Dill Pickle Bread

Dill Pickle Bread is a savory, tangy loaf infused with bits of crunchy dill pickles and fresh dill, offering a unique twist on traditional bread. It’s soft on the inside with a golden crust and perfect for sandwiches or as a flavorful snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bread brings a fun and unexpected pickle flavor that pairs perfectly with deli meats, cheeses, or even just butter. It’s easy to make with common pantry ingredients and brightened by fresh herbs and pickles for a deliciously tangy bite. Great for picnic sandwiches, burgers, or as a snack on its own.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
• ½ cup dill pickle juice
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped dill pickles (drained well)
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

directions

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, dill pickle juice, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Stir in olive oil, then add flour, salt, chopped pickles, and dill. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1–1½ hours.
5. Punch down dough and shape into a loaf. Place in a greased loaf pan.
6. Cover and let rise for another 30–45 minutes.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake loaf for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.
8. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12 slices
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Rise time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cook time: 30–35 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 2 hours 25 minutes

Variations

• Substitute fresh dill with dried dill if fresh isn’t available.
• Add shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese to the dough for extra richness.
• Incorporate garlic powder or onion flakes for additional flavor depth.
• Make rolls instead of a loaf for individual servings.
• Use sweet pickles instead of dill for a sweeter bread variant.

storage/reheating

• Store bread in an airtight container or wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, slice and freeze bread in a resealable bag for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, toast slices or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use pickle relish instead of chopped pickles?

Yes, but relish is usually sweeter and wetter, so reduce added sugar and drain well to avoid sogginess.

Will the bread taste strongly of pickles?

It has a pleasant tang but isn’t overpowering—balanced by the herbs and bread’s mild flavor.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

You can try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but texture and rise might differ.

How do I store leftover bread?

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil at room temperature; avoid refrigeration to prevent drying.

Can I add seeds or nuts?

Yes, sunflower seeds or poppy seeds add great crunch and flavor.

What’s the best way to knead the dough?

Use the heel of your hand to push and fold the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes.

Can I make this bread in a bread machine?

Yes, add ingredients according to your machine’s instructions, using the dough cycle.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

It should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

Yes, use about 1 teaspoon dried dill in place of 2 tablespoons fresh.

Does the pickle juice affect yeast activation?

No, the yeast activates normally in the mixture of water and pickle juice as long as the temperature is right.

Conclusion

Dill Pickle Bread is a fun and flavorful twist on everyday bread, perfect for adding zest to sandwiches or snacking. Easy to make and versatile, it brings a unique tang and herby aroma that pickle lovers will adore. Try baking a loaf today for a delightful homemade bread experience.

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