This Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread is packed with flavor! Imagine crispy bacon, tangy olives, and melty cheese baked into soft bread—yum!
It’s perfect for snacks or as a side for meals. I love to serve it warm, and guess what? My friends always go back for seconds! Who could resist that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of your bread. If you’re out, you can use bread flour for extra chewiness or even whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. Just note that the dough may need a bit more water.
Active Dry Yeast: This gives the bread its rise. If you have instant yeast, you can use it directly without proofing it first. If you’re avoiding yeast altogether, try using baking powder instead, but the texture will differ.
Bacon: I like using thick-cut bacon for more flavor. For a lighter option, turkey bacon works too! You can also use cooked sausage or leave out the meat for a vegetarian version.
Olives: Black olives are my favorite for their rich flavor, but green olives add a nice tang. If you don’t like olives, sun-dried tomatoes could give a delicious twist while keeping the bread savory.
Cheese: I recommend a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for flavor and stretchiness. You can use feta for a crumbly texture or a dairy-free cheese if you’re vegan.
How Do I Knead Dough Effectively?
Kneading dough is important for developing gluten, which helps create a nice structure in your bread. Follow these simple steps:
- Turn your dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Push the dough away from you with the heel of your hand.
- Fold it over itself, then rotate it a quarter turn.
- Repeat this process for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Don’t rush this step! If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much. The more you knead, the better the final texture!
Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread for Savory Flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup pitted olives, sliced (black or green, or mix)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- Optional: 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prep and around 2 hours for the rising, plus an additional 30-35 minutes for baking. It’s easy to follow, and you’ll end up with a delicious and hearty bread that’s perfect for sharing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
Start by taking a small bowl and mixing the warm water, sugar, and yeast together. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is active and ready to work its magic!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and if you like, the optional oregano or Italian seasoning. This will add extra flavor to your bread.
3. Combine and Form the Dough:
Pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix everything together until a soft, sticky dough forms. If it’s too sticky, you can add a little more flour.
4. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. Keep folding and pushing the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. It should feel lovely and springy.
5. First Rise:
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1 ½ hours or until it doubles in size. This is where the magic happens!
6. Mix in the Goodies:
Once doubled, punch down the dough to release the air and gently fold in the chopped bacon, sliced olives, and shredded cheese. This is the fun part! Make sure everything is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Shape and Prepare for Second Rise:
Shape your dough into a loaf or round shape, and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it again and let it rest for another 30 minutes to rise slightly.
8. Preheat and Bake:
While the dough is resting, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your bread!
9. Bake the Bread:
Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes. It’s done when the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. You’ll know it’s perfect!
10. Cool and Serve:
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. This is the hardest part—waiting! Serve it warm or at room temperature, and enjoy your delicious Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread!
Bon Appétit! 🍞🥓🧀
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella are great choices, you can experiment with other cheeses such as gouda, provolone, or feta for a unique flavor twist. Just keep the total cheese amount around 1 ½ cups.
What Can I Substitute Instead of Bacon?
If you’re looking for a meat alternative, you can use chopped cooked sausage or turkey bacon. For a vegetarian option, try adding some sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store your leftover Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days, or you can refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze it in slices and thaw as needed!
Can I Make the Dough in Advance?
Yes, you can! After the first rise, punch down the dough and shape it as desired, then wrap it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, let it come to room temperature and rise again before baking.
