Indulge in the satisfying flavors of 'Heart-Healthy Bacon Cheese Bread,' a wholesome twist on a classic comfort food favorite! This recipe combines the nutty goodness of whole wheat flour, the savory crunch of low-sodium turkey bacon, and the creamy richness of reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese for a guilt-free treat. Packed with nutrient-dense chia seeds, fresh spinach, and a touch of honey for natural sweetness, this bread is perfect for health-conscious eaters who refuse to compromise on flavor. With a quick-rise yeast base and a golden finish brushed with egg and almond milk, this loaf is both fluffy and rich in protein and fiber. Whether served fresh out of the oven or toasted to perfection, itβs a delicious way to enjoy a heart-friendly bread thatβs ideal for breakfast, snacking, or pairing with your favorite soup.
Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
In a small bowl, mix the warm water, honey, and quick-rise yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Cook the turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove from the pan, let cool, and then chop into small pieces.
In a large bowl, combine whole wheat flour, chia seeds, garlic powder, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
Add the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir to form a dough. Knead for about 5 minutes on a floured surface until smooth.
Incorporate the chopped turkey bacon and reduced-fat cheddar cheese into the dough, evenly distributing them.
Gently fold in the fresh spinach. The dough should be slightly sticky.
Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan.
Cover the loaf pan with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 15-20 minutes.
In a small bowl, beat the egg with almond milk. Brush the top of the loaf with this mixture.
Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and serve. Enjoy your heart-healthy bacon cheese bread as it is, or toasted, for a deliciously nutritious treat.
Calories |
1470 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 54.9 g | 70% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.9 g | 50% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 9.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 260 mg | 86% | |
| Sodium | 1909 mg | 83% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 205.9 g | 75% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 37.3 g | 133% | |
| Total Sugars | 18.9 g | ||
| Protein | 53.5 g | 107% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.6 mcg | 8% | |
| Calcium | 324 mg | 25% | |
| Iron | 13.9 mg | 77% | |
| Potassium | 1373 mg | 29% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.