Name: Glazed Bacon Cheese-Mas Cob Loaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil (A drizzle to sauté the bacon and onion for rich flavor.); 150 g short cut bacon rashers (Finely chopped for a crispy and savory base.); 1 medium brown onion (Finely chopped to add sweetness and depth to the filling.); 2 cloves garlic cloves (Crushed to enhance the aroma and taste of the dish.); 250 g cream cheese (At room temperature for a creamy texture in the dip.); 100 g sour cream (Adds tanginess and balances the richness of the cream cheese.); 2 tbsp fresh continental parsley (Chopped for a burst of freshness and color.); 1 loaf cob loaf (The perfect vessel for holding your delicious filling.); 250 g streaky bacon rashers (Wrap around the loaf for a beautiful, savory crust.); 4 tbsp maple syrup (Glazes the bacon for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.); 200 g baby carrots (Peeled for dipping and adding a crunch to your experience.); 1 large Lebanese cucumber (Cut into wedges, fresh and crunchy for scooping.)

It was one of those evenings when I wanted to impress my friends without spending hours in the kitchen. While rummaging through my pantry, I stumbled upon a cob loaf and an assortment of savory ingredients that sparked a delicious idea. What if I combined rich cream cheese, crispy bacon, and a drizzle of maple syrup into a mouthwatering, glazed bacon cheese-mas cob loaf?

This dish is not just eye-catching; it’s the perfect centerpiece for any gathering. The crispy, sweet bacon wrapped around the fluffy loaf creates an incredible contrast that no one can resist! With just 40 minutes of cook time, you’ll delight your guests with a warm, cheesy dip that pairs wonderfully with fresh veggies like crunchy Lebanese cucumber and sweet baby carrots. Say goodbye to boring snacks and hello to a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds! Dive into this recipe and experience the magic of cozy, homemade goodness.

Why will you love glazed bacon cheese-mas cob loaf?

Irresistible Flavor: The blend of creamy cheese and crispy bacon creates an unforgettable taste sensation.

Quick and Easy: With only 40 minutes of cook time, you’ll have a show-stopping dish ready in no time.

Versatile Serving: Perfect for parties or cozy nights in, this recipe suits any occasion.

Visual Appeal: The attractive wrapped bacon creates a stunning presentation that makes this loaf a conversation starter.

This is a dish that everyone will love; serve it alongside fresh veggies for a delightful dipping experience. Upgrade your snack game and try this easy-to-make recipe for a guaranteed hit!

Glazed Bacon Cheese-Mas Cob Loaf Ingredients

For the Filling
• Olive oil – A drizzle to sauté the bacon and onion for rich flavor.
• Short cut bacon rashers – Finely chopped for a crispy and savory base.
• Brown onion – Finely chopped to add sweetness and depth to the filling.
• Garlic cloves – Crushed to enhance the aroma and taste of the dish.
• Cream cheese – At room temperature, it provides a creamy texture in the dip.
• Sour cream – Adds tanginess and balances the richness of the cream cheese.
• Fresh continental parsley – Chopped for a burst of freshness and color.

For the Loaf
• Cob loaf – The perfect vessel for holding your delicious filling.
• Streaky bacon rashers – Wrap around the loaf for a beautiful, savory crust.
• Maple syrup – Glazes the bacon for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.

For Serving
• Baby carrots – Peeled for dipping and adding a crunch to your experience.
• Lebanese cucumber wedges – Fresh and crunchy, ideal for scooping up the cheesy dip.

Transform simple ingredients into an irresistible glazed bacon cheese-mas cob loaf that will be the highlight of your gathering!

How to Make Glazed Bacon Cheese-Mas Cob Loaf

Preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C fan forced and line a baking tray with baking paper. This step ensures your loaf bakes evenly and the bacon becomes perfectly crispy.
Sauté the olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped short cut bacon and finely chopped onion. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the bacon is golden brown and the onion is soft. Add crushed garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant. Transfer the mixture to a heatproof bowl and let it cool slightly.

Mix cream cheese, sour cream, and parsley into the cooled bacon mixture. Season to taste and stir until all ingredients are well combined. This creamy filling is what makes your cob loaf irresistibly delicious!
Prepare the cob loaf by cutting the top off, about 4 cm from the top. Reserve the top and scoop out the insides of the loaf, leaving a 2 cm-thick shell. Tear the inside bread into large pieces for dipping later.
Wrap the cob loaf with the streaky bacon rashers, tucking the ends under to secure them. Brush the bacon with maple syrup to add that sweet glaze. Place it on the prepared tray and bake for 20 minutes.

Fill the cob with the bacon mixture, pressing it down gently. Brush the wrapped bacon with more syrup for added sweetness. Place the reserved bread pieces on the tray, spraying them lightly with oil and brushing with any remaining syrup.
Lower the oven temperature to 180°C/160°C fan forced and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the bacon is golden brown and crispy. Finish by brushing with any leftover syrup and topping with extra parsley for garnish. Serve with baby carrots and cucumber wedges for dipping.

