Irresistible Olive Bacon and Cheese Bread Recipe

Name: Irresistible Olive Bacon and Cheese Bread Recipe – Savory and Flavorful
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup lukewarm water; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 cup pitted green or Kalamata olives, roughly chopped; 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (optional); 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Posted on June 28, 2025 · [Elisa]

Breads

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If you’re looking for a savory bread that’s packed with flavor and sure to impress, look no further than Olive Bacon and Cheese Bread! This homemade bread recipe combines the richness of crispy bacon, the tanginess of olives, and the creaminess of melted cheddar cheese, making it the perfect addition to any meal. Whether served as a side with dinner or enjoyed on its own, this bread is guaranteed to be a hit with your family and friends.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make this delicious bread, offer some tips for success, and suggest ways to customize it to suit your tastes.

Why You’ll Love Olive Bacon and Cheese Bread

This Olive Bacon and Cheese Bread stands out for several reasons:

Savory Flavor Profile: The combination of crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and olives creates a wonderfully savory bread that’s far from ordinary.
Perfect for Any Meal: Whether you’re serving it as a side to soups, salads, or pasta dishes, or enjoying it as a stand-alone snack, this bread works for any occasion.
Homemade Goodness: There’s something truly satisfying about homemade bread. The smell of it baking in the oven is enough to make anyone’s mouth water!

If you enjoy savory baked goods, you may also love Cheddar Bay Biscuit Ground Beef Cobbler or Garlic Herb Braided Bread.

Ingredients for Olive Bacon and Cheese Bread

To make this Olive Bacon and Cheese Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the bread.
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast – Helps the bread rise and gives it a light, airy texture.
1 tsp sugar – Feeds the yeast and promotes rising.
1 tsp salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the bread.
1 cup lukewarm water – Activates the yeast and helps bring the dough together.
2 tbsp olive oil – Adds richness and a subtle flavor to the dough.
1/2 cup pitted green or Kalamata olives, roughly chopped – Provides a briny, savory flavor.
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled – Adds a smoky richness to the bread.
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your choice of cheese) – Provides melt-in-your-mouth creaminess.
1 tbsp fresh rosemary (optional) – For an herbal touch and added depth of flavor.
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) – Creates a golden, shiny crust.

If you’re a fan of savory treats, you’ll also love Cheddar Garlic Bread or Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan.

How to Make Olive Bacon and Cheese Bread

Making this Olive Bacon and Cheese Bread is a simple process that yields a flavorful, homemade loaf. Here’s how to make it step by step:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients, and pour in the lukewarm water and olive oil. Mix until a rough dough forms. If the dough seems too sticky, you can add a bit more flour until it comes together.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough sticks to your hands, sprinkle a little flour as needed.

For another bread recipe, try our Easy Creamy Lemon Chicken that pairs wonderfully with freshly baked bread.

Step 3: First Rise

Place the dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. The yeast will work its magic, creating a light and airy dough.

Step 4: Mix in the Goodies

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and gently knead in the olives, bacon, cheese, and rosemary (if using). Make sure everything is evenly distributed throughout the dough for a consistent flavor.

If you’re a fan of cheese, you may also like our Spinach Mushroom Ricotta Zucchini Boats!

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

Shape the dough into a loaf and place it into a greased loaf pan, or form it into a rustic shape and place it on a baking sheet. Cover the dough and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your bread to bake perfectly.

Step 7: Egg Wash

Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg to create a golden, glossy crust. This step is optional but adds a beautiful shine to your finished bread.

Step 8: Bake

Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom and the crust is golden brown. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the delicious scent of freshly baked bread!

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing. This gives the bread time to set, ensuring that each slice comes out perfectly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Slice it Right: Use a serrated knife to slice the bread, as this helps avoid squishing the loaf.
Pair it with Soups and Salads: This savory bread pairs beautifully with Cucumber Shrimp Salad or a hearty Hearty Ground Beef Orzo.
Make it a Snack: Serve it with Cheese Log or Pineapple Whip Soft Serve for an irresistible snack platter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Kneading Enough: Be sure to knead the dough for the full 8-10 minutes to ensure it becomes smooth and elastic.
Not Allowing Enough Rising Time: Let the dough rise until it doubles in size to ensure you get a light, fluffy loaf.
Skipping the Egg Wash: While optional, the egg wash adds a golden and glossy finish to the bread. Don’t skip it!

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftover bread, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply wrap it in foil and bake at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this bread without bacon?
Yes! If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can skip the bacon and still enjoy the olives and cheese for a rich flavor.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is delicious, you can swap it for other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.

3. Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?
Yes! You can use a bread machine to mix and knead the dough, but make sure to add the olives, bacon, and cheese manually after the first rise.

Conclusion

This Olive Bacon and Cheese Bread is the perfect combination of savory flavors and rich textures. The smoky bacon, briny olives, and creamy cheese come together to create a mouthwatering loaf that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you serve it at a party, with dinner, or as a snack, this bread is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

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