Name: Olive and cheese bread with capers and thyme (with step-by-step pictures)
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 500 g stone ground white bread flour; 10 ml instant yeast ((2 teaspoons)); 7.5 ml salt ((1.5 teaspoons)); 300 ml lukewarm water; 15 ml extra virgin olive oil; 300 g mozzarella cheese (roughly grated); 40 g parmesan cheese (finely grated); 1 cup kalamata olives (pitted & halved); 2-3 tbsp baby capers ((in brine, drained)); 4-5 sprigs thyme (leaves only (woody stalks discarded), plus extra); 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling, plus extra); salt; pepper

Introduction to Olive and Cheese Bread

Why homemade bread?

There’s something truly special about baking bread at home. The warm aroma that fills your kitchen, the satisfaction of kneading the dough, and the anticipation of watching it rise can be deeply rewarding. Homemade bread, especially olive and cheese bread, carries a personal touch that store-bought varieties simply can’t match. Plus, you have control over the ingredients, ensuring that it’s fresh and tailored to your taste. It's the perfect weekend project or a way to impress guests at gatherings!

The beauty of olive and cheese combinations

The delightful medley of olives and cheese creates a harmony that tantalizes the taste buds. Olives bring a briny richness, while cheeses like mozzarella and parmesan melt beautifully, adding creaminess and depth. When you include capers and thyme in this olive and cheese bread, the flavor profile becomes even more complex, resulting in an irresistible loaf that pairs excellently with soups, salads, or as a standalone snack.

If you’d like to explore more about the health benefits and culinary versatility of olives, check out resources from health sites such as Healthline and Natural Food Series.

Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Let’s get started with the step-by-step guide to creating this mouthwatering olive and cheese bread with capers and thyme!

Ingredients for Olive and Cheese Bread

There's something immensely satisfying about making your own bread, especially when it involves delightful fillings like mozzarella, olives, and capers. Let’s dive into the key components you'll need for your delicious olive and cheese bread.

For the dough

To create the perfect base for your bread, gather these simple ingredients:

500 g stone ground white bread flour: This gives a wonderful texture.
10 ml (2 teaspoons) instant yeast: The magic ingredient that makes your dough rise.
7.5 ml (1.5 teaspoons) salt: Essential for flavor.
300 ml lukewarm water: Helps activate the yeast and bind the ingredients.
15 ml extra virgin olive oil: Adds a rich flavor and moisture.

For the filling

Now, let’s talk about what makes this bread a standout. The filling will be:

300 g mozzarella cheese, roughly grated: Melty goodness!
½ cup (about 40 g) parmesan cheese, finely grated: A sharp kick of flavor.
1 cup kalamata olives, pitted & halved: For a burst of briny goodness.
2-3 tablespoons baby capers (in brine, drained): To provide a zingy contrast.
4-5 sprigs thyme, leaves only: Fresh herb flavors boost your bread’s profile.
About ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling: Enhances moisture and taste.
Salt & pepper: To taste, balancing all the flavors.

Each ingredient serves a purpose, harmonizing into a delightful culinary experience. Ready to knead some dough? Check out the full recipe with step-by-step pictures for guidance!

Preparing Olive and Cheese Bread

When it comes to baking, few things are as rewarding as pulling a freshly baked olive and cheese bread from the oven. Not only does it fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas, but it’s also a delightful treat to share with friends and family. Let’s take a look at how to prepare this crowd-pleaser step by step.

Mixing the Dough

Start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need 500 g of stone-ground white bread flour, 15 ml of extra virgin olive oil, and the other components. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the K-beater, combine the flour, 2 teaspoons of instant yeast, and 1.5 teaspoons of salt. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly before adding 300 ml of lukewarm water and 15 ml of olive oil. If you don't have a stand mixer, no worries! You can mix it all by hand in a large bowl. Once combined, switch to the dough hook and knead for about 7 minutes (or around 10 minutes by hand) until you achieve a smooth, elastic texture.

Proofing the Dough

After mixing, it’s time for the dough to rise. Shape it into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap or a reusable wax wrap and let it proof until it doubles in size, which should take about 30 minutes. The warmth is key here—make sure to find a cozy spot in your kitchen.

Preparing the Filling

While the dough is rising, you can prepare the savory filling that will make your olive and cheese bread unforgettable. Start by grating 300 g of mozzarella cheese and finely grating ½ cup of parmesan cheese. Then, handle those kalamata olives, pitting and halving 1 cup worth. Don’t forget to drain 2-3 tablespoons of baby capers and strip the leaves from 4-5 sprigs of thyme. Combine all your filling ingredients in a bowl, mixing in a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to adjust the herbs to your liking—thyme pairs beautifully with both the olives and the cheese.

Assembling the Bread

Once your dough has completed its rise, preheat your oven to 200°C and line a large baking dish with non-stick baking paper. Roll your dough out on a floured surface into a rectangle of about 30 x 40 cm. Spread the mozzarella, parmesan, olives, capers, and thyme evenly across the dough. Start at one edge and carefully roll it into a log. Use a sharp knife to slice it into rounds, and place each round cut side up in your prepared baking dish. Cover them lightly with a tea towel and let them rise for another 15 minutes.

