Cheesy Bacon Swirls

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup (60g) cooked bacon, crumbled 1/2 cup (60g) cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 1g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. 3.
   Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the milk to the mixture, stirring until the dough comes together.
5. 5.
   Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for a minute.
6. 6.
   Roll out the dough into a rectangle of about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. 7.
   In a small bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, heavy cream, black pepper, and garlic powder.
8. 8.
   Spread the cheese and bacon mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough.
9. 9.
   Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll the dough into a log.
10. 10.
    Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 1-inch thick slices.
11. 11.
    Place the slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
12. 12.
    Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the swirls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. 13.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cheddar cheese — Use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor.
• Bacon — Cook the bacon until crispy before crumbling it for added texture and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese and bacon mixture.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for unique flavor variations.
• Serve the Cheesy Bacon Swirls with a side of tomato chutney or barbecue sauce for dipping.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
• These swirls can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Cheesy Bacon Swirls warm as an appetizer or as a delicious addition to brunch. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Cheesy Bacon Swirls on a platter, allowing the golden-brown swirls to be visible. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color.