Delicious Olive Bacon and Cheese Bread for Cozy Moments

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this olive bacon and cheese bread! It’s one of those recipes that fills your kitchen with the most mouthwatering aroma, making everyone stop in their tracks and rush to see what’s baking. Seriously, the combination of briny olives, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering. My cousins were skeptical at first—“Olives in bread?” they said. But once they took that first bite, their eyes lit up, and I could see the wheels turning in their heads, wondering when they could get the recipe! It’s become a staple at our family get-togethers, and it’s so versatile—you can serve it warm alongside soups, slice it for a sandwich, or just tear off pieces and enjoy it as a snack. Trust me, you’ll want to make this bread again and again!

Ingredients List

To make my delicious olive bacon and cheese bread, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that pack a big punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll gather:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (make sure it’s not too hot, or it’ll kill the yeast!)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to help activate the yeast)
• 1 teaspoon salt (to enhance all those yummy flavors)
• 1/2 cup chopped olives (green or black, your choice, but I love Kalamata for that extra zing!)
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (because who can resist bacon?)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar is my go-to, but feel free to experiment with your favorites!)

Gathering these ingredients is half the fun, and trust me, the aroma of this bread baking will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?”

How to Prepare Olive Bacon and Cheese Bread

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making this savory olive bacon and cheese bread! Don’t worry; I’ll guide you through each step, and before you know it, you’ll have a golden loaf ready to impress. Ready? Let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First, take a bowl and combine 1 cup of warm water, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 packet of active dry yeast. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s frothy. This means your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
2. Once that’s bubbly, add in 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix it all together until a dough starts to form. You might need to use your hands here—get in there and feel the texture!
3. Now it’s time to knead the dough. Transfer it to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Trust me, this step is what makes the bread fluffy and delightful.
4. Next, incorporate those tasty 1/2 cup of chopped olives, 1/2 cup of crumbled bacon, and 1 cup of shredded cheese right into the dough. Fold them in gently, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. After that, place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour. You want it to double in size, which is always a rewarding sight!
6. Once it’s risen, punch it down gently to release the air, then shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf in a greased baking pan, cover it again, and let it rise for another 30 minutes—patience is key here!
7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). When the dough has puffed up nicely, pop it into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Lastly, let it cool before slicing. Trust me, the waiting is tough, but it’s worth it to enjoy those perfect slices!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously savory flavor from the combination of olives, bacon, and cheese.
• Simple and straightforward preparation—perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Versatile enough to serve as a side dish, sandwich base, or a tasty snack.
• Fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone gathering around.
• Great for meal prep; it tastes amazing warm or at room temperature.
• Customizable with your favorite cheeses or herbs for a personal touch.

Tips for Success

To make sure your olive bacon and cheese bread turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips! First, when kneading the dough, don’t rush it—take your time to develop that gluten. The smoother your dough, the better the texture of your bread will be!

If you find your dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour, but be careful not to overdo it. On the flip side, if it feels too dry, just a splash of warm water can help bring it back to life. And remember, every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on your bread as it bakes. If it’s browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil.

Lastly, feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra layer of flavor. This bread is all about making it your own, so have fun with it!

Variations

This olive bacon and cheese bread is incredibly versatile, so don’t hesitate to mix things up! For a twist on flavor, try using feta cheese instead of cheddar for a tangy kick, or go for a pepper jack if you like a bit of spice. You can also add in sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness or toss in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to elevate the taste even further. If you’re feeling adventurous, swap the bacon for chopped spinach or mushrooms for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional information for this delightful olive bacon and cheese bread. Each slice (about 1 serving) packs in approximately 200 calories, making it a satisfying addition to your meal. You’ll find 8g of fat, with 3g of that being saturated fat. It also contains 6g of protein and 28g of carbohydrates, along with 2g of fiber to keep things balanced. Plus, it has just 1g of sugar and 300mg of sodium. Keep in mind, these values are estimates, so feel free to adjust based on your ingredient choices and portion sizes!

FAQ Section

I know you might have some questions about this delicious olive bacon and cheese bread, so let’s tackle a few common ones!

Can I substitute the bacon? Absolutely! If you want a vegetarian option, you can use chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms for that savory touch.

What can I use instead of olives? If olives aren’t your thing, you could try sun-dried tomatoes or even roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.

How should I store leftovers? Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it if you want it to last a bit longer.

Can I freeze the bread? Yes! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and it’ll be good for up to 2 months. Thaw it at room temperature, and it’ll taste fresh!

How do I serve it? This bread is fantastic warm, but it’s also great at room temperature. Serve it with soup, slice it for sandwiches, or enjoy it on its own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your olive bacon and cheese bread fresh and tasty, let it cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It’ll stay good at room temperature for about 3 days. If you want to extend its life, pop it in the fridge for up to a week.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, I recommend reheating individual slices in a toaster oven for that perfect crispy crust. Just a few minutes should do the trick! Alternatively, you can wrap the whole loaf in foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes. This will help revive that delicious texture and flavor!

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