This bread is a tasty mix of olives, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese. It’s perfect for snacking or as a side dish at dinner!
Who could resist warm, cheesy bread? I like to enjoy it fresh from the oven, with a little butter on top. You won’t want to share this one! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of the bread. If you want a gluten-free option, try a gluten-free all-purpose baking mix. I usually stick with regular flour for that classic texture.
Active Dry Yeast: Necessary for the bread to rise. If you’re out, you can use instant yeast instead—just mix it straight into the flour without dissolving it first.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using smoked tempeh or mushrooms to give a smoky taste.
Olives: Both black and green olives work well. For a twist, try sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers instead. They add a nice tang!
Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. Goat cheese or feta can also be delicious substitutions, offering a different taste profile.
What’s the Best Way to Knead Dough?
Kneading is vital for developing gluten, which gives your bread structure. Here’s how to do it right:
- Flour your surface and your hands lightly to prevent sticking.
- Press down on the dough with the heels of your hands, then fold it over itself.
- Give it a quarter turn and repeat for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and stretchy. You want a soft dough that springs back when poked.
If the dough feels too sticky, add a bit more flour as you knead. Just be careful not to add too much!
How to Make Savory Olive Bacon and Cheese Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
For the Fillings:
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
- 1 cup black or green olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
For the Topping:
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time (mixing, kneading, and preparing fillings), followed by around 2 to 2.5 hours of rising time (including both rises). Baking takes about 30–35 minutes. So, overall, set aside about 3 to 3.5 hours to create this delicious bread, though most of that time is waiting for the dough to rise!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yeast:
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step wakes up the yeast!
2. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Once the yeast is ready, add it to the flour mixture along with the warm milk and olive oil. Stir everything together until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. You want it to be smooth and elastic. Don’t rush this step—it really helps the texture!
4. Let It Rise:
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is where the magic happens!
5. Prepare the Fillings:
While the dough is rising, cook the bacon until crisp, then chop it. Slice the olives and shred your cheese so everything is ready to go.
6. Punch Down the Dough:
When the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface again.
7. Add the Fillings:
Flatten the dough gently into a rectangle. Now sprinkle the chopped bacon, sliced olives, shredded cheese, and optional oregano evenly over the surface.
8. Incorporate the Fillings:
Fold the dough over and knead gently just enough to mix everything together. Be careful not to overwork it—it should still have some nice chunks of filling!
9. Shape the Bread:
Shape the dough into a loaf. You can place it in a greased loaf pan or form it into a round shape and put it on a baking sheet.
10. Second Rise:
Cover the formed loaf and let it rise again for about 30–45 minutes until it looks puffy. This helps it get a good texture when baked.
11. Preheat the Oven:
While your dough rises, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Get that heat ready for your bread!
12. Egg Wash:
Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the top of the loaf. This will give it a lovely golden color.
13. Bake the Bread:
Place your loaf in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. The bread should have a beautiful golden color and sound hollow when you tap it on the bottom.
14. Cool and Slice:
Once done, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Wait a bit before slicing so you don’t squish the bread!
Enjoy your homemade savory olive bacon and cheese bread warm or at room temperature! It’s great as a snack or alongside your favorite soup or salad. Happy baking! 🍞
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is a great choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or even a combination for added flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses melt differently.
Is It Possible to Make This Bread Without Bacon?
Yes! If you’d like a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for a similar savory flavor without the meat. You could also add more olives or cheese to enhance the taste.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 2 months. To enjoy, just thaw and reheat it in the oven!
Can I Prep the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before the second rise and shaping. This process can actually enhance the flavor of the bread!
