A Simple Recipe for Soft, Golden Loaves You’ll Make Again and Again
There’s something undeniably special about baking bread from scratch. The gentle rhythm of kneading, the comforting rise of the dough, and that unmistakable aroma filling the kitchen as it bakes — it’s an experience that connects you to generations of home bakers.
This Homemade Olive Oil Bread recipe is simple, rustic, and absolutely delicious. It’s perfect for beginners and satisfying for seasoned bakers alike. The result? A soft, golden loaf with a hint of olive oil richness — perfect for sandwiches, dipping in soup, or enjoying warm with butter.
🧡 Why You’ll Love This Bread
- Easy to make — minimal ingredients, no fancy equipment needed.
- Soft, tender crumb — thanks to olive oil, the texture is airy and moist.
- Crispy golden crust — finished with a beautiful sheen.
- Versatile — perfect with savory meals, sweet toppings, or on its own.
Whether you're craving toast in the morning or want a side for your pasta dinner, this bread delivers.
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 4 cups (plus extra for kneading) |
| Active dry yeast | 1 packet (2¼ teaspoons) |
| Warm water (110°F / 43°C) | 1½ cups |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons (plus extra for greasing & brushing) |
| Sugar | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1½ teaspoons |
| Optional toppings | Coarse sea salt or chopped rosemary |
📝 Note: Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor — fruity, peppery oils add beautiful nuance.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 1½ cups warm water
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This shows the yeast is alive and ready.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Add to the bowl:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, one cup at a time
Mix until a sticky dough forms. You can use a wooden spoon or dough hook.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- If too sticky, add a little flour as needed.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover with a clean towel.
Step 4: First Rise
Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
💡 Tip: A turned-off oven with the light on makes a great rising spot!
Step 5: Shape the Loaf
Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Shape into a round boule or an oval loaf.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan.
Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–40 minutes.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the top of the loaf with olive oil.
- Optionally, sprinkle with sea salt, rosemary, or both.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
This helps the interior set and makes slicing easier.
🥖 How to Serve It
This olive oil bread is versatile enough to enjoy in many ways:
- Warm with butter or jam
- Toasted with avocado or eggs
- As a sandwich base — try with mozzarella, tomato, and basil
- Dipped in herbed olive oil
- As a side to soups, stews, or pasta
🔁 Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Wrap in foil or store in a bread bag for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Slice and freeze for up to 2 months. Toast straight from the freezer.
- Refreshing: Pop in the oven at 300°F for 5–7 minutes to refresh a day-old loaf.
🌿 Optional Add-Ins & Variations
Want to change it up? Try one of these:
- Add chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes to the dough
- Use whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf
- Add grated Parmesan for a cheesy finish
- Top with sesame or poppy seeds for texture
📝 Final Thoughts
Homemade Olive Oil Bread is the kind of recipe that turns a simple meal into something memorable. With just a few ingredients and a bit of time, you can bake a loaf that rivals your favorite bakery — fresh, flavorful, and made with love.
Whether you're new to baking or looking for a dependable, delicious bread recipe, this one is worth bookmarking.
🍽️ Have you tried this recipe?
Share your experience in the comments or tag us with your fresh loaf on social media!
#OliveOilBread #HomemadeBread #BakingJoy
Leave a Reply