Olive Bread

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Warm, rustic, and filled with savory bursts of briny olives, this homemade Olive Bread brings a bakery-quality loaf straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re slicing it up for sandwiches, serving it alongside a cozy bowl of soup, or simply enjoying it with a smear of butter, this bread never disappoints.

Its golden crust and soft, chewy interior are the result of a slow fermentation that allows the flavors to develop deeply. What makes this loaf stand out is the mix of olives folded right into the dough, giving each bite a tangy pop that pairs beautifully with the subtle richness of olive oil.

Why You’ll Love This Olive Bread

This recipe is easy to make, even if you’re not a seasoned bread baker. It requires no kneading, just a bit of patience for the rise. It’s incredibly versatile too — serve it toasted with eggs in the morning, turn it into grilled cheese at lunch, or tear off a piece to dip in olive oil and balsamic as a dinner appetizer. Plus, it stores well, and even freezes beautifully.

What Kind of Olives Should I Use?

You can use a mix of your favorites. Kalamata olives bring a deep, fruity flavor, while green olives add a milder, buttery bite. Just make sure they’re pitted and chopped. Brined olives are best because they hold their shape and flavor during baking. If you prefer a stronger olive taste, go heavier with the Kalamatas.

Ingredients for the Olive Bread

This recipe uses a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a key role in texture and flavor.

• Bread flour: Provides structure and chew to the loaf.
• Instant yeast: Helps the dough rise with minimal effort.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and strengthens gluten.
• Warm water: Activates the yeast and binds the dough.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and moisture.
• Chopped olives: The star of the show, bringing bold, briny flavor to every bite.

How To Make the Olive Bread

Step 1: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast. Pour in the warm water and olive oil, then stir until a shaggy dough forms. Add the chopped olives and mix just until combined. The dough will be sticky.

Step 2: First Rise

Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rest at room temperature for 8 to 12 hours. It should double in size and be bubbly.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

Flour a surface well and turn the dough out. With floured hands, shape it gently into a round loaf. Avoid deflating it too much. Place it on parchment paper and let it rest for another 30 to 45 minutes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 450°F with a Dutch oven inside. Carefully transfer the dough (with parchment) into the hot Dutch oven, cover, and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for 10-15 more minutes until golden brown and crisp.

Step 5: Cool Before Slicing

Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This helps finish the cooking process inside and preserves the structure.

How to Serve and Store Olive Bread

This recipe makes one medium loaf, perfect for feeding 6 to 8 people. Serve it fresh out of the oven for that crisp crust and soft interior, or toast it the next day for a different texture experience. It’s excellent for sandwiches, soups, or simply dipped in seasoned olive oil.

Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep it longer, slice and freeze it. Toast slices straight from the freezer as needed.

What to Serve With Olive Bread?

Hearty Soups

A bowl of Cajun Potato Soup is perfect for dipping this bread into its creamy, spicy broth.

Cheese Boards

Add thick slices of olive bread to your next spread with soft brie, aged cheddar, and fruit preserves.

Mediterranean Meals

Pair it with Mediterranean White Beans and Greens for a healthy and hearty plant-based dinner.

Pasta Nights

Serve alongside Cheesy Baked Ziti to soak up all that sauce with a chewy bite of bread.

Picnic Baskets

Use it to make rustic sandwiches with cured meats, cheeses, and roasted red peppers.

Savory Dips

Try it with a warm spinach-artichoke dip or a simple whipped feta and honey drizzle.

Breakfast Toasts

Top slices with avocado, poached eggs, or ricotta and cherry tomatoes.

Simple Snack

Just toast and drizzle with olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of herbs.

Want More Bread Ideas?

If you enjoy baking savory loaves like this one, take a look at these comforting and flavor-packed recipes:

• Grandma Nardi’s Italian Easter Bread for a festive touch.
• Pumpkin Bread With Maple Cream Cheese Filling when you’re craving something sweet.
• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli for a complete meal where this bread works beautifully on the side.
• Cajun Potato Soup is also a delicious way to dip and enjoy olive bread.
• Mediterranean White Beans and Greens as a full vegetarian plate.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s always within reach when you’re craving a savory bake.

Let me know how your loaf turned out. Did you try it with green or kalamata olives? Maybe both? Have you experimented with sun-dried tomatoes or herbs too?

I love seeing the ways you all personalize these recipes. Drop your questions or your favorite variations in the comments below.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting recipes and more on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and find your new kitchen inspiration!

Conclusion

Making olive bread at home is surprisingly simple and deeply satisfying. With a crunchy crust, pillowy center, and savory olive bursts, it’s a perfect companion to your favorite meals or a comforting treat all on its own. Enjoy every slice!

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?