There's something irresistibly comforting about the combination of crispy bacon, melted Swiss cheese, and freshly baked bread. This Swiss and Bacon Bread recipe brings together these beloved ingredients in a hearty loaf that's perfect for everything from casual sandwiches to elegant dinner parties.
The Perfect Marriage of Flavors
The magic of this bread lies in its careful balance of ingredients. Smoky, crispy bacon adds a rich depth of flavor and delightful texture, while Swiss cheese melts into pockets of creamy goodness throughout the loaf. The result is a bread that's both satisfying and sophisticated.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- 12 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
- 2 cups grated Swiss cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Begin by activating the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and remaining sugar. Make a well in the center.
- Add the melted butter, egg, and yeast mixture to the well. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon, Swiss cheese, thyme, and black pepper evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Starting from the long edge, tightly roll up the dough like a jelly roll. Pinch the seam and ends to seal.
- Place the loaf seam-side down in a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the loaf with beaten egg.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile bread shines in multiple ways:
- Toasted for breakfast with eggs
- As the base for an extraordinary grilled cheese
- Alongside a bowl of tomato soup
- Cut into thick slices for a charcuterie board
Storage Tips
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, slice before freezing and thaw individual pieces as needed.
Make It Your Own
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add herbs to make this recipe your own. Gruyère makes an excellent substitute for Swiss cheese, and fresh rosemary can replace the thyme for a different aromatic profile.
This Swiss and Bacon Bread isn't just a recipe – it's an experience that brings together the best of comfort food in a sophisticated package. Whether you're an experienced baker or trying your hand at bread-making for the first time, this recipe promises delicious results that will have everyone asking for seconds.
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