Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the irresistible flavors of Bacon Cheese Jalapeno Quick Bread. This savory bread is packed with hearty chunks of bacon, gooey melted cheese, and a hint of spice from diced jalapenos. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish, a snack, or even as a savory breakfast option, this quick bread is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you craving more. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake up a storm with this delicious recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s address some common queries about this delectable Bacon Cheese Jalapeno Quick Bread:
Q: Can I use pre-cooked bacon for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon to save time. Simply chop or crumble it into small pieces before adding it to the bread batter.
Q: Can I make this bread without jalapenos for a milder flavor? A: Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the jalapenos altogether or remove the seeds and membranes for less heat.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe? A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Gouda, pepper jack, or even blue cheese would be delicious alternatives to Monterey Jack and cheddar.
Q: Can I freeze leftover slices of this bread? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover slices of Bacon Cheese Jalapeno Quick Bread for future enjoyment. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven before serving.
Now, let’s gather our ingredients and dive into the delightful world of Bacon Cheese Jalapeno Quick Bread.
Ingredients:
- 12-14 slices of cooked good quality bacon, crumbled
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 cups shredded cheese (such as 1 cup Monterey Jack and 1 cup cheddar)
- 2 jalapenos, diced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 2 scallions, sliced thin (optional)
- 1 egg
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray and set aside.
2. Cook Bacon
- Cook the bacon slices until crispy using your preferred method (e.g., skillet, oven, or microwave).
- Once cooked, let the bacon cool slightly, then crumble or chop it into small pieces.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar. Mix well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
4. Add Cheese and Jalapenos
- Add the shredded cheese, diced jalapenos, and sliced scallions (if using) to the dry ingredients. Mix until evenly distributed.
5. Incorporate Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, whole milk, and melted butter until well combined.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix; the batter should be lumpy.
7. Fold in Bacon
- Gently fold the crumbled bacon into the batter until evenly distributed.
8. Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and Serve
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
- Carefully transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Serve slices of Bacon Cheese Jalapeno Quick Bread warm or at room temperature.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top of the bread before baking.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, you can leave the seeds and membranes in the jalapenos or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter.
- Feel free to customize the add-ins by incorporating cooked diced onions, bell peppers, or even chopped sun-dried tomatoes for added depth of flavor.
Keto Version:
- To make a keto-friendly version of this quick bread, you can substitute almond flour or coconut flour for the all-purpose flour. Use crumbled cooked bacon and shredded cheese that are low in carbohydrates. You can also use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk. Adjust the amount of flour substitute and liquid as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto version substitutions mentioned above, but you can also reduce the amount of flour used or substitute it with a combination of almond flour and coconut flour for a lower-carb alternative.
In conclusion, Bacon Cheese Jalapeno Quick Bread is a flavorful and versatile baked treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a savory breakfast option, a satisfying snack, or a side dish to accompany your favorite meal, this bread is sure to impress. With its hearty chunks of bacon, gooey melted cheese, and spicy jalapenos, it’s a flavor explosion in every bite.
So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a storm with this delicious recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, you’ll find that making Bacon Cheese Jalapeno Quick Bread is a breeze. Get ready to savor the deliciousness and enjoy every mouthwatering bite!
