your mealtime with this simple yet impressive bread and glaze combination, perfect for serving alongside soups, salads, or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for glaze)
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes to activate.
2. Add olive oil, flour, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a long loaf. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including rising time)
Ciabatta Bread with Pesto Swirl
This Italian-inspired bread combines the classic flavors of ciabatta with a creamy pesto swirl, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side to your favorite soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup pesto
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add olive oil, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a log.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Spread pesto evenly over one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
7. Fold the other half over the pesto, pressing edges to seal.
8. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ciabatta Bread with Asiago Cheese
This recipe combines the classic Italian bread, ciabatta, with the rich flavor of Asiago cheese for a delicious twist. Perfect as a side or used to make sandwiches, this cheesy ciabatta is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Asiago cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it’s developed a sticky surface.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf.
7. Sprinkle Asiago cheese on top of the loaf and brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ciabatta Bread with Roasted Garlic and Thyme
Elevate your bread game with this flavorful ciabatta recipe infused with the richness of roasted garlic and the earthiness of thyme. Perfect for serving alongside soups, stews, or as a base for sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup warm water
– 3 cloves roasted garlic, minced (see note)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, yeast, sugar, and salt.
3. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Add roasted garlic, olive oil, and mix until smooth.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then shape into a round loaf.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: Roast 3-4 whole garlic heads at 400°F (200°C) for 45 minutes, or until soft and mashed. Let cool before mincing.
Ciabatta Bread with Honey and Oats
This sweet twist on traditional ciabatta bread combines the nutty flavor of oats with the richness of honey, creating a delicious breakfast or snack option. With its soft crumb and crispy crust, this bread is perfect for toasting or serving alongside your favorite spreads.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, and yeast.
2. Add honey, salt, and olive oil; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add warm water, kneading the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your bread game with these 20 delicious ciabatta bread recipes! From classic homemade ciabatta to garlic and herb, cheesy breadsticks, and sun-dried tomato variations, there’s something for every occasion. Try adding rosemary and parmesan for a savory twist or cranberries and orange zest for a sweet surprise. For a flavorful crust, try adding garlic butter or balsamic glaze. Whether you’re making sandwiches, serving as a side, or snacking on the go, these ciabatta recipes are sure to please.
