A Savory, Custardy Baked Egg Dish with Crispy Bacon Crunch

This Cheese & Bacon Breakfast Strata Cake is a rich, custard-like baked egg dish layered with tender bread, smoky bacon, and melted cheese. With a texture that’s soft in the center and golden on top, it’s perfect for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or a hearty breakfast-for-dinner night.

A cross between bread pudding and a frittata—served warm, straight from the oven!


Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • 🧀 Cheesy Goodness: Shredded cheddar, Gruyère, or mozzarella adds depth and richness.
  • 🥓 Bacon Boost: Diced cooked bacon and raw bacon scattered on top deliver both tender and crispy bites.
  • 🥚 Custard Magic: Eggs and milk create a silky, custard-like texture that soaks into every bread layer.
  • ⏱️ Make-Ahead Marvel: Soak the bread overnight for stress-free morning baking.
  • 🎉 Great for Groups: Ideal for family breakfasts, brunch parties, or meal prep.

Ingredients (Serves 8):

For the Strata:

  • 300g (10 oz) bacon , diced (or ham for variation)
  • 6 large eggs (room temperature for smooth blending)
  • 1¼ cups (300ml) milk (whole, low-fat, or oat/almond for dairy-free)
  • ¼ tsp salt (plus black pepper to taste)
  • 7 cups bread cubes (about 1 lb – use slightly stale brioche, sourdough, or French bread)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or vegan cheese for plant-based)

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley or chives , chopped
  • Hot sauce or ketchup for serving

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) .

In a large non-stick skillet , cook bacon over medium-high heat until lightly browned (about 5–7 minutes ). Reserve 2 tbsp of bacon fat and 2 tbsp uncooked bacon for topping.

Drain cooked bacon on paper towels and set aside.


Step 2: Whisk the Custard

In a large bowl or measuring jug:

  • Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until fully combined.

Step 3: Soak the Bread Mixture

In a large bowl, mix:

  • Bread cubes
  • 1½ cups cheese
  • Cooked bacon

Pour custard over the top and gently press the bread down to ensure full absorption.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes , or overnight for deeper flavor.

Pro Tip: The bread should soak up all the egg mixture—no liquid left at the bottom.


Step 4: Assemble & Bake

Grease a 9-inch springform pan or 9×13-inch baking dish .

Transfer the soaked bread mixture to the pan and press down gently.

Scatter reserved raw bacon bits and ½ cup cheese over the top.

Loosely cover with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes .

Remove foil and bake 15–20 minutes longer , or until golden and set—insert a knife; it should come out clean.


Step 5: Rest & Serve Warm

Let cool for 5 minutes , then carefully remove from the pan.

Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.

Serve warm in thick slices with:

  • A side of fruit salad
  • Hash browns or roasted potatoes
  • A drizzle of hot sauce or mustard

Each bite brings together:

  • Silky, custardy egg pockets
  • Smoky, crispy bacon bites
  • Golden, melted cheese crown
  • And that classic breakfast comfort charm

Tips for Success:

  • 🧈 Use Stale Bread: Ensures better absorption without turning mushy.
  • 🧀 Cheese Swap Magic: Try goat cheese, Swiss, or Parmesan for different finishes.
  • 🥣 Soak Overnight: Enhances flavor and ensures even baking.
  • 🥟 Press Firmly: Helps the layers set properly—use a spatula or your hands.
  • ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Assemble and refrigerate overnight—bake fresh in the morning.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Pair with coffee, tea, or a mimosa for brunch.
  • Great with avocado toast, roasted tomatoes, or a green salad .
  • Ideal for brunch gatherings, school lunches, or solo indulgence .

Nutritional Information (per slice, makes 8 – approximate):

(With regular cheese and bacon – per serving)

  • Calories: ~350 kcal
  • Protein: ~15g
  • Carbohydrates: ~20g
  • Fat: ~20g
  • Fiber: ~1g
  • Sugar: ~3g

This Cheese & Bacon Breakfast Strata Cake proves that breakfast doesn’t have to be boring to be comforting. With its custard-like finish, crispy bacon crust, and stretchy cheese layers—it’s a must-bake for lovers of rich, savory breakfasts.


Additional Notes:

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread and cornstarch in the custard (optional).
  • Vegan Swap: Replace eggs with tofu scramble, use vegan cheese and plant-based milk.
  • Storage Tip: Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days—reheat in oven for best texture.
  • Flavor Hack: Add a dash of hot sauce, herbs, or Dijon mustard to the custard for extra depth.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Bake and slice ahead—store chilled and reheat in toaster oven.

Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, use pre-made egg custard and store-bought bread cubes .
Serving Idea: Top with a poached egg and hollandaise for a Breakfast Casserole Twist .
History Fun: Strata cakes are a modern twist on bread puddings , a European peasant dish turned American brunch staple.

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