Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread
Introduction
Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread is a savory artisan-style loaf that combines the rich, smoky flavor of crispy bacon, the salty bite of olives, and the creamy goodness of melted cheese. Every slice offers a delicious balance of textures—from the soft, fluffy crumb to the crispy golden crust. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, picnics, soup pairings, or as an appetizer, this bread is satisfying enough to enjoy on its own.
Whether served warm from the oven or lightly toasted the next day, this homemade bread fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma and delivers bakery-quality results with simple ingredients.
History
Savory breads have been enjoyed for centuries across Europe. Mediterranean countries such as Italy, Greece, and France have long incorporated olives into bread recipes thanks to abundant olive harvests. Bacon became a popular addition in Northern Europe, while cheese has been a beloved bread ingredient throughout countless regional cuisines.
The modern Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread combines these traditional ingredients into one flavorful loaf that has become popular in bakeries and home kitchens alike. It reflects rustic European baking traditions while offering endless possibilities for customization.
Why You’ll Love This Bread
- Soft and fluffy interior
- Crispy golden crust
- Rich smoky bacon flavor
- Salty Mediterranean olives
- Gooey melted cheese in every bite
- Excellent for sandwiches
- Perfect with soups and salads
- Great for meal prep
- Freezes beautifully
- Easy enough for beginner bakers
Preparation Information
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Rising Time: 1½–2 hours
Bake Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: About 3 hours
Servings: 10–12 slices
Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
Approximate values:
- Calories: 285 kcal
- Protein: 11 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 560 mg
- Calcium: 18% Daily Value
- Iron: 10% Daily Value
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 4 cups (500 g) bread flour
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1¼ cups warm water (110°F / 43°C)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large egg
Filling
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¾ cup sliced black olives
- ¼ cup sliced green olives
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
Optional topping:
- Extra cheese
- Sesame seeds
- Fresh rosemary
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Dough scraper
- Loaf pan or baking sheet
- Pastry brush
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Mix warm water, sugar, and yeast.
Allow to sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Combine flour and salt.
Add:
- Yeast mixture
- Olive oil
- Egg
Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 3: First Rise
Place dough in an oiled bowl.
Cover with a towel.
Allow to rise for 60–90 minutes until doubled.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
Cook bacon until crispy.
Drain excess fat.
Mix together:
- Bacon
- Cheddar
- Mozzarella
- Olives
- Parmesan
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- Pepper
- Parsley
Step 5: Shape the Bread
Punch down the dough.
Roll into a rectangle.
Spread filling evenly.
Roll tightly into a loaf.
Seal the edges.
Place into a greased loaf pan.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover loosely.
Let rise for another 30–45 minutes.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush with egg wash.
Top with additional cheese if desired.
Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown.
Internal temperature should reach 190–200°F (88–93°C).
Step 8: Cool
Allow bread to cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Baking Methods
Traditional Oven
Produces a beautifully crisp crust and soft interior.
Dutch Oven
Creates artisan-style bread with extra crustiness.
Bread Machine
Use the dough cycle, then shape, rise, and bake in the oven.
Cast Iron Skillet
Creates rustic edges and a chewy crust.
Expert Tips
- Dry olives thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
- Cook bacon until crisp for the best texture.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for superior melting.
- Avoid overfilling to prevent leaks.
- Let the bread cool before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Add herbs such as thyme, oregano, or rosemary for extra flavor.
Flavor Variations
Mediterranean
Add:
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Feta cheese
- Fresh basil
Spicy
Mix in:
- Jalapeños
- Pepper Jack cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Herb Garden
Add:
- Rosemary
- Thyme
- Chives
Garlic Lover
Include roasted garlic and extra Parmesan.
Breakfast Style
Add scrambled eggs and diced ham.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Tomato soup
- Creamy potato soup
- Caesar salad
- Scrambled eggs
- Charcuterie boards
- Pasta dishes
- Grilled chicken
- Roasted vegetables
- Butter or herb cream cheese
Storage
Room temperature:
- Up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Refrigerator:
- Up to 5 days.
Freezer:
- Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using water that is too hot, which can kill the yeast.
- Adding wet olives without draining them.
- Under-kneading the dough.
- Slicing while the bread is still hot.
- Overbaking, which can dry out the loaf.
- Overstuffing with filling, causing it to burst open.
Why People Love Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread
Food lovers appreciate this bread because it combines comforting homemade baking with bold, savory flavors. The smoky bacon, tangy olives, and melted cheese create a satisfying loaf that works for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or entertaining. Its versatility, hearty texture, and irresistible aroma make it a favorite for family meals, holiday gatherings, and casual get-togethers.
Conclusion
Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread is a flavorful homemade loaf that transforms everyday ingredients into something truly special. With its soft crumb, crispy crust, and rich combination of bacon, olives, and cheese, it is both comforting and elegant. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven, toasted for breakfast, or served alongside soups and salads, this bread is sure to become a cherished recipe that friends and family will request again and again.