In a large skillet, or on a griddle, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Transfer to paper towels to drain; reserve 1/3 cup bacon drippings.

Cool bacon to room temperature, crumble, and set aside.

Preheat oven to 350°. In a large bowl, combine next 4 ingredients.

In a medium bowl, whisk together reserved bacon drippings and the next 3 ingredients.

Add wet mixture to dry ingredients. Stir until moistened.

Fold in bacon.

Pour batter into a greased 5 x 9-inch loaf pan.

Bake at 350° for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Cool in pan 10 minutes then turn onto a wire rack to cool completely.