Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread Recipe

If you’re searching for an unforgettable appetizer or a crowd-pleasing accompaniment to your next meal, this Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This loaf steals the show every time, studded with salty olives, smoky bacon, and gooey pockets of cheese—each bite is deliciously savory with just the right hint of rustic charm!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple pantry staples get a major upgrade in this Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread Recipe, but each ingredient truly earns its spot! Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need, and how each element brings unique flavor, texture, and color to every glorious bite.

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread, delivering soft structure but enough body for all those tasty mix-ins.
• Active dry yeast: Lifts the loaf with airy bubbles—make sure it’s fresh for the best rise!
• Sugar: Just a touch to feed the yeast and balance the savory flavors.
• Salt: Essential for rounding out the flavors and bringing all the ingredients together.
• Lukewarm water: Activates the yeast and creates a supple dough—warm, but not hot, is key.
• Olive oil: Gives a hint of richness and keeps the crumb moist and tender.
• Pitted green or Kalamata olives: Their briny punch is absolutely addictive (and totally customizable to your preference).
• Cooked bacon: Adds smoky, savory depth and a little crunch with every bite.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (or your choice): Melts throughout the loaf for irresistible gooey bits and cheesy flavor.
• Fresh rosemary (optional): Just a spoonful brings bright, herbal fragrance (highly recommended if you have it!).
• Egg, beaten: An egg wash creates that golden, glossy bakery-shop crust.

Variations

The beauty of this Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread Recipe is just how easy it is to adapt to suit whatever’s in your fridge—or to fit your flavor cravings! Don’t hesitate to make it your own by trying new mix-ins or tailoring it to suit dietary needs.

• Change the Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, smoked gouda, fontina, or even a sharp Swiss for a fun cheesy twist.
• Go Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and try adding sun-dried tomatoes, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers instead.
• Spice It Up: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or black pepper for a little heat.
• Whole Wheat Variation: Substitute up to half of the flour with whole wheat to add nuttiness and a touch more nutrition.

How to Make Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center, pour in the lukewarm water and olive oil, and mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. This sets the stage for a tender, flavorful loaf—so don’t rush this first mix!

Step 2: Knead Until Smooth

Turn the dough out onto a floured countertop and knead for about 8–10 minutes, working until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in a touch more flour, but be careful not to overdo it—moist dough makes fluffier bread.

Step 3: First Rise

Pop your kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about an hour or until doubled. Watching it puff up is always so satisfying—this is when the real magic begins with the Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread Recipe.

Step 4: Mix in Olives, Bacon, and Cheese

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and turn it out onto your countertop. Sprinkle in the chopped olives, crispy bacon, cheese, and rosemary if you’re using it, then knead and fold until all the savory goodness is evenly distributed throughout the dough. It’ll feel a bit studded and bumpy—just how it should!

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

Shape the dough into a loaf and settle it into a well-greased pan, or form it rustic-style on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover lightly and let it rise for another 30 minutes. This step ensures those gorgeous bakery-style air pockets inside.

Step 6: Preheat Oven and Brush with Egg Wash

About 15 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Right before it goes in, brush the top of your loaf with beaten egg for that mouthwatering glossy crust.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the bread is a deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped underneath. Your kitchen will smell phenomenal—irresistibly savory, cheesy, and cozy all at once.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Let your Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread Recipe cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This wait is tough, but it ensures the flavors settle and the crumb stays tender.

How to Serve Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra finishing touch, sprinkle the freshly baked bread with a pinch of flaky sea salt or a few chopped fresh herbs (like rosemary or parsley). This brightens the crust and adds an elegant flair that guests will notice—and love!

Side Dishes

This Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread Recipe makes a sensational partner for so many side dishes! Pair slices with creamy tomato soup, a crisp green salad, or a hearty chili. It’s also fabulous as a savory breakfast with a softly cooked egg on top.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful! Cube the bread and serve as the base for an epic cheese board, make mini sandwiches with roasted veggies, or slice thin and toast for savory crostini. A basket of warm slices at the center of your table is always an invitation to linger and enjoy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your bread cool fully before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or beeswax wrap. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or pop it in the fridge if your kitchen runs especially warm. The flavors deepen and the crumb stays just as irresistible!

Freezing

This Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread Recipe freezes beautifully. Once cooled, slice the bread (so you can grab a piece at a time), then wrap it securely in foil and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw slices as needed for meals, snacks, or impromptu gatherings.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked magic, toast individual slices in the oven at 350°F for 5–8 minutes or in a toaster oven. You’ll get melty cheese again and that dreamy aroma—so much better than microwaving!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to experience the irresistible pull of this Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread Recipe—it’s comfort food at its most delightful. It smells like a little moment of celebration in your kitchen, and it tastes even better. Don’t be surprised if this loaf disappears in record time—share it with friends, family, or just treat yourself to an extra slice.

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