By Dr. Leah Alexander | Published on July 31, 2023 | Last Updated on August 19, 2023
Johnny Carino’s Bread is a classic Italian-style bread that has been around for generations. With the right ingredients and some patience, you can create an authentic Johnny Carino’s Bread that will have your family and friends begging for more. This bread is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile.
This article will show you how to make this delicious bread at home in just a few simple steps. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make this classic Italian bread!
What is Johnny Carino’s Bread?
Johnny Carino’s Bread is an Italian-style bread that has been a staple in the kitchens of many families. The combination of 00 flour, honey, yeast, salt, butter, milk, water, eggs, and olive oil creates a soft and fluffy texture that is sure to please. Johnny Carino’s Bread also has a distinct shape and golden-brown crust that make it stand out from other types of bread.
This Bread can vary greatly depending on the region and family tradition but usually consists of the same basic ingredients. The dough is kneaded and allowed to rise until it is doubled in size before being shaped into a round loaf and baked in the oven.
Once out of the oven, Johnny Carino’s Bread has a slightly crunchy crust with an airy interior that will stay fresh for days if stored correctly. If you’re looking for a classic Italian-style bread to serve at your next meal, Johnny Carino’s Bread is definitely the way to go.
What does it taste like?
Johnny Carino’s Bread has a remarkable flavor and texture that is truly unique. The combination of honey, butter, and olive oil creates a slightly sweet aroma with notes of nuttiness from the 00 flour.
The crust is crispy and golden brown while the interior is soft and fluffy, making it perfect for tearing apart with your hands or slicing into pieces for sandwiches. The flavor is subtle yet satisfying and the texture is so smooth.
When served warm, Johnny Carino’s Bread has a tender crumb that melts in your mouth with a hint of sweetness from the honey and butter.
How did I first get introduced to Johnny Carino’s Bread?
My first introduction to Johnny Carino‘s Bread was at the restaurant of the same name. On a visit to an Italian restaurant nearby, my family and I decided to try something new. We had heard about this particular bread but weren’t sure what it tasted like.
When our waiter brought out the basket of fresh-baked Johnny Carino’s Bread, the heavenly aroma was enough to make us order it. The bread had a lightly golden-brown crust and a tender interior that melted in our mouths. We couldn’t believe how delicious it was!
From that day on, my family has been hooked on Johnny Carino’s Bread. We often go back to the restaurant just for this special treat. I’ve even taken a few baking classes to try and replicate the recipe at home.
It’s now become a staple in our house, and I’m sure it will be passed down through our family for generations. For me, Johnny Carino’s Bread is more than just a delicious treat – it reminds me of my favorite Italian restaurant and all the memories I have with my family.
How to make Johnny Carino’s Bread?
We can make classic Johnny Carino’s Bread at home. The process is fairly simple and only requires some patience. With the right ingredients, you can create an authentic Italian-style bread that will become a family favorite. Here’s what you need to get started:
You can also read the following breakfast recipes:
Ingredients
- 00 Flour: 00 Flour has a higher gluten content than other types of flour, giving the dough an excellent texture.
- Honey: Honey helps to sweeten and give flavor to the bread.
- Yeast: An essential ingredient for leavening the bread.
- Kosher Salt: Kosher salt adds flavor and keeps it from being too salty.
- Unsalted Butter: The butter adds moisture and flavor to the bread.
- Low-Fat Milk: Low-fat milk helps keep the bread moist and tender.
- Water: Water helps to mix all of the ingredients together.
- Eggs: Eggs provide structure, stability, and a richer flavor to the bread.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil helps to give the bread a golden crust.
- Melted Butter: Melted butter gives the bread a nice glossy finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Preparing the Dough
In a large bowl, mix together the 00 flour, yeast, and kosher salt. Then add in the honey and melted butter.
Mix together with a spoon or with your hands. Slowly add in the low-fat milk, water, eggs, and olive oil while mixing until you have a soft dough.
Step 2
Kneading the Dough
Once you have a soft dough, turn it out onto the counter and knead for about 10 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic.
If the dough is too sticky, add in a bit more 00 flour until it is manageable. If it’s too dry, add in some water.
Step 3
Letting the Dough Rise
Once the dough is kneaded, place it in a greased bowl and cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 4
Shaping the Dough
Once the dough has doubled in size, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place them on a greased baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel and let rise for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size again.
Step 5
Baking the Dough
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Once the dough has doubled in size again, brush it with a bit of melted butter and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool before serving.
Tips
- To make sure that your bread is light and fluffy, make sure to knead the dough for enough time.
