There’s always that one dish at every get-together that disappears in minutes, and more often than not, it’s the cob loaf. Warm, creamy, and packed with flavour, this Aussie classic continues to be the highlight of casual gatherings and family celebrations alike.
It’s easy to see why it’s so popular. With its crusty outer shell and deliciously rich centre, the cob loaf manages to be both nostalgic and indulgent. Perfect for relaxed weekends, wine nights with friends, or even festive tables, this is one of those recipes that never fails to win people over.
Let’s take a look at how to make a creamy spinach and bacon cob loaf from scratch—an all-time favourite that’s just as lovely to serve as it is to eat.
A Cosy Favourite That’s Always a Hit
The cob loaf is one of those recipes that seems to bring people together. It’s simple, hearty, and designed to be shared. Tear off a chunk of bread, scoop up that rich filling, and enjoy—it’s comfort food at its finest.
You’ll often see it brought out at barbecues, birthday dos, or Sunday lunches. And it makes perfect sense—it’s easy to assemble, looks impressive on a platter, and always draws a crowd.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this tried-and-true version of the cob loaf:
- 1 round loaf of crusty bread (a sourdough or Vienna-style loaf works well)
- 250g cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 300ml sour cream
- 1 cup grated cheddar or tasty cheese
- 1 cup chopped baby spinach
- 4–5 rashers of middle bacon, diced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chives (optional), finely chopped for garnish or added flavour
Want to spice things up a little? A small pinch of paprika or chilli flakes goes a long way.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Hollow the Bread
Start by cutting a neat lid off the top of your loaf and set it aside for now. Gently scoop out the soft centre of the loaf, leaving about a 2cm thick shell all around to hold the filling. Tear the removed bread into bite-sized pieces—you’ll use them for dipping later.
2. Sauté the Bacon and Veg
Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add your chopped bacon and cook until crisp around the edges. Then, add the onion and garlic, cooking gently until they soften and become aromatic. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Combine the Filling
In a large bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and grated cheese. Fold in the bacon mixture along with the spinach. Stir until everything is evenly combined. Season to taste with a little salt and cracked pepper. If you’re using herbs or spices, now’s the time to add them in.
4. Fill and Assemble
Place the bread shell on a lined baking tray. Spoon the creamy filling into the hollowed-out loaf, right to the top. Scatter a little extra cheese over the surface for a golden finish. Arrange the bread chunks and the top piece of the loaf on the same tray around the filled cob.
5. Bake Until Golden
Slide the tray into a preheated oven at 180°C (fan-forced) and bake for around 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and the top is slightly golden. The torn bread pieces should be lightly crisped and perfect for scooping.
How to Serve
Once your cob loaf is out of the oven, place it on a large board or platter and arrange the toasted bread chunks around it. Serve while warm, and let everyone dig in. If you’re after something a bit fancier, you can add veggie sticks or crackers for variety.
Tips & Tweaks
- For vegetarians: Just leave out the bacon and try sautéed mushrooms or caramelised onion instead.
- Make-ahead tip: You can prepare the filling in advance, refrigerate it overnight, and assemble it just before baking.
- Portion control: Hosting something small? Mini cob loaves make perfect individual serves.
Why We Keep Coming Back to It
There’s something beautifully unfussy about a cob loaf. It’s not complicated or flashy—it’s comforting, familiar, and always appreciated. It has that warm, homely quality that makes people gather around, have a laugh, and go back for seconds.
It also adapts to the occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a casual backyard barbecue or an afternoon tea with friends, it fits right in. You don’t need special ingredients, and there’s no need to be an expert in the kitchen—it’s the kind of recipe anyone can master.
Final Thoughts
The cob loaf is a timeless entertainer’s trick; it fills people up, looks impressive, and brings a lovely sense of warmth and nostalgia to the table. Once you’ve made it a couple of times, you’ll likely find yourself trying new variations and adding your own twist.
So next time you’re hosting or just want to bring something comforting to the table, give this version a try. Pair it with a glass of chilled wine, a few close friends, and a good chat, and you’ve got yourself the perfect afternoon.