Olive Oil Bread Recipe
Looking for a delicious homemade bread that’s both simple to prepare and rich in flavor? This olive oil bread recipe is the ideal solution. With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create soft, golden loaves that are perfect for sandwiches, toasts, or as a side to your favorite meal. The bread’s crispy crust and soft, airy crumb make it a crowd favorite. Plus, olive oil adds a delicate richness that elevates the flavor, making this bread a versatile addition to any kitchen.
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Ingredients You’ll Need
To make three miniature loaves of olive oil bread, you will need the following ingredients:
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| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 4 tsp. (60 ml) |
| Fermented yeast | 10 grams, or 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Warm water (around 45°C/110°F) | 320 ml (12 tablespoons) |
| White flour | 570 grams (4 3/4 cups) |
Step-by-Step Olive Oil Bread Recipe
1. Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the flour, yeast, salt, olive oil, and warm water in a large mixing bowl. Mix these ingredients together until a dough forms. Once the dough has come together, transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Kneading activates the gluten in the flour, ensuring the bread will have a good structure.
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2. Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and leave it in a warm, draft-free spot for about an hour, or until the dough has doubled in size. This first rise is crucial for developing flavor and allowing the dough to become light and airy.
3. Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any excess air. Divide the dough into three equal portions and shape each into a loaf. You can be creative with your loaf shapes—round, oval, or rectangular loaves are all excellent choices. For an artisanal touch, make small incisions on the top of each loaf and dust them lightly with flour.
4. Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Place the loaves on a baking tray and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the bread has a beautiful golden brown crust. If you’re unsure, tap the bottom of the loaves—they should sound hollow when done. For an extra-crispy crust, place a shallow pan of water on the lower rack of the oven during baking.
5. Let the Bread Cool
Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack. Cooling the bread completely is essential to set the crumb structure and enhance its flavor. Resist the temptation to cut into the bread right away—it’s worth the wait!
