If you love the perfect balance of spicy, savory, and cheesy mashed into one irresistible loaf, the Jalapeno Cheddar Bread with Bacon and Green Onions Recipe is going to be your new obsession. This bread combines smoky bacon, tangy cheddar cheese, fresh green onions, and a kick of jalapeno heat, baked into a moist, tender bread that’s impossible to resist. Whether you want a standout appetizer, a spectacular snack, or a side that elevates any meal, this recipe delivers on every front with flavor and heartwarming comfort. Trust me, once you make this Jalapeno Cheddar Bread with Bacon and Green Onions Recipe, it will quickly become a household favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is all it takes to create the magic in this Jalapeno Cheddar Bread with Bacon and Green Onions Recipe. Each component contributes something special from texture to flavor, making the final loaf a harmonious blend of spice, creaminess, and savory goodness.
- Applewood smoked bacon (12 to 14 slices, cooked and crumbled): Provides smoky, crispy bites that infuse the bread with deep umami.
- All-purpose flour (3 cups): The essential base that gives structure and softness to your bread.
- Kosher salt (1 tsp.): Enhances and balances all the flavors in the bread.
- Baking powder (1 Tbsp.): Ensures the bread rises perfectly, light and fluffy inside.
- Granulated sugar (2 Tbsp.): Adds a subtle touch of sweetness that offsets the spice from jalapenos.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Brings rich creaminess and a tender crumb to the texture.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Bursts of sharp, melty flavor throughout every bite.
- Jalapenos (2, diced and de-seeded): Deliver just the right amount of heat without overpowering.
- Green onions (2, thinly sliced): Freshness and mild onion flavor brighten the bread.
- Large egg (1): Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- Milk (1 1/2 cups): Creates a soft, tender crumb and aids in mixing.
- Melted butter (1 Tbsp.): Adds richness and keeps the bread moist.
How to Make Jalapeno Cheddar Bread with Bacon and Green Onions Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms up, generously coat a 9×5-inch bread pan with non-stick cooking spray. This simple preparation step ensures your bread won’t stick and comes out perfectly shaped when it’s done baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, kosher salt, baking powder, and granulated sugar until evenly combined. This mixture forms the foundation for your bread’s texture and rise, so mixing well is important to distribute each leavening agent properly throughout.
Step 3: Beat the Cream Cheese
Using a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy. This will create a luscious base that contributes to the bread’s soft texture. Take your time here to avoid lumps and ensure an even creaminess.
Step 4: Fold in Flavor-Packed Add-Ins
Gently fold the shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapenos, sliced green onions, and crumbled bacon into the cream cheese. Each ingredient adds a burst of flavor and texture that will make every bite exciting and satisfying.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the dry flour mixture, beaten egg, milk, and melted butter into your creamy mixture. Stir everything together just until combined — be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough rather than tender.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your batter into the prepared bread pan and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 to 50 minutes. Use a toothpick inserted into the center to check for doneness; it should come out generally dry with a few crumbs but no wet batter.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Once baked, allow your bread to cool slightly in the pan before slicing. This step helps the bread set properly, so your slices come out neat and maintain their delightful crumb.
How to Serve Jalapeno Cheddar Bread with Bacon and Green Onions Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of charm and flavor, sprinkle some extra chopped green onions or a light dusting of shredded cheddar cheese on top of your sliced bread. A small pat of butter melting on a warm slice is always a welcome finish.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with creamy soups like tomato bisque or broccoli cheddar, as well as bold chili recipes. Its smoky and spicy notes complement heartier dishes, making it a versatile side on any table.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your Jalapeno Cheddar Bread with Bacon and Green Onions Recipe into a show-stopper appetizer by cutting it into small cubes for dipping or serving alongside a zesty queso dip. You can also toast slices lightly and spread with softened cream cheese or avocado for an elevated snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigeration can keep it fresh for up to 5 days but allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
Freezing
The Jalapeno Cheddar Bread with Bacon and Green Onions Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap it well in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag or airtight container. Frozen bread will keep for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To bring your bread back to life, reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 10 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp on the outside. Microwaving can be faster but might make the bread a bit soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cheddar?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar provides a classic tang, using pepper jack adds extra spice, and gouda lends a creamy sweetness. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite twist on this bread.
How spicy is the Jalapeno Cheddar Bread with Bacon and Green Onions Recipe?
The spice level is moderate thanks to de-seeding the jalapenos, which tones down the heat. If you prefer more kick, including some seeds will amp up the spiciness in each bite.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well. The texture might vary slightly but the flavor will still shine.
Is it possible to omit the bacon for a vegetarian version?
Definitely! You can leave out the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version or swap it for smoked paprika and extra cheese to retain that savory punch.
How long does this bread stay fresh?
If stored properly, your Jalapeno Cheddar Bread with Bacon and Green Onions Recipe will stay fresh and delicious for up to 2 days at room temperature, up to 5 days in the fridge, and months if frozen.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong making this Jalapeno Cheddar Bread with Bacon and Green Onions Recipe. It’s an easy, flavorful bread that brightens up any meal or snack time with layers of flavor and wonderful texture. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in a private treat, it’s worth every minute in the kitchen. Go ahead, bake a loaf today—you won’t regret it!
Print
Jalapeno Cheddar Bread with Bacon and Green Onions Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 slices
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Jalapeno Cheddar Bread is a savory and cheesy quick bread packed with smoky bacon, spicy jalapenos, and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect as a flavorful side or snack, this bread combines creamy cream cheese and the zing of green onions for a moist and tender texture. Baked to golden perfection, it’s an irresistible treat for cheese lovers and spice fans alike.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1 Tbsp. baking powder
- 2 Tbsp. granulated sugar
Dairy
- 4 ounces cream cheese (1/2 8 ounce package, softened)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 Tbsp. butter (melted)
Vegetables & Herbs
- 2 jalapenos (diced and de-seeded)
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced)
Meat
- 12 to 14 slices applewood smoked bacon (cooked and crumbled)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly coat a 9×5-inch bread pan with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, baking powder, and granulated sugar until they are well combined to ensure even distribution of leavening agents and seasoning.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy, which will help it blend seamlessly with the other ingredients.
- Combine Flavor Components: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapenos (with seeds removed for milder heat), thinly sliced green onions, and the crispy crumbled bacon pieces into the cream cheese, spreading the flavors evenly.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the dry flour mixture, egg, milk, and melted butter to the creamy mixture. Stir gently just until combined; be careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Transfer and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared bread pan, smoothing the top lightly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack or slicing directly. This resting time helps the bread set properly for clean slices.
Notes
- De-seeding jalapenos reduces heat, but you can leave some seeds in if a spicier bread is desired.
- Using applewood smoked bacon adds a smoky depth; regular bacon can be used as well.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to avoid tough bread.
- Store leftover bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- This bread is great when served warm with butter or alongside soups and salads.
