Savory Olive Cheese Bread 🥖🧀

This irresistible Olive Cheese Bread is the perfect blend of savory flavors that will elevate any occasion! With the delightful combination of olives, melted cheese, and aromatic herbs, it's ideal for serving as an appetizer, snack, or even as a delightful side to your meals.

Get ready to indulge in a soft, cheesy, and utterly satisfying bread that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in!

Ingredients

For the bread

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the filling

• 1 cup mixed olives, pitted and chopped (green and black for color)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick!)

Instructions

• In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.

🥄 This step is crucial, as it activates the yeast and ensures a good rise for your bread.

• Add the olive oil, salt, and half of the flour to the yeast mixture. Mix well, then gradually incorporate the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.

• Lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

• While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix together the olives, mozzarella, feta, minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.

• After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air and turn it onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick.

• Spread the olive cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving about half an inch of space along the edges. Roll the dough tightly from one long side to form a log.

• Place the rolled dough seam-side down in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover it with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen again, bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

• Allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice and serve warm!

🥖 Try to resist the urge to slice it too soon; letting it cool slightly will help maintain its structure and make slicing easier.

Variations

• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. You may want to add extra moisture like applesauce or yogurt for a softer texture. 🍏
• Herb-infused: Add fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the filling for an aromatic twist!
• Cheesy extravaganza: Mix in a handful of grated parmesan or cheddar cheese for added depth and flavor.
• Stuff it more: For a gourmet touch, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and texture.

Enjoy this cheesy goodness fresh out of the oven with a drizzle of olive oil or your favorite dipping sauce! 🧄🍞