Bacon Cheese Braid
A savory bacon and cheese braid with a soft, fluffy texture, perfect for breakfast or brunch, combining rich flavors of cheese, bacon, and onions in a delightful pastry.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scald the milk and add sugar, salt, margarine, and beaten eggs; let it cool.
- Dissolve yeast in 1/2 cup warm water.
- Add the yeast mixture to the cooled milk mixture.
- Add 4 cups of flour and stir well.
- Add the remaining flour gradually until the dough is workable.
- Knead on a floured board for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and turn to coat.
- Cover and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
- Punch down the dough and let it rise again for 30 to 45 minutes.
- Shape half the dough as desired, such as a loaf or rolls.
- Incorporate chopped stuffed olives, chopped onions, crumbled bacon, and grated cheese into the dough or as filling before shaping.
- Bake at an appropriate temperature until golden brown and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can substitute the cheese with your favorite varieties, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for different tastes. If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and add extra olives or vegetables. Make sure the milk is not too hot when combined with yeast to avoid killing it.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bacon cheese braid warm as a delightful appetizer or side dish. It pairs beautifully with Green Beans With Rosemary for a fresh contrast. You can also serve it along with Bacon Olive Dip for a delicious snack spread. This dish is perfect for gatherings or as part of a brunch menu.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bacon cheese braid in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore its crispiness. Alternatively, you can microwave individual pieces for about 30 seconds but note that this may make the bread softer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon Cheese Braid contains roughly 1140 calories, with 28g protein, 156g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (57% of the Daily Value), iron (41% of the Daily Value), and calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the bacon cheese braid?
Yes, you can freeze the baked braid. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?
A combination of cheeses works best; cheddar adds a sharp flavor, while mozzarella provides a nice stretch. You could also experiment with gouda or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just ensure the total amount of cheese remains around 1 3/4 cups for the best results.
How do I know when the braid is done baking?
The braid is done when it turns a golden brown color and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) can also be a good indicator. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing to maintain its structure.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).