You’re in for a treat! “Olive, bacon, and cheese bread” is a fantastic savory combination. While there isn’t one single “official” recipe, the search results show there are two delicious and popular ways to make it. You can choose the one that best fits your time and skill level.
Here is a quick comparison to help you decide which path to take.
Feature Classic Yeasted Loaf Quick Bread (No Yeast)
Best For Traditional bread lovers who enjoy the process of baking and a classic, airy texture . Bakers of all levels looking for a fast, foolproof, and equally delicious option .
Key Ingredients Flour, yeast, water, olive oil, olives, bacon, cheese . Flour (often with baking powder), eggs, milk/oil, olives, bacon, cheese .
Texture Light, fluffy, and chewy with the mix-ins distributed throughout . Denser, moist, and more like a hearty loaf cake or muffin in texture .
Total Time ~2 hours (requires rising time) . ~1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes (mix and bake immediately) .
Difficulty Intermediate (requires kneading and understanding yeast) . Easy (just mix wet and dry ingredients) .
🥖 Classic Yeasted Loaf
This method yields a traditional, fluffy loaf with a beautiful golden crust. The yeast gives the bread its characteristic airy crumb and chewy texture, making it perfect for tearing and sharing .
· The Ingredients:
· 3 cups all-purpose flour
· 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
· 1 tsp sugar
· 1 tsp salt
· 1 cup lukewarm water
· 2 tbsp olive oil
· ½ – ¾ cup pitted olives (green, Kalamata, or a mix), roughly chopped
· 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
· 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
· Optional: 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, 1 beaten egg for egg wash
· The Method:
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Make a well, pour in lukewarm water and olive oil, and mix until a shaggy dough forms .
- Knead: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic . (A stand mixer with a dough hook can also be used.)
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size .
- Add the Mix-Ins: Punch down the dough to release air. Gently knead in the chopped olives, crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and rosemary (if using) until evenly distributed .
- Shape and Second Rise: Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan (or shape it into a round on a baking sheet). Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes .
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If desired, brush the top with beaten egg for a shiny, golden crust . Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom .
- Cool: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing .
🍞 Quick Bread (No Yeast)
This version is for when you want incredible flavor with minimal effort. By using baking powder instead of yeast, there is no kneading or rising time required. You simply mix and bake .
· The Ingredients:
· 2 cups all-purpose flour
· 1 tbsp baking powder
· ½ – 1 tsp salt
· Optional: ½ tsp black pepper or garlic powder
· 2 large eggs
· ½ – ⅔ cup milk (or buttermilk)
· ¼ – ⅓ cup olive oil or vegetable oil
· ½ – 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
· 1 cup pitted olives, sliced
· 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
· The Method:
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan .
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and any spices you’re using .
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then whisk in the milk and oil until smooth .
- Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay .
- Add Flavor: Gently fold in the chopped bacon, sliced olives, and shredded cheese until evenly distributed .
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean .
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely .
💡 Tips for the Best Savory Bread
· Don’t Overmix (Quick Bread): For a tender quick bread, mix the batter only until the dry ingredients are moistened. Overmixing develops the gluten and can make the bread tough .
· Flavor Combinations: Feel free to experiment! Try adding sun-dried tomatoes, caramelized onions, or different herbs like thyme or oregano . You can also swap the cheddar for Gruyère, mozzarella, or feta .
· Storage: Both breads can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze for up to 2 months .
I hope this helps you bake a delicious loaf! Which type of bread are you thinking of trying? I can help you with more details if you decide on one.