Baking the Bread

Finally, it’s baking time! Pop your olive and cheese bread into the oven and let it bake for about 35 minutes, or until you see a golden-brown crust. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with salt, pepper, additional thyme, and a drizzle of olive oil. You can easily transfer it to a serving plate, and I guarantee your guests will be back for seconds!

This step-by-step approach ensures that even the novice cook can create an impressive loaf that’s sure to wow anyone. Have fun experimenting with flavors, and don’t hesitate to share your creations! If you’re interested in more bread-making tips, check out some expert resources like King Arthur Baking or The Bread Book. Happy baking!

Variations on Olive and Cheese Bread

Add Different Cheeses

Elevate your olive and cheese bread by exploring the wonderful world of cheeses! Consider swapping out mozzarella for creamy goat cheese or tangy feta. For a sharper kick, why not give aged cheddar or blue cheese a try? Mixing different cheeses not only enhances the flavor but also adds an interesting melty texture that will delight your taste buds.

Experiment with Other Fillings

Don't stop at olives and capers! Get creative by adding sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also lend a delightful aroma and flavor twist. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility; customize it to suit your palate or celebrate seasonal ingredients. Who’s ready to get baking?

For more ideas, check out The Cheese Shop or The Herb Garden!

Cooking Notes for Olive and Cheese Bread

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making olive and cheese bread, there are a few pitfalls to watch out for. First, ensure your yeast is fresh; expired yeast can lead to a dense bread. Always measure your ingredients accurately—too much flour can make the dough tough. Lastly, when rolling out your dough, avoid adding flour to the surface excessively; this can compromise the texture of your final loaf.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Crust

To get that coveted crispy crust on your olive and cheese bread, make sure your oven is preheated thoroughly. A hot oven creates steam that enhances crust formation. Additionally, consider placing a shallow dish of water in the oven to create steam while baking. This helps achieve that golden crust we all love. Lastly, letting it cool on a wire rack for a few minutes after baking will keep the crust crunchy—who doesn’t appreciate a satisfying crunch with every bite?

For more helpful baking insights, check out King Arthur Baking's tips for achieving the perfect bake.

Serving Suggestions for Olive and Cheese Bread

Pairing with Dips

Elevate your olive and cheese bread experience by serving it with delightful dips! A rich roasted red pepper hummus adds a lovely sweetness, while tzatziki offers a refreshing coolness. For a bit of heat, consider a spicy arrabbiata sauce or a classic pesto. These dips not only complement the savory flavors of the bread but also create a fun, interactive dining experience.

Ideal Accompaniments

To round out your meal, think about hearty accompaniments. A light arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the olive and cheese bread. Additionally, pairing it with savory charcuterie, like slices of turkey bacon or chicken ham, makes for a satisfying spread. Don’t forget a selection of olives and pickled vegetables to nibble on the side. It’s perfect for hosting or simply enjoying a cozy night in!

Time details for Olive and Cheese Bread

Preparation time

Getting started on your olive and cheese bread takes about 30 minutes. This includes a bit of mixing and rolling, so make sure you have everything measured and ready to go!

Baking time

Once your dough has risen and is ready, the baking process lasts 35 minutes in the oven at 200°C. You'll love how the aroma fills your kitchen!

Total time

In total, you’re looking at approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes from start to finish. This delightful bread is definitely worth every minute of your time! For more tips on baking, check out this guide on bread baking at King Arthur Baking.

Why this timing matters

Creating the perfect olive and cheese bread is all about the details. Each step, from the rising time to the baking, contributes to that fluffy texture and irresistible flavor. Plus, the smell while it bakes? Unmatched! Making this a great choice for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Embrace the process, and don’t rush it. The results will speak for themselves! For even more delicious recipes and insights into baking, visit BBC Good Food for inspiration. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information for Olive and Cheese Bread

When indulging in this delicious olive and cheese bread, it's great to know what you're savoring. Here's a quick overview to satisfy your curiosity:

Calories

Each serving of this flavorful bread contains approximately 250 calories. Perfect for a delightful snack or as part of a meal!

Protein

With a generous 12 grams of protein per serving, the combination of mozzarella and parmesan cheese adds not only richness but also a nutritious boost to your diet.

Fiber

You can enjoy around 3 grams of fiber in every slice, thanks to the stone ground flour. Fiber is essential for digestion and keeps you feeling full longer, making this bread a satisfying choice.

For more insights on bread nutrition, check out resources like The USDA FoodData Central - an excellent way to explore what’s on your plate!

FAQs about Olive and Cheese Bread

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare your olive and cheese bread dough a day in advance. Simply let it rise, then punch it down and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, let the dough come back to room temperature, fill it with your desired ingredients, and let it rise again before baking. This makes it perfect for gatherings!

What can I use instead of kalamata olives?

If you’re not a fan of kalamata olives, don’t worry! You can substitute them with green olives, black olives, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist. Each option brings its own unique flavor that can complement the rich cheeses and capers beautifully.

How can I store leftover bread?

To keep your olive and cheese bread fresh, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Just slice it beforehand, so you can easily grab a piece whenever you crave a tasty snack!

If you’re looking for more tips and tricks, feel free to explore resources like King Arthur Baking for further baking guidance and inspiration.

Conclusion on Olive and Cheese Bread

Crafting a delectable olive and cheese bread bursting with flavors is incredibly rewarding. This recipe not only elevates any meal but also makes for a delightful snack on its own. Perfect for sharing with friends or savoring during a cozy night in, your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy!