Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread Recipe

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Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread Recipe: A Savory Delight for Every Occasion

There’s something about homemade bread that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Add savory olives, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, and you’ve got a winning combination that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply want to elevate your family’s weekly bread loaf, this Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread is the perfect way to do it.

In this recipe, we’ll take a basic bread dough and transform it into a flavorful, cheesy, and perfectly salty delight that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes. The flavors of the briny olives, smoky bacon, and gooey cheese balance each other out in every bite. Plus, this bread freezes well, so you can always keep a loaf handy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of olives, bacon, and cheese ensures that each slice is packed with savory goodness.
• Versatile: Serve it alongside soups, salads, or use it for the best sandwiches ever!
• Simple to Make: No fancy bread-making skills needed. With easy-to-find ingredients, anyone can make this bread.

Let’s dive into the recipe and make this delicious bread at home.

Tips for Making the Perfect Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread

• Choosing the Right Olives: Opt for pitted green or Kalamata olives for the best results. Green olives offer a slightly tangier flavor, while Kalamata olives provide a rich, earthy taste. Be sure to drain and pat them dry before adding them to the dough to prevent excess moisture.
• Bacon Tips: Cook the bacon until it’s crispy but not burnt. This way, it stays crunchy in the bread without overpowering the flavors. You can also experiment with smoked or flavored bacon to add an extra kick.
• Cheese Selection: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to swap in mozzarella, Gouda, or even pepper jack if you prefer a spicy touch.
• Mix-Ins: If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra burst of flavor.
• Baking the Bread: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before putting the bread in. This ensures a crispy crust and soft interior. Use a loaf pan or shape it by hand for a more rustic look.

Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup lukewarm water
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup pitted green or Kalamata olives, roughly chopped
• 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your choice of cheese)
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (optional)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the lukewarm water and olive oil. Mix until a rough dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
3. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
4. Mix in the Goodies: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and gently knead in the olives, bacon, cheese, and rosemary (if using). Make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Shape and Second Rise: Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan, or form it into a rustic shape on a baking sheet. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Egg Wash: Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg to create a golden, shiny crust.
8. Bake: Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom and the crust is golden brown.
9. Cool: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour may result in a denser loaf, so you may need to adjust the amount of water slightly.

2. Can I make this bread without yeast?
This recipe relies on yeast for the bread to rise and develop its soft texture. If you’re looking for a quicker, yeast-free version, you might try adapting it into a quick bread using baking powder, though the texture will be different.

3. Can I freeze this bread?
Absolutely! Let the bread cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the oven for a few minutes to freshen it up.

4. How should I store leftovers?
Store the leftover bread in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it.

5. Can I add other ingredients to this bread?
Of course! This bread is very versatile. You can add sun-dried tomatoes, caramelized onions, or swap the bacon for ham or pancetta. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses as well!

Final Thoughts

This Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread is the perfect combination of flavors and textures, making it a fantastic choice for any meal. It’s great served with soups, salads, or even as a savory snack on its own. The next time you’re in the mood to bake, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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