Name: Savory Cake Olives Bacon Cheese: The Ultimate Guide
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 70 min
Yield: 8-10 slices
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 4 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese (or Emmental); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup pitted green olives, roughly chopped; 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6 slices); 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Optional: 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped; Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat

Savory cake olives bacon cheese – just the name alone conjures up images of a delightful, unexpected treat, doesn't it? Forget everything you think you know about cake because this isn't your average sugar-laden dessert. This is a flavor explosion, a symphony of salty, smoky, and savory notes all harmonizing in one incredibly satisfying bite.

While the exact origins of this particular combination are shrouded in a bit of mystery, savory cakes have a long and fascinating history, popping up in various cultures around the world as a way to utilize leftover ingredients and create a hearty, flavorful dish. Think of it as the sophisticated cousin of the humble quiche! The beauty of a savory cake olives bacon cheese lies in its versatility. It's perfect as an appetizer for your next gathering, a delightful addition to a brunch spread, or even a satisfying light lunch paired with a simple salad.

People adore this dish because it's an unexpected adventure for the palate. The salty olives and smoky bacon provide a wonderful contrast to the richness of the cheese, all held together by the tender, cake-like base. It’s also incredibly convenient to make ahead of time, making it a stress-free option for entertaining or simply enjoying a delicious homemade treat any day of the week. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this unique and utterly irresistible creation!

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup olive oil
1 cup grated Gruyere cheese (or Emmental)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup pitted green olives, roughly chopped
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6 slices)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced
Optional: 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat

Preparing the Savory Cake Batter

Alright, let's get started with the heart of our savory cake – the batter! This is where all the magic begins, and it's surprisingly simple. Don't be intimidated; I'll walk you through each step.

Preheat your oven and prepare your pan: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. You can also use baking spray with flour if you prefer. This will ensure that your cake comes out easily once it's baked. Trust me, a well-prepared pan is half the battle!
Whisk together the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. This step is crucial for ensuring that the cake rises properly and has a consistent texture. If you're adding red pepper flakes, whisk them in now too.
Whisk together the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and olive oil until well combined. You want a smooth and emulsified mixture. Don't skip this step – it's important for the cake's moisture and overall texture.
Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. A few lumps are perfectly fine. We're aiming for a batter that's just barely mixed.
Incorporate the cheese, olives, bacon, parsley, and garlic: Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in the Gruyere cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped olives, crumbled bacon, chopped parsley, and minced garlic. If you're using sun-dried tomatoes, fold them in now as well. Make sure everything is evenly distributed throughout the batter. This is where all the delicious flavors come together!
Pour the batter into the prepared pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. You can use a spatula to smooth the top.

Baking the Savory Cake

Now that our batter is ready and in the pan, it's time to bake this beauty! Baking is a bit of an art, but with these instructions, you'll be a pro in no time.

Bake in the preheated oven: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on it.
Check for doneness: To check for doneness, insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again.
Cool in the pan: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. This allows the cake to set and prevents it from breaking when you try to remove it.
Invert onto a wire rack: After cooling in the pan for 10-15 minutes, carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent the bottom of the cake from becoming soggy.

Serving and Storing Your Savory Cake

Congratulations! You've successfully baked a delicious savory cake. Now, let's talk about serving and storing it so you can enjoy it to the fullest.

Slice and serve: Once the cake has cooled completely, slice it and serve. This cake is delicious warm or at room temperature. It's perfect as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a light meal.
Serving suggestions: This savory cake pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, a bowl of soup, or a glass of wine. You can also serve it with a dollop of crème fraîche or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
Storing leftovers: To store leftovers, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, you can warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Freezing: You can also freeze the cake for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Tips and Variations

Want to customize your savory cake? Here are a few tips and variations to get you started:

Cheese variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, Gouda, or even crumbled feta would be delicious in this cake.
Meat variations: Instead of bacon, you could use ham, prosciutto, or even cooked sausage.
Vegetable variations: Add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
Spice variations: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a little extra kick.
Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.
Dairy-free option: Use a dairy-free milk alternative and dairy-free cheese to make this cake dairy-free.

Troubleshooting

Sometimes things don't go exactly as planned. Here are a few common problems and how to fix them:

Cake is too dry: Make sure you're not overbaking the cake. Also, check that your oven temperature is accurate.
Cake is too dense: Make sure you're not overmixing the batter. Also, check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh.
Cake is not rising: Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Also, avoid opening the oven door too often while the cake is baking.
Cake is sticking to the pan: Make sure you've greased and floured the pan thoroughly. You can also use baking spray with flour.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this savory cake as much as I do! It's a versatile and delicious recipe that's perfect for any occasion. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Happy baking!

Conclusion:

This savory cake, bursting with olives, bacon, and cheese, is truly a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their appetizer game or simply enjoy a delightful and unexpected treat. It's more than just a cake; it's an experience, a conversation starter, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of salty bacon, briny olives, and creamy cheese baked into a light and airy cake creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. I promise, once you try it, you'll be adding it to your regular rotation of go-to recipes! But what truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility. It's fantastic served warm, straight from the oven, but it's equally delicious at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or even a sophisticated brunch. I often serve it with a dollop of crème fraîche or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil to enhance the flavors even further. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the richness of the cake beautifully. And don't be afraid to experiment! This recipe is incredibly adaptable to your own personal preferences. If you're not a fan of bacon, try substituting it with prosciutto or pancetta for a different, equally delicious, salty kick. You could also add sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of heat. For cheese variations, consider using Gruyere, Fontina, or even a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor profile. The possibilities are truly endless!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Brunch Star: Serve slices alongside scrambled eggs, smoked salmon, and fresh fruit for a memorable brunch spread. * Appetizer Delight: Cut the cake into small squares and serve as an appetizer with a selection of cheeses, cured meats, and olives. * Picnic Perfect: Pack slices in your picnic basket for a sophisticated and satisfying outdoor meal. * Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Fontina, or sharp cheddar. * Meat Alternatives: Substitute bacon with prosciutto, pancetta, or even cooked sausage. * Veggie Boost: Add sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or chopped spinach for added flavor and nutrients. * Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a touch of heat. I've poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I'm confident that you'll love it as much as I do. It's a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for any occasion. The key to a truly exceptional savory cake is using high-quality ingredients. Don't skimp on the cheese or the olives – they are the stars of the show! And remember to bake it until it's golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I can't wait to hear about your experience! Please, try this recipe and share your photos and feedback in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried and how they turned out. I'm always eager to learn from your culinary adventures. Happy baking!