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.
