This fluffy, savory bread bake features a soft, tender interior topped with creamy cheese, juicy cherry tomatoes, crispy bacon, and fragrant herbs. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a satisfying side dish.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: 9

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Ingredients

Bread Batter

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup (180 ml) warm milk
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil or melted butter

Topping

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup cream cheese or ricotta cheese, softened
• ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

• In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
• Add the warm milk, eggs, and olive oil.
• Mix until a soft, sticky dough forms.
• Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 2: First Rise

• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl.
• Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Pan

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan.

Step 4: Assemble

• Press the risen dough evenly into the prepared pan.
• Spread dollops of cream cheese or ricotta over the surface.
• Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Scatter the bacon evenly over the cheese.
• Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes on top.
• Sprinkle with oregano and basil.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Step 6: Finish

• Remove from the oven.
• Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
• Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with:

• Scrambled eggs
• Fresh fruit
• Mixed green salad
• Tomato soup
• Roasted vegetables
• Garlic butter

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Tips for Success

• Use room-temperature ingredients for better dough rise.
• Pat the tomatoes dry before adding them to prevent excess moisture.
• Fresh mozzarella can be used, but drain it well.
• Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing for cleaner pieces.
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

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Storage

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
• Air Fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes.
• Microwave: 20–30 seconds.

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Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 345
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 520 mg
• Calcium: 240 mg

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Nut Information

This recipe is naturally peanut-free and tree nut-free.

Always check the labels on:

• Flour
• Yeast
• Cheese
• Bacon
• Seasonings

Some packaged ingredients may be processed in facilities that also handle peanuts or tree nuts.

Nut-Free Tips

• Use certified nut-free packaged ingredients if preparing for someone with severe nut allergies.
• Avoid adding pesto or nut-based toppings.

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Variations

• Mediterranean: Add sliced olives, spinach, and crumbled feta cheese.
• Meat Lover’s: Add cooked sausage, diced ham, and pepperoni.
• Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and add mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers.
• Spicy: Mix chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the topping.
• Italian Style: Add sliced salami and provolone cheese.
• Low-Carb: Use your favorite low-carb bread dough recipe as the base.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Bring it to room temperature before baking.

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely. Store-bought pizza dough is a great shortcut and works very well.

Can I substitute the bacon?

Yes. Cooked sausage, diced ham, turkey bacon, or even smoked chicken are excellent alternatives.

What cheese melts best?

Low-moisture mozzarella provides the best stretch, while Parmesan adds a rich, savory flavor.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes. Replace up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.

How do I know when it’s fully baked?

The bread should be golden brown, and the internal temperature should reach 190–200°F (88–93°C) if checked with a food thermometer.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.

What goes well with this bread bake?

It pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, eggs, roasted vegetables, or simply served warm with a little butter.