Optional: Serve with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing a glazed bacon cheese-mas cob loaf ahead of time is a fantastic way to save yourself precious minutes during busy days! You can prep the filling (bacon, cream cheese, sour cream, and parsley mixture) and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to assemble the loaf (including wrapping it with bacon) within 24 hours of baking to ensure optimal freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the cob with the chilled mixture, brush with syrup, and bake according to the original recipe instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful dish that tastes just as delicious as if it were made fresh!

What to Serve with Bacon Cob Loaf?

Elevate your gathering with delightful sides that perfectly complement the warm, cheesy joy of this dish.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture pairs beautifully with the crispy bacon, creating a comforting contrast.
Garlic Bread: This crunchy accompaniment soaks up any leftover cheese dip, making every bite a little slice of heaven.

Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing burst of crisp greens balances the richness of the cob loaf, providing a bright, healthful element.
Roasted Veggies: Caramelized seasonal veggies add depth and a touch of sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness and crispy texture offer a delightful counterpoint to the savory bacon and creamy filling.

Wine Pairing: A chilled Chardonnay complements the richness of the dish while enhancing the delightful savory notes.
Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of fruits brings a refreshing contrast, adding bursts of sweetness alongside the savory loaf.
Chocolate Mousse: To finish your meal on a decadent note, this light and airy dessert is perfect for rounding off flavors.

Glazed Bacon Cheese-Mas Cob Loaf Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe—your culinary adventure awaits!

Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the bacon filling for a spicy twist. The heat beautifully complements the creamy cheese.

Veggie Delight: Mix in some sautéed spinach or arugula for extra nutrition and vibrant color. This addition enhances the flavor while keeping it fresh.
Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like dill or chives instead of parsley to give your loaf a unique flavor profile. Their aromatic touch will elevate every bite.
Cheese Medley: Swap cream cheese for a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for an ooey-gooey consistency. This ensures a melty, cheesy experience that’s simply irresistible!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free bread option for the cob loaf to cater to dietary needs without compromising on taste. The rich filling will shine through any bread choice.
Sweet and Savory: Drizzle balsamic reduction over the bacon crust before baking for a tangy contrast. This brings an extra layer of flavor that will captivate your taste buds.
Nutty Texture: Add some toasted chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling. They provide a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy center.

Fruit Twist: Incorporate diced apples or pears into the filling mixture. This unexpected sweetness beautifully balances the savory bacon and creamy cheese.

Expert Tips for Glazed Bacon Cheese-Mas Cob Loaf

Bacon Selection: Choose high-quality streaky bacon for the best flavor and crispiness. Thinly sliced bacon can easily get too crispy and dry, so go for thicker rashers.
Room Temperature Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This makes it easier to blend and results in a creamy filling without lumps.

Savory Balance: Don’t skip on seasoning! A pinch of salt and pepper can enhance the taste of your glazed bacon cheese-mas cob loaf and balance the richness of the cheese.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the bacon during the final bake. If it begins to darken too much, loosely cover it with foil to prevent burning while the inside bakes to perfection.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to customize the filling by adding other ingredients like chopped jalapeños for some heat or sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.

How to Store and Freeze Glazed Bacon Cheese-Mas Cob Loaf

Room Temperature: Enjoy your cob loaf fresh for best flavor. If needed, it can sit out for up to 2 hours before becoming a bit soggy.

Fridge: Store any leftover glazed bacon cheese-mas cob loaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.

Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again, reviving that delightful texture!

Glazed Bacon Cheese-Mas Cob Loaf Recipe FAQs

What type of bacon should I use for the cob loaf?
I recommend using high-quality streaky bacon as it provides the best flavor and crispy texture. Thicker slices will yield a more satisfying bite and won’t dry out as quickly during baking. Avoid overly thin bacon, which might get too crispy and lose its juiciness.

How do I store leftovers of the glazed bacon cheese-mas cob loaf?
To keep your delicious cob loaf fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its flavor and texture. If you have a whole loaf left, tightly wrap it in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to minimize air exposure.

Can I freeze the glazed bacon cheese-mas cob loaf?
Absolutely! For freezing, I suggest wrapping individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This way, they will stay protected from freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How can I reheat the cob loaf to restore its crispiness?
To reheat, preheat your oven to 180°C. Place the slices on a baking tray and warm them for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore the crispy bacon while warming the creamy cheese filling, bringing back that delightful texture you loved!

Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Very! Feel free to customize the filling based on your taste preferences. For a kick, add chopped jalapeños for heat, or sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist. You might also want to incorporate grated cheese or spinach for added richness and flavor.

How long can I leave the cob loaf out at room temperature?
It’s best to enjoy your cob loaf fresh. If necessary, you can leave it out for about 2 hours. However, after this time, it may begin to lose its freshness and become a bit soggy, so keep an eye on it!