Hearth Bread
Hearty hearth bread layered with Swiss cheese, bacon, and a savory butter mixture, perfect for sharing and enjoyed warm with a crispy crust and rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together butter, poppy seed, and prepared mustard.
- Butter between sourdough slices; save some butter for the outside of the bread.
- Place a Swiss cheese slice between each sourdough slice.
- Use remaining butter and put half a strip of bacon on top of each slice.
- Place the assembled bread on foil but keep the top open.
- Put the foil on a cookie sheet and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
- Pull apart to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using flavored mustards such as honey mustard or spicy brown mustard. If you don't have poppy seeds, sesame seeds can be a great alternative. Ensure the butter is softened for easy spreading. For a crispier texture, bake the bread longer, keeping an eye on it to avoid burning. This dish is perfect for gatherings, similar to American recipes like Bite-Size Bacon Quiche.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious Hearth Bread as an appetizer or party snack alongside a fresh salad or some crispy chips. It pairs beautifully with No Mayo Macaroni Salad for a complete meal. For an extra kick, serve with a side of spicy dipping sauce or a tangy relish to complement the savory flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps maintain the bread's texture and prevents it from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearth Bread contains roughly 59 calories, with 3g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium.
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 a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese adds a nice flavor, you can substitute it with Gruyère, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist. Each type of cheese will give a different taste to the dish, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the bacon and substituting it with grilled vegetables or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and flavor. You can also use a plant-based butter to keep it dairy-free if needed.
How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
To prevent sogginess, make sure to use fresh bread and avoid over-saturating it with butter. Keeping the foil open during baking allows moisture to escape. You can also toast the bread lightly before assembling the layers to create a barrier against moisture.
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).