Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add the olive oil, bread flour, and salt. Mix on low speed until a shaggy dough forms, about 2 minutes.
- Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead for 6-8 minutes, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and pulls cleanly away from the sides of the bowl. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If it's too sticky, add 1 tbsp of flour at a time. If it's too dry, add water 1 tsp at a time.
- Lightly oil a large bowl. Form the dough into a smooth ball, place it in the bowl, and turn to coat with oil. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel. Let rise in a warm, draft-free place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 16x12 inches and 1/4-inch thick. Try to keep the thickness even for consistent baking.
- Add your desired stromboli fillings, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides. Starting from a long side, tightly roll the dough into a log, pinching the seam and ends to seal. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet, seam-side down. Let rest for 15 minutes while preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Brush the top of the stromboli with olive oil or an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water). Use a sharp knife to cut 4-5 shallow slits across the top for steam to escape. Bake for 22-27 minutes, until deeply golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Chef's Tips:
• For a crispier crust, place a baking steel or inverted baking sheet on the lower oven rack while preheating.
• The most common mistake is overfilling. Less is more to prevent leaks.
• Serve with warmed marinara sauce for dipping.
Food Safety:
• Ensure fillings like raw sausage are fully cooked before adding to the dough
• Cool stromboli on a wire rack to prevent the bottom from becoming soggy
