Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread Recipe

There’s something irresistibly cozy about fresh, homemade bread that’s packed with bold flavors — and this Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread Recipe hits all those notes perfectly. It’s a delightful marriage of salty olives, smoky bacon, and melty cheese all tucked into a warm, soft loaf that will quickly become your new favorite comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays its part — from the all-purpose flour providing structure to the cheese and bacon delivering that irresistible melty, smoky flavor.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation for our bread, providing structure and a soft crumb.
• Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise and develop that lovely, fluffy texture.
• Sugar: Just a touch to feed the yeast and enhance browning of the crust.
• Salt: Balances flavors and strengthens the dough.
• Lukewarm water: Activates the yeast without killing it, crucial for a good rise.
• Olive oil: Adds moisture and a subtle richness to the dough.
• Pitted green or Kalamata olives: For a tangy, briny pop throughout the bread.
• Cooked bacon: Crumbled to deliver smoky, savory bites in every slice.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly inside, adding gooey creaminess and sharpness.
• Fresh rosemary (optional): Gives a fragrant herbal note that complements the other flavors.
• Egg (for egg wash): Creates a shiny, golden crust that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

Variations

One of the best things about this Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread Recipe is how easy it is to tweak to suit your cravings or pantry supplies. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!

• Cheese Swap: Try sharp gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different cheesy flair.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers instead.
• Herb Twist: Experiment with thyme, oregano, or basil if you don’t have rosemary on hand.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle kick.

How to Make Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the center and pour in the lukewarm water and olive oil. Stir gently until everything comes together into a rough dough — this is the beginning of something delicious!

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Flour your surface and knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, working it until it feels smooth and elastic. This step builds gluten, so don’t rush — it’s key to getting that perfect bread texture. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a little flour as you go.

Step 3: First Rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it up with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest in a warm spot for about an hour. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s doubled in size — think of it as your dough’s beauty sleep.

Step 4: Add the Flavorful Extras

After the dough has risen, gently punch it down and knead in the chopped olives, crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and rosemary if you’re using it. Spread these treasures evenly throughout so every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

Shape your dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan or free-form it on a baking sheet. Cover it again and give it a final 30 minutes to puff up, getting ready to bake into golden perfection.

Step 6: Preheat Oven & Apply Egg Wash

While your dough does its final rising, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, brush the loaf with beaten egg — this little trick helps develop a gorgeous, shiny crust that will make your bread look utterly irresistible.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake your bread for about 25-30 minutes, until it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom and the crust boasts a warm golden brown color. This is the moment your kitchen will start smelling heavenly!

Step 8: Cool Before Enjoying

Patience is a virtue! Let the bread cool on a wire rack so it finishes setting up perfectly. Once cooled, slice and savor the melty, savory goodness within.

How to Serve Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread Recipe

Garnishes

Serve slices with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a pop of color and complementary aroma. A light brush of melted butter on warm slices adds an extra touch of indulgence, making each bite glow with richness.

Side Dishes

This flavorful bread pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting meal. It also makes a fantastic accompaniment to charcuterie boards, adding savory depth alongside cheeses, nuts, and fruits.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, slice the loaf into thick pieces and arrange on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of olive tapenade, honey butter, or hummus. Cutting into bite-sized cubes also makes for perfect party finger food – maybe with toothpicks to keep things neat and charming!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It should stay deliciously soft for up to 2 days at room temperature — perfect for quick snacks or sandwiches.

Freezing

This Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread Recipe freezes beautifully! Slice the bread, wrap each piece in plastic wrap and foil, then pop into a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months, ready to thaw when you want that comforting, fresh-baked feeling.

Reheating

To revive your bread’s fresh-from-the-oven warmth, pop slices in a toaster or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes. This melts the cheese back into creamy perfection and crisps the crust just right.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread Recipe is one of those dishes that brings a little joy into your day, whether for breakfast, a snack, or dinner accompaniment. It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and surprisingly simple to make. Trust me, once you bake this, you’ll be reaching for the recipe again and again — and sharing with everyone you love!

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