Cheese-Onion-Bacon Bread
A savory bread packed with sharp Cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and minced onion, perfect for breakfast or any casual gathering, offering rich flavors and a hearty texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in 1/2 cup warm water.
- Add warm milk, sugar, salt, and margarine; stir in 2 cups flour and beat until smooth.
- Add 1 more cup of flour and beat until smooth.
- Stir in grated cheese, crumbled bacon, and minced onion.
- Gradually add remaining 2 1/2 to 3 cups flour, making a soft dough.
- Place dough on a floured board, cover, and let rest for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Knead for 10 minutes until smooth and blistered.
- Place in a warm area to rise until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, let rise again, then divide into 2 loaves and place in greased bread pans.
- Cover and let rise again until nearly doubled.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until golden and done.
- Remove from pans immediately after baking.
- Brush the tops with melted butter and cool on racks.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fluffier texture, ensure your milk and water are not too hot when activating the yeast; around 110°F is ideal. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought bacon bits instead of frying your own. To add depth, consider mixing in herbs like rosemary or thyme. If you prefer a different cheese, Gruyère or mozzarella can be excellent substitutes for the Cheddar.
Serving Suggestions
This savory bread makes a fantastic accompaniment to soups, particularly Hearty Tomato-Bean Soup, or as part of a brunch spread. Serve warm with butter or alongside a fresh salad for a satisfying meal. It also pairs beautifully with dishes like California Pork Kabobs for a delicious combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese-onion-bacon bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply toast slices in a toaster or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese-Onion-Bacon Bread contains roughly 1047 calories, with 32g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value), protein (65% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin D. 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 use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for up to half of the all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. However, you may need to adjust the liquid slightly, as whole wheat absorbs more moisture.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it's golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, you can use a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach about 190°F to ensure it's fully cooked.
What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and properly activated with warm water. If the kitchen is too cold, try placing the dough in a warmer area, such as near a preheated oven, to encourage rising.
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).