Imagine slicing into a loaf of bread that’s still warm, oozing with melted cheddar, and studded with crispy bacon bits and fresh green onions. Savory Bacon Cheddar Quick Bread is a flavor-packed delight that’s simple to make and guaranteed to elevate any meal or snack. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a mid-day indulgence, this recipe combines the best of comfort food with the ease of a quick bread. Let’s dive into this cheesy, savory masterpiece.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: No yeast or lengthy rising times are required for this quick bread.
- Rich and Savory Flavors: Crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fragrant green onions create a perfect flavor combination.
- Versatile: Serve it as a side dish, enjoy it with a bowl of soup, or pair it with your favorite breakfast spread.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the mix-ins to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients for Savory Bacon Cheddar Quick Bread
| Category | Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Ingredients | All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon | |
| Salt | 1 1/2 teaspoons | |
| Baking powder | 1 1/2 teaspoons | |
| Baking soda | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Wet Ingredients | Eggs (large) | 2 |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup | |
| Olive oil | 1/4 cup | |
| Mix-Ins | Cooked bacon (diced) | 4 slices |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 1/2 cups (divided) | |
| Green onions (diced) | 1/2 cup (about 2) |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Bacon Cheddar Quick Bread
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a standard loaf pan with oil or cooking spray and set it aside.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda until evenly combined.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, and olive oil until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
- Stir gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the bread light and tender.
5. Add the Mix-Ins
- Fold in the diced bacon, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and the green onions.
- Stir until the mix-ins are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Prepare the Batter for Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top for an extra cheesy crust.
7. Bake the Bread
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- The top should be golden brown, and the cheese should form a beautiful crust.
8. Cool and Serve
- Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, or slice and serve warm for a melty, cheesy experience.
Pro Tips for Perfect Quick Bread
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
- High-quality cheddar and fresh green onions will enhance the overall flavor of the bread.
2. Don’t Overmix
- Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. Stir until the ingredients are just combined.
3. Customize Your Mix-Ins
- Try adding jalapeños for a spicy kick, or swap out bacon for diced ham or crumbled sausage.
4. Test for Doneness
- Insert a toothpick or skewer into the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready.
5. Store Properly
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Slice (1/10 Loaf) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 8g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
Serving Suggestions
- As a Breakfast Side: Pair with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.
- With Soup or Stew: Serve alongside tomato soup, chili, or beef stew for a comforting meal.
- As an Appetizer: Slice into small pieces and serve with a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese.
- Snack: Enjoy it on its own, toasted with a smear of butter.
FAQs About Savory Bacon Cheddar Quick Bread
1. Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for 1:1 substitution.
2. What can I use instead of buttermilk?
You can create a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
3. Can I freeze this bread?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
4. How do I reheat this bread?
Reheat individual slices in the toaster oven or microwave for a warm, fresh-from-the-oven taste.
5. Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes, divide the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
6. What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is ideal for its flavor, but you can experiment with Gouda, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Savory Bacon Cheddar Quick Bread is the ultimate combination of comfort and convenience. The crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and bright green onions create a flavor profile that’s irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for an easy recipe to try, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your household.
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Ready to bake a cheesy, savory masterpiece? Gather your ingredients and try this Savory Bacon Cheddar Quick Bread today. It’s simple, delicious, and guaranteed to impress your family and friends!