Description
Easy Olive Cheese Bread is a simple and flavorful bread combining the rich creaminess of cheese with the tangy, salty bite of mixed olives. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, this bread features a soft crumb and a golden crust, offering a deliciously warm and inviting treat for any occasion. Its straightforward ingredients and easy preparation make it accessible to both beginners and experienced bakers alike.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Leavening
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one 7g packet)
Mix-ins
- 1 cup mixed olives, roughly chopped (black and green)
- 1 to 1 ½ cups cheese (mozzarella or cheddar), shredded or diced
Instructions
- Prep and Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy, confirming that the yeast is active and ready.
- Mix Dough Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the olive oil and the activated yeast mixture, stirring until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Incorporate Olives and Cheese: Punch down the risen dough gently, then knead in the roughly chopped mixed olives and shredded cheese until evenly distributed throughout the dough. Avoid over-kneading to prevent crushing the olives.
- Shape and Second Rise: Shape the dough into a loaf or divide it into smaller rolls. Place them on a greased baking tray, cover loosely, and let rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffed up.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Optionally, brush the top of the dough with olive oil for a shiny crust. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing to preserve the gooey cheese texture.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure proper yeast activation and good dough rise.
- Be gentle when kneading in olives and cheese to maintain pleasant texture.
- The dough should be soft but not sticky; adjust flour or water as needed for the right consistency.
- Allow enough rising time to achieve a fluffy and light bread.
- Brushing with olive oil before baking enhances crust flavor and appearance.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 60g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1.5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: olive cheese bread, savory bread, easy bread recipe, appetizer bread, cheesy olive bread
