Italian Hard Rolls

Same-day homemade Italian bread - what could be better?

I discovered this recipe when I planned to bake buns but forgot to make a preferment the night before. They are a little less chewy and don't seem to develop as crisp a crust as a true Italian loaf, but they are delicious.

A sponge of water, yeast and flour that rests for 2 hours starts the process. The remaining ingredients, including honey and olive oil, are added, the dough is kneaded and then left to rise. The dough, which is very easy to work with, is then shaped, proofed again, and baked.

Easy and great tasting.