Bacon and Sun Dried Tomato Bread

A Colorado State Fair winner. Use for BLT sandwiches.

• Ready In: 1 hr 45 mins
• Yields: 1 loaf

Ingredients

• 2 3⁄4-3 1⁄4 cups bread flour
• 2  tablespoons sugar
• 1 (1/4ounce) envelope fast rising yeast (instant and or bread machine yeast)
• 1  teaspoon dried sweet basil leaves
• 3⁄4 teaspoon salt
• 1  cup  very warm water (120 - 130F)
• 2  tablespoons  very warm water (120 - 130F)
• 1⁄3 cup  crumbled  cooked bacon
• 1⁄3 cup  drained chopped, sun-dried tomato (packed in oil)
• 1  large garlic clove, minced
• 1  tablespoon  melted butter (plus additional for brushing top of loaf)

Directions

1. Combine 1-1/2 cups flour, sugar, undissolved yeast, basil and salt in a large mixer bowl. Add water; mix on medium speed of mixer for 1 minute. Add in bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic and butter; mix to combine. Add enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 6 to 8 minutes, until dough is smooth and elastic. Cover and let rest 10 minutes.
2. Grease a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan. Form dough into a smooth loaf and place in pan. Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free place 30 to 40 minutes, or until dough is doubled in bulk.
3. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until done. Brush top with melted butter, if desired. Cool in pan 5 minutes, then remove from pan and cool completely on cooling rack.