Lykkers, have you ever wanted to bake your own bread but felt intimidated by complicated recipes? Today, we're sharing a simple and beginner-friendly olive oil bread recipe that requires no eggs or dairy.

Instead, we use high-quality olive oil to create a soft, airy texture that's perfect for sandwiches or just enjoying on its own. This recipe is also completely plant-based, making it a great option for anyone looking for a lighter, healthier bread.

Why Use Olive Oil in Bread?

Olive oil is an excellent alternative to butter in baking. It gives the bread a mild, natural flavor while keeping it soft and moist. Since olive oil contains healthy fats, this bread is a better choice for those who prefer a cleaner, lighter diet. Plus, without eggs or dairy, it's easier to digest and suits a variety of dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Olive Oil Bread

To make this bread, we'll need just a few simple ingredients:

• All-purpose or bread flour – This gives the bread its structure.

• Olive oil – The key ingredient for a tender and flavorful loaf.

• Yeast – Helps the dough rise and gives the bread a fluffy texture.

• Sugar – A small amount to activate the yeast and add a hint of sweetness.

• Salt – Enhances the flavor and balances the taste.

• Water – Used to bring the dough together and create the right texture.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Olive Oil Bread

1. Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the olive oil and warm water, then mix everything together until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour. If it's too dry, add a few drops of water. The goal is a smooth, elastic dough that isn't too wet or too stiff.

2. Knead Until Smooth

Kneading is an essential step in bread making. Turn the dough onto a clean surface and knead it for about 10–15 minutes until it becomes smooth and stretchy. If you're using a stand mixer, knead on low speed for about 8 minutes.

3. First Rise

Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size. This usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the room temperature.

4. Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, gently press it down to release air bubbles. Divide it into six equal portions and let them rest for 15 minutes. Then, roll each piece into a rectangle, fold the edges toward the center, and roll it up from top to bottom.

5. Final Proofing

Place the rolled dough into a greased bread pan, arranging them evenly. Cover it and let it rise again in a warm place until it fills about 80–90% of the pan. This step ensures a soft, airy texture.

6. Bake to Perfection

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Once the dough has risen, cover the pan with a lid (if using a pullman loaf pan) and bake in the lower rack of the oven for about 40 minutes. The bread should have a golden crust and a fluffy interior.

7. Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack. This helps maintain its texture and prevents it from becoming soggy. Once cooled, slice and enjoy!

Customization Ideas

If you want to add extra nutrition to your bread, try mixing in some oats or seeds to the dough. This creates a more wholesome loaf with added texture and fiber. You can also experiment with different types of olive oil for subtle variations in flavor.

Final Thoughts

Baking bread at home is easier than we think, and this olive oil bread is the perfect place to start. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, even beginners can create a delicious, bakery-quality loaf. Lykkers, have you tried making your own bread before? If not, why not give this recipe a try and share your experience with us? We'd love to hear from you!