Bacon Cheddar Howie Bread from Hungry Howie's features a golden, soft bread stuffed with savory bacon bits, melted sharp cheddar cheese, and a touch of garlic butter, delivering a warm, cheesy, and flavorful appetizer with a slightly crispy crust.
Equipments
- Oven
- Baking sheet or pizza pan
- Mixing bowl
- Pastry brush
- Cheese grater
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Rolling pin (optional)
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
When preparing Bacon Cheddar Howie Bread, using freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese enhances the flavor and meltability compared to pre-shredded options. Ensure the bacon is cooked until crisp to provide the right texture and savory taste inside the bread. Warm water at around 110degF activates the yeast properly, resulting in a soft and golden crust. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning, especially when combined with garlic powder for even flavor distribution. Your homemade Bacon Cheddar Howie Bread will closely replicate the popular Hungry Howie's menu item, delivering a warm, cheesy, and garlicky appetizer with a satisfying crunch.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook bacon until crispy, then chop into small pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, olive oil, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead dough for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let dough rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down dough and transfer to a floured surface.
- Roll dough out into a rectangle (about ¼ inch thick).
- Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese and chopped bacon evenly over dough.
- Fold dough over filling and press edges to seal, forming a log or rectangle.
- Transfer to greased baking sheet or pizza pan.
- In a small bowl, melt butter and mix in garlic powder.
- Brush garlic butter over top of dough.
- Bake 18–22 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from oven, brush with more garlic butter, and sprinkle with parsley if using.
- Let cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.
Substitution
Bacon Cheddar Howie Bread from Hungry Howie's copycat menu features soft, golden bread filled with crispy bacon bits, sharp cheddar cheese, and garlic butter. You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon for a lighter or meat-free option while maintaining flavor. Sharp cheddar cheese can be swapped with aged gouda or mozzarella depending on your preference and availability. If fresh parsley isn't accessible, dried parsley or chives work well as alternatives to add a touch of herbaceous flavor. When brushing garlic butter, be cautious not to oversaturate the dough to keep the crust slightly crispy.
Tips
Make sure your water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly--around 110degF (43degC) is ideal. When kneading the dough, aim for a smooth and elastic texture to ensure a light, airy bread. Seal the edges of the dough firmly to keep the cheese and bacon inside while baking. After baking, brushing the bread with garlic butter not only enhances flavor but also keeps the crust moist and appetizing.
Nutritions
Bacon Cheddar Howie Bread offers a rich combination of protein and fat primarily from the crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese, contributing to a satisfying savory flavor. The all-purpose flour provides carbohydrates essential for energy, while olive oil and butter add healthy fats and help create a moist texture. Garlic powder and fresh parsley enhance the bread not only with flavor but also with antioxidants and vitamins, supporting overall nutrition. You can enjoy this bread as a flavorful snack or appetizer that balances carbs, fats, and protein.
Storage
Store your Bacon Cheddar Howie Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its softness and flavor. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month, then thaw at room temperature before reheating. Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350degF (175degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore the crispy crust and melted cheese texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the sharp cheddar cheese with a blend of mozzarella and smoked gouda for a creamier texture and a smoky flavor. Instead of traditional bacon, try using turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative to reduce fat content while maintaining a savory taste. For a different crust texture, brush the dough with an egg wash before baking to achieve a glossy and richer finish. To infuse more flavor, add finely chopped caramelized onions or roasted garlic to the cheese and bacon filling before folding the dough.
Allergies
The Bacon Cheddar Howie Bread contains common allergens such as wheat from all-purpose flour and dairy from sharp cheddar cheese and unsalted butter. Bacon may pose a risk for those with pork allergies or sensitivities, while garlic powder could trigger reactions in individuals sensitive to alliums. You should carefully review ingredient labels and consult with a healthcare professional if you have food allergies or intolerances.
Why this recipe?
Hungry Howie's Bacon Cheddar Howie Bread combines crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and seasoned dough for a savory, satisfying flavor that appeals to many. The blend of smoky bacon and rich cheddar enhances the bread's texture, making it an irresistible appetizer or side dish. Making a copycat version allows you to customize the ingredients to your taste while enjoying the same delicious experience at home. Your kitchen can recreate this popular menu item, saving money and impressing guests with homemade savory goodness.