This cheesy bread filled with olives and bacon is a tasty treat! It’s soft, fluffy, and oh-so-comforting. Perfect for sharing, or just keeping all to yourself! 😁
I love serving this bread warm, with a bit of butter on top. Once you take a bite, you’ll understand why it disappears so quickly. Who can resist cheesy goodness? 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour works perfectly for this bread, but you can use bread flour for extra chewiness. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Yeast: Active dry yeast is what we’re using here, but you can swap it with instant yeast without changing the amount. Just add it directly with the flour!
Bacon: I love using smoked bacon for its flavor, but turkey bacon works as a lighter alternative. For a vegetarian option, you can use cooked mushrooms or skip it altogether.
Olives: Black olives add a nice briny flavor, but green olives or Kalamata olives will give a different taste. If you don’t like olives, you can replace them with sun-dried tomatoes!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great bite, but feel free to mix it up with mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for some heat. Just make sure it melts well!
How Do I Get the Dough to Rise Perfectly?
Getting a good rise is essential for soft, fluffy bread. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your yeast is fresh. If it doesn’t foam in the warm milk, it might be dead.
- Find a warm spot in your kitchen. A turned-off oven with the light on is usually ideal.
- Cover the bowl with a damp towel. This keeps moisture in and helps the dough rise better.
Remember, if the dough doesn’t double in size, it may need more time or a warmer environment. Patience is key!
How to Make Savory Olive Bacon Cheese Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
For the Filling:
- 3/4 cup cooked bacon, chopped (about 6 slices)
- 1 cup pitted black olives, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- Optional: 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
Optional Seasoning:
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes for prep and approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes in total (including rising and baking time). You’ll have delicious homemade bread ready to enjoy in just a bit over two hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let this sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This shows that your yeast is active and ready to help your bread rise!
2. Make the Dough:
Add the softened butter, salt, and about 3 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix everything together until a soft dough forms. Then, gradually add the remaining flour (up to 1/2 cup more) while kneading the dough. Aim for a smooth and elastic texture, but keep it slightly sticky.
3. Rise the Dough:
Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and place it in a warm spot. Let the dough rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This is where the magic happens!
4. Prepare the Fillings:
While the dough is rising, cook the bacon until crispy and then chop it into small pieces. Slice the olives and shred your cheese of choice. Set these aside until the dough is ready.
5. Shape the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle, approximately 12×16 inches.
6. Add the Good Stuff:
Evenly sprinkle the chopped bacon, sliced olives, and shredded cheese over the rolled-out dough. If using, add the dried oregano or Italian seasoning for added flavor!
7. Roll It Up:
Carefully roll the dough tightly from the longer edge into a log shape. Pinch the seams to seal it well. Place the roll, seam-side down, into a greased loaf pan, or on a parchment-lined baking sheet if you prefer a free-form loaf.
8. Second Rise:
Cover the dough and let it rise again for about 30-40 minutes until puffy. It’s getting close to baking time!
9. Preheat and Brush:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the top of the loaf with it for a shiny, golden crust. You can also brush with olive oil if you’d like!
10. Bake the Bread:
Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
11. Cool and Enjoy:
Once baked, allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing. This bread is fantastic warm or at room temperature, perfect as a snack, a sandwich base, or served alongside soups and salads!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Gluten-Free Flour?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check that it contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with the structure.
How Do I Store Leftover Bread?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer shelf life, you can freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Bacon?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon for a vegetarian version or substitute it with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or artichoke hearts for added flavor without meat.
How Can I Make the Bread More Flavorful?
Experiment with different cheeses or add herbs like fresh rosemary or thyme to the dough for an extra layer of flavor. You can also mix in some grated garlic or sun-dried tomatoes with the filling!
