This Honey Bacon Bread is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for brunch or as a side to hearty soups. The dough is enriched with honey and butter, creating a tender crumb with a golden, slightly crisp crust. Crispy bacon bits are folded throughout, adding a smoky crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, yeasted bread. The natural sweetness of the honey complements the saltiness of the bacon, making each bite addictive. This loaf is incredibly versatile; serve it warm with extra butter, slice it for sandwiches, or enjoy it as a dinner roll. It’s a comforting, homemade treat that brings a unique twist to traditional bread baking, sure to become a favorite at your family table.
Honey Bacon Bread
Description
This Honey Bacon Bread is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for brunch or as a side to hearty soups. The dough is enriched with honey and butter, creating a tender crumb with a golden, slightly crisp crust. Crispy bacon bits are folded throughout, adding a smoky crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, yeasted bread. The natural sweetness of the honey complements the saltiness of the bacon, making each bite addictive. This loaf is incredibly versatile; serve it warm with extra butter, slice it for sandwiches, or enjoy it as a dinner roll. It&# 226;ÂÂs a comforting, homemade treat that brings a unique twist to traditional bread baking, sure to become a favorite at your family table.Ingredients
Directions
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In a small bowl, combine the very warm water and honey. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy and active.
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In a large mixing bowl or bread machine pan, combine the wheat flour, vital wheat gluten, and salt.
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Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients. If using a mixer, beat until the butter is incorporated; if using a bread machine, place butter in a well in the flour.
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Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture. Add the soft bacon bits.
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Mix or knead the dough until smooth and elastic. If using a bread machine, select the dough cycle. If mixing by hand, knead for about 8-10 minutes. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable; add additional warm water one tablespoon at a time if it is too dry.
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Let the dough rise in a lightly greased bowl or pan until doubled in size, about 45-60 minutes.
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Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf or rolls. Place in a greased baking pan.
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Let rise again for 20-30 minutes until puffy.
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Preheat oven to 350ðF (175ðC). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom and is golden brown.
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Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 16
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1048.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 27.0g42%
- Saturated Fat 10.8g54%
- Cholesterol 38.0mg13%
- Sodium 6694.1mg279%
- Total Carbohydrate 176.2g59%
- Dietary Fiber 21.0g84%
- Sugars 25.8g
- Protein 38.5g77%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
**Bacon Bits Tip:** The original recipe notes suggest using soft bacon bits rather than crunchy ones for a better texture in the bread. If you only have crunchy bacon bits, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes before adding to the dough to soften them.
**Bread Machine Settings:** This recipe was originally tested with a DAK Auto Bakery or DAK Turbo on the turbo cycle. If using a standard bread machine, use the basic bread or dough setting.
**Storage:** Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
**Attribution:** This recipe was originally shared by Celeste Beatie.
