There’s nothing quite like the comforting scent of a Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake wafting through the house on a leisurely Sunday morning. Imagine slicing into a golden, custardy delight that not only looks beautiful but also promises to kick-start your day with indulgent flavors. This savory breakfast casserole takes the classic essence of French toast and transforms it into an effortlessly elegant dish that can be prepped the night before.
You might be surprised at how simple it is to create this stunning centerpiece using leftover bread, crispy bacon, and a blend of creamy cheese. Whether you’re hosting brunch or simply treating yourself and loved ones, this customizable strata offers a touch of gourmet without the fuss. So, let’s dive into this recipe that promises to bring joy to your breakfast table, leaving traditional fast food far behind!
Why will you love Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake?
Deliciously Customizable: This Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake allows you to easily swap in your favorite ingredients, ensuring everyone at the table finds something they love.
Effortlessly Elegant: Serve it straight from the oven for an impressive brunch centerpiece that looks as delightful as it tastes.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep this breakfast casserole the night before, giving you more time to relax in the morning.
Satisfying and Filling: With a rich blend of eggs, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese, each bite is comforting and indulgent, making it perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.
Zero Waste: Utilize leftover bread and avoid waste, turning ordinary ingredients into a delicious masterpiece!
Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake Ingredients
For the Batter
• Bacon (300g / 10 oz) – Adds savory flavor and fat for richness; substitute with ham or breakfast sausage for variation.
• Eggs (6 large) – Provides structure and custard-like texture; ensure they are fresh for best results.
• Milk (1 1/4 cups) – Adds moisture and creaminess; can use low-fat or full cream.
• Salt (1/4 tsp) – Enhances flavors; adjust to taste if using salted bacon.
• Black Pepper – Adds a hint of spice; can be omitted based on preference.
• Bread (7 cups packed, cubed) – Serves as the base; stale bread preferred for better absorption of the egg mixture. Use plain white or wholemeal bread for the best texture.
For the Cheese Layer
• Cheese (2 cups shredded) – Melts beautifully for a creamy texture; cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack are great options—avoid mozzarella for best flavor.
For Garnish
• Parsley (optional) – Adds freshness and color; substitute with other herbs like chives for variation.
How to Make Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake
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Prep Bacon: Cook the diced bacon in a non-stick pan over high heat until it turns lightly browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat and reserve the bacon for topping later.
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Whisk Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is well blended and slightly frothy for a fluffy custard base.
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Soak Bread: Gently fold in the cubed bread, cooked bacon, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese into the egg mixture. Make sure everything is mixed well and let it soak for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F), ensuring it reaches the right temperature for even baking.
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Prepare Cake Pan: Generously grease a springform cake pan to prevent sticking. Fill it with the soaked bread mixture, pressing down slightly to create a compact layer.
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Add Toppings: Scatter the remaining bacon and cheese over the top. Cover loosely with foil to help it retain moisture during baking.
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Bake: Place in the oven and bake covered for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and a skewer inserted comes out clean.
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Rest & Serve: Take it out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Slice into wedges and serve warm, enjoying the delightful combination of flavors.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added color and a burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake Variations
Elevate your Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake with these delightful twists that cater to your personal taste and dietary needs!
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Vegetarian: Swap bacon for sautéed mushrooms or spinach, keeping that savory depth while offering a plant-based option.
Imagine the earthiness of mushrooms melding beautifully with the creamy cheese, making every bite a flavor-packed experience. -
Dairy-Free: Use nutritional yeast, almond milk, and dairy-free cheese to create a luscious, creamy texture without the dairy.
This variation not only caters to lactose-intolerance but also brings a nutty flavor that harmonizes well with the other ingredients. -
Spicy Kick: Spice things up by adding diced jalapeños or a squeeze of Sriracha to the egg mixture.
The heat adds an exciting layer that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy cheese and the savory bacon. -
Herbed Delight: Infuse fresh herbs, such as thyme or oregano, into the mix for a fragrant burst of freshness.
These herbs can elevate the dish, making each bite feel like a walk through a fragrant herb garden, adding depth to its flavor profile. -
Gourmet Touch: Substitute regular cheese with a luxurious truffle-infused cheese for an elegant flavor upgrade.
The truffle aroma will transform your strata into a gourmet delight that impresses every palate at your brunch gathering. -
Nutty Crunch: Mix in some toasted nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft custard.
Each bite will offer a surprise crunch, adding an enjoyable texture that rounds out the dish. -
Smoky Flavor: Replace bacon with smoked turkey or even smoked tofu for a twist that enhances the dish’s richness.
This alternative introduces a delightful smokiness that pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the cheese. -
Zesty Citrus: Add a hint of lemon zest to the egg mixture to give your strata a bright and lively twist.
This subtle addition cuts through the richness, making the dish wonderfully refreshing as well as savory.
What to Serve with Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake?
Imagine gathering around the breakfast table, indulging in comforting dishes that beautifully complement your strata cake for a perfect start to the day.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing burst of sweetness, balancing the savory notes of the strata.
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Arugula Salad: A simple, peppery arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette offers a light and zesty contrast to the richness of your dish. It’s the perfect palate cleanser to keep your brunch lively.
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Crispy Hash Browns: Golden, crispy hash browns deliver a satisfying crunch and heartiness, bringing a classic breakfast feel that pairs harmoniously with the creamy strata.
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Savory Scones: Flaky, cheese-studded scones are a delightful addition, adding texture and flavor complexity that elevates your brunch experience.
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Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt, granola, and fruit create a wholesome, creamy parfait that not only looks gorgeous but contrasts perfectly with the cheesy strata.
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Bloody Marys: A tangy Bloody Mary complements the savory strata beautifully, providing a brunch staple that pairs perfectly with brunch gatherings.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup can add an unexpected sweet touch, enhancing the flavors of the bacon and cheese for an extraordinary twist.
Pair these suggestions with your Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake for a brunch spread that impresses and satisfies everyone at the table!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious breakfast with minimal morning fuss. You can soak the bread mixture up to 24 hours in advance, letting it develop richer flavors overnight. Simply combine the cubed bread, cooked bacon, and egg mixture, then store it in the refrigerator. For the best results, cover the pan tightly to maintain moisture and prevent drying. When ready to bake, preheat your oven, add the remaining cheese and bacon on top, and bake as directed. You’ll have a delightful breakfast casserole that tastes just as delicious as if made fresh that morning!
How to Store and Freeze Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Wrap the cooled strata cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and keep it good for up to three months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm slices in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Serving Tip: This cheese & bacon strata cake makes a fantastic meal prep option; it’s just as delicious when reheated, so you can enjoy it even on busy mornings!
Expert Tips for Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake
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Choose Stale Bread: Using stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better, yielding a creamier cheese & bacon strata cake. Avoid fresh bread to prevent sogginess.
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Don’t Rush Soaking: Allow the bread to soak for at least 30 minutes or overnight. This ensures the flavors meld beautifully for a rich texture.
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Properly Grease the Pan: Always grease your springform pan generously to avoid sticking. This step is crucial for a clean release of your stratified masterpiece.
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Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking process! Oven temperatures can vary, so check for a golden top and a clean skewer insertion to avoid undercooking.
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Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap out bacon or cheese as desired. Just ensure any substitutes complement the dish without overwhelming the classic flavors.
Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of bread should I use for the Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake?
I recommend using stale bread, as it absorbs the egg mixture much better than fresh. Plain white or wholemeal bread works best, providing a great texture. If you only have fresh bread, you can dry it out in the oven for a few minutes to achieve a similar effect.
How long can I store leftovers from the Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to retain its deliciousness!
Can I freeze my Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled strata tightly in plastic wrap and then cover it in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes.
What if my Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake is too dry?
If you find your strata is dry after baking, it could be due to insufficient soaking time. For next time, make sure to let the bread soak for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight. Additionally, be cautious with your oven temperature; a higher temperature than recommended can lead to dryness.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
While the original recipe contains bacon and dairy, it can easily be adapted. Substitute bacon with turkey bacon or vegetarian sausage for a meat-free option. You can use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives as well, making this dish suitable for lactose intolerance or a vegan diet. Just remember to adjust the cooking times as necessary!
How can I enhance the flavor of the Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake?
To elevate the flavor, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Fresh herbs, such as thyme or chives, mixed into the egg mixture, can also bring additional freshness. Experimenting with different cheeses like feta or spicy pepper jack can add depth, too!
Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake - Your Ultimate Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the diced bacon in a non-stick pan over high heat until it turns lightly browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and reserve the bacon for topping later.
- In a large bowl, combine the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is well blended and slightly frothy for a fluffy custard base.
- Gently fold in the cubed bread, cooked bacon, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese into the egg mixture. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight in the fridge.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Ensure it reaches the right temperature for even baking.
- Generously grease a springform cake pan to prevent sticking. Fill it with the soaked bread mixture, pressing down slightly.
- Scatter the remaining bacon and cheese over the top. Cover loosely with foil to help retain moisture during baking.
- Place in the oven and bake covered for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown and a skewer inserted comes out clean.
- Take it out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Slice into wedges and serve warm.