This olive bread recipe is perfect for bread machine enthusiasts who want to enjoy the rich, savory flavors of olives in their homemade bread. The process is simple, allowing you to create a delicious loaf with minimal effort.
Using a bread machine ensures consistent results and takes the guesswork out of bread-making. This recipe is ideal for serving alongside soups, salads, or as a tasty sandwich base.
Creating the Perfect Olive Bread
Olive bread is a delightful addition to any meal, bringing a unique flavor profile that enhances a variety of dishes. The combination of green and black olives creates a savory taste that pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or even as a base for sandwiches.
Using a bread machine simplifies the process, allowing you to enjoy freshly baked bread without the usual complexities of traditional baking. The machine takes care of mixing, kneading, and baking, ensuring a consistent and delicious loaf every time.
Ingredients for Olive Bread
To make this olive bread, gather a few essential ingredients. You’ll need warm water, olive oil, bread flour, salt, sugar, and bread machine yeast. The star ingredients are, of course, the olives—both green and black can be used to add depth to the flavor.
Optional ingredients like dried oregano can also be included for an extra layer of taste. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect loaf with a soft crumb and a golden crust.
The Baking Process
Start by adding the warm water and olive oil to the bread machine pan. Layer the dry ingredients next, ensuring the yeast is placed in a small well created in the flour. This helps activate the yeast properly without interference from the salt or sugar.
Once the ingredients are added, sprinkle the chopped olives and any optional herbs on top. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal of the bread.
Setting Up the Bread Machine
After closing the lid, select the appropriate settings on your bread machine. Choose the Basic or White Bread setting, adjust for a 1.5-pound loaf size, and opt for a medium crust color. These settings will ensure that the bread bakes evenly and achieves the desired texture.
Press Start, and let the machine work its magic. The process typically takes around two and a half hours, resulting in a beautifully baked loaf that fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma.
Cooling and Slicing
Once the baking cycle is complete, carefully remove the bread from the pan and allow it to cool on a wire rack. This step is essential, as it prevents the bottom from becoming soggy and ensures a perfect crust.
After cooling, slice the bread to reveal its soft interior, dotted with pieces of olives. The contrast between the crunchy crust and the tender crumb makes for a delightful eating experience.
Serving Suggestions
This olive bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it alongside a bowl of olive oil for dipping, or pair it with your favorite spreads. It can also be toasted for a crunchy texture, making it an excellent choice for bruschetta or as a base for open-faced sandwiches.
Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal, this olive bread is sure to impress with its rustic charm and rich flavors. Embrace the simplicity of bread-making with this easy recipe, and savor the delightful results.
Easy Olive Bread Recipe for Bread Machine
This olive bread features a soft, flavorful crumb infused with the taste of olives. The recipe takes about 3 hours from start to finish and yields one 1.5-pound loaf.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (110°F to 115°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons bread machine yeast
- 1 cup pitted olives, chopped (green or black, or a mix)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
Instructions
- Add Ingredients: Pour the warm water and olive oil into the bread machine pan. Add the bread flour, salt, sugar, and yeast in that order. Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast.
- Mix Olives: If using, sprinkle the chopped olives and oregano on top of the flour.
- Select Settings: Close the lid and select the Basic or White Bread setting on your bread machine. Choose the 1.5-pound loaf size and medium crust color.
- Start the Machine: Press Start to begin the mixing and baking process.
- Cool: Once the baking cycle is complete, carefully remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 24g