- To get an extra crispy crust, brush the top of the bread with a bit of melted butter before baking.
- Letting your dough rise for a longer period of time will also help give it a better texture and flavor.
- You can use different types of flours such as whole wheat or rye for a different flavor.
- You can use coconut oil instead of olive oil for a slightly different flavor.
- You can add herbs and spices to the dough. Try adding rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an herb flavor. You can also add chopped nuts or dried fruit for a sweeter flavor!
- If you don’t have honey, you can substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Johnny Carino’s Bread Recipe
Equipment
- spoon
- mixing bowl
- towel
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 6 tbsp Pure Honey
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp Active Dry Yeast
- 1/2 Cup Water
- 3 Cups 00 Flour
- 1 Cup buttermilk or whole milk
- 2 large Eggs
- 2 tbsp Butter Melted
- 1 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the 00 flour, yeast, and kosher salt. Then add in the honey and melted butter. Mix together with a spoon or with your hands. Slowly add in the low-fat milk, water, eggs, and olive oil while mixing until you have a soft dough.
- Once you have a soft dough, turn it out onto the counter and knead for about 10 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add in a bit more 00 flour until it is manageable. If it’s too dry, add in some water.
- Once the dough is kneaded, place it in a greased bowl and cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Once the dough has doubled in size, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place them on a greased baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel and let rise for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size again.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Once the dough has doubled in size again, brush it with a bit of melted butter and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool before serving.
Notes
- To make sure that your bread is light and fluffy, make sure to knead the dough for enough time.
- To get an extra crispy crust, brush the top of the bread with a bit of melted butter before baking.
- Letting your dough rise for a longer period of time will also help give it a better texture and flavor.
- You can use different types of flours such as whole wheat or rye for a different flavor.
- You can use coconut oil instead of olive oil for a slightly different flavor.
- You can add herbs and spices to the dough. Try adding rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an herb flavor. You can also add chopped nuts or dried fruit for a sweeter flavor!
- If you don’t have honey, you can substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Nutritional Information
What to serve with Johnny Carino’s Bread?
Johnny Carino’s Bread is the perfect accompaniment to savory dishes such as soups, stews, pasta, and salads. It also pairs nicely with cheese or spreads like pesto or tapenade. You can even use it for sandwiches or toast in the morning!
For a sweet treat, you can serve Johnny Carino’s Bread with honey or jam and a steaming cup of coffee. For a more indulgent snack, try dipping it in melted chocolate or sprinkling it with cinnamon and sugar.
How to store leftover Johnny Carino’s Bread?
Leftover Johnny Carino’s Bread should be stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. It can be kept at room temperature for 2-3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
If you want to keep it longer than that, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to use, simply thaw the bread at room temperature, or warm it up in the oven for a few minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can eat Johnny Carino’s Bread. This Italian-style bread is made with simple ingredients. While it may not be the healthiest option for breakfast or a snack during pregnancy, it can be an occasional treat.
It is important to note that some of the ingredients, such as honey and eggs, can carry a risk of foodborne illness. Therefore, it is important to make sure that the bread has been cooked thoroughly before eating.
FAQs
Can I make this bread in a bread machine?
Yes, you can make this recipe in a bread machine. Simply add all of the ingredients to the machine in the order listed and set it to the dough setting. Once the dough is finished, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and follow the rest of the instructions as indicated.
Can I use other types of flour for this?
Yes, you can use different types of flour such as whole wheat or rye for a different flavor. You can also use all-purpose flour instead of 00 flour if needed.
Can I substitute the eggs with something else?
Yes, you can substitute the eggs with applesauce or mashed bananas to make this recipe vegan.
Is Johnny Carino’s Bread gluten-free?
No, this recipe is not suitable for those on a gluten-free diet as it contains wheat flour. If you are looking for a gluten-free bread recipe, try making a gluten-free version using certified gluten-free flour and ingredients.
Can diabetes patients eat this bread?
Yes, diabetes patients can eat Johnny Carino’s Bread in moderation. It does contain some carbohydrates which can have an effect on blood sugar levels so it is important to monitor your intake of this bread if you are diabetic. Additionally, this recipe does not contain any added sugar, so it is a better option than other types of breads that might have added sugars.
Wrapping Up
Thank you for taking the time to read this guide on how to make Johnny Carino’s Bread! This delicious Italian-style bread is perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed with savory dishes or sweet treats.
If you are looking for more recipes to try, you can find many great ideas in our articles. Please share this article with your friends and family if you enjoyed it, and be sure to leave a comment below if you have any questions or suggestions.
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.
