This warm, tasty bread is packed with olives, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese. It’s perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own with a little butter! Yum!
I love to serve this bread fresh out of the oven with a side of soup. Trust me, the cheesiest bites are always the ones everyone fights over! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of the bread and gives it structure. You could use bread flour for a chewier texture. If you’re gluten-free, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend; just make sure it contains xanthan gum.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor. Turkey bacon can be a lighter option, and for a vegetarian twist, consider using chopped mushrooms or smoked tempeh.
Black Olives: They add a nice briny flavor. If you’re not a fan of olives, sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers work well as substitutes.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar enhances the flavor, but feel free to use mozzarella for a milder taste. Feta cheese offers a tangy twist that pairs nicely with olives.
Dried Oregano: I enjoy adding this for extra flavor. If you don’t have oregano, Italian seasoning or even a dash of garlic powder can work well.
How Do You Knead Dough Properly?
Kneading dough helps develop gluten, giving bread its chewy texture. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Start with a clean, lightly floured surface.
- Flatten the dough slightly with your hands. Fold it over itself, then push it down with the palms of your hands.
- Rotate the dough a quarter turn and repeat. Keep kneading for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, but don’t overdo it; too much flour can make the bread dry. Feel free to use a stand mixer with a dough hook for easier handling!
This kneading step is vital for achieving that lovely texture, so take your time with it. Happy baking!
Savory Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for greasing
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped (about 6 slices)
- 1/2 cup pitted black olives, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This savory bread recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 1 hour for the first rise, and 30 minutes for the second rise. Baking it takes another 25-30 minutes. So, you’re looking at a total of about 2 hours from start to finish, with most of that time being hands-off while the dough rises!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
Start by combining the warm water and sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means your yeast is active and ready to go!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. This will help evenly distribute the salt and give your bread a great flavor.
3. Combine Wet and Dry:
Once your yeast mixture is foamy, add it along with the olive oil into the flour mixture. Mix everything until a dough starts to form.
4. Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer, you can use it with a dough hook for easier mixing.
5. First Rise:
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size—this should take about 1 hour.
6. Prepare the Fillings:
While the dough is rising, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Drain it on paper towels and chop into small pieces. Slice the olives and shred the cheese.
7. Shape the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll or stretch the dough into a rectangle, roughly 12×10 inches.
8. Add the Fillings:
Evenly sprinkle the chopped bacon, olives, shredded cheese, and dried oregano over the surface of the dough.
9. Roll It Up:
Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log, pinching the seams to seal the edges and tucking the ends under.
10. Second Rise:
Place the rolled dough seam-side down on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it and allow it to rise for another 30 minutes until it’s slightly puffed.
11. Preheat the Oven:
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
12. Egg Wash and Bake:
Brush the top of the loaf with the beaten egg for a lovely golden crust. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
13. Cool and Serve:
Let the bread cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing. This delicious loaf can be served warm or at room temperature. Enjoy on its own or with soups and salads!
This bread is a perfect companion for any meal or can be enjoyed as a snack. Happy baking!
FAQ about Savory Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds a delicious flavor, feel free to use mozzarella for a milder taste, or feta for a tangy twist. You can even mix cheeses for a more complex flavor profile!
How Should I Store Leftover Bread?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Can I Make This Bread Without Yeast?
Yes! If you prefer a quicker version, you can make a quick bread using baking powder instead of yeast. Just mix all the ingredients, pour them into a loaf pan, and bake. The texture will be different but still delicious!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, or even spinach to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them finely to keep the bread from getting too wet.