Bacon Rose Quiche is a delightful and visually stunning dish that combines the savory goodness of bacon with a rich, creamy quiche. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light lunch, this quiche is not only delicious but also impressive in presentation. The “roses” made of bacon give the quiche a unique and beautiful look, making it a great centerpiece for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply want to treat yourself to a gourmet breakfast, this Bacon Rose Quiche is sure to please.
Ingredients for Bacon Rose Quiche
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 4-5 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How to Make Bacon Rose Quiche
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Combine flour and salt: In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and salt.
- Cut in the butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add ice water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough starts to come together.
- Form the dough: Gather the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon Roses
- Preheat your oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Form the roses: Roll each slice of bacon into a rose shape. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
- Bake the bacon: Place the bacon roses on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is cooked but not too crispy. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- Whisk the eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and heavy cream until well combined.
- Add seasonings: Stir in the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
- Add cheese: Mix in the shredded Gruyère and cheddar cheeses.
- Add green onions: Fold in the chopped green onions and parsley, if using.
Step 4: Assemble the Quiche
- Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the dough to the pie dish, trimming any excess.
- Pre-bake the crust: Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 10-12 minutes, then remove the parchment paper and weights and bake for another 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Add the filling: Pour the egg and cheese mixture into the pre-baked crust.
- Arrange the bacon roses: Gently place the bacon roses into the filling, spacing them evenly around the quiche.
Step 5: Bake the Quiche
- Bake: Place the assembled quiche in the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
- Cool: Allow the quiche to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
About the Main Ingredients
Bacon
Bacon is a beloved breakfast staple known for its rich, savory flavor and crispy texture. In this recipe, bacon is transformed into elegant “roses” that not only add a beautiful touch to the quiche but also infuse it with a smoky, meaty flavor. When choosing bacon, opt for thick-cut varieties, which are easier to shape and hold their form better during baking.
Gruyère Cheese
Gruyère is a Swiss cheese known for its nutty and slightly sweet flavor. It melts beautifully, making it a perfect choice for quiches and other baked dishes. In this quiche, Gruyère adds depth and richness to the filling, complementing the other ingredients without overpowering them.
Eggs
Eggs are the foundation of any quiche, providing structure and a creamy texture. They bind the other ingredients together and create a custard-like consistency when baked. Fresh, high-quality eggs are essential for the best flavor and texