Ham 'N' Swiss Loaf(In Honor Of Fern Hedgewood)
A savory bread filled with ham, Swiss cheese, and dill pickles, twisted into an eye-catching loaf perfect for brunch or casual gatherings, offering a delightful mix of flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Set aside 1 cup of flour; mix remaining 3 cups of flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- Heat water, Dijon mustard, and margarine to 125° to 130° F; stir into the flour mixture.
- Mix in enough reserved flour to make a soft dough.
- Knead the dough for 4 minutes.
- On a greased baking sheet, roll the dough to 14 x 12 inches.
- Sprinkle chopped ham, shredded Swiss cheese, and chopped dill pickle down the center third of the dough lengthwise.
- Make cuts from the filling to the edges of the dough at 1-inch intervals along both sides of the filling.
- Bring the strips from opposite sides of the filling together; twist and place the ends at an angle across the filling; cover and let rise.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder to the dough or using spicy mustard instead of Dijon. If you don't have RapidRise yeast, regular active dry yeast works too—just allow for longer rising times. To enhance the texture, try incorporating some whole wheat flour into the mix for added nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ham 'N' Swiss Loaf warm, sliced, with a side of pickles or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. This savory loaf pairs beautifully with Aunt Elsie'S Cocoa for a comforting finish. For a more substantial meal, consider adding a bowl of hearty soup like tomato or potato.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice the loaf and warm it in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through, ensuring the crust remains crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham 'N' Swiss Loaf(In Honor Of Fern Hedgewood) contains roughly 1844 calories, with 45g protein, 208g carbohydrates, and 95g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (112% of the Daily Value), protein (89% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (49% of the Daily Value). 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 Ham 'N' Swiss Loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the loaf after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and it will last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for the best texture.
What can I use instead of ham?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the ham with sautéed mushrooms or a variety of roasted vegetables. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken for a different flavor profile while keeping it meaty.
How do I know when the loaf is done baking?
The loaf is done when it is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of 190°F is also a good indicator of doneness. If you want a crispy crust, you can place a pan of water in the oven while it bakes to create steam.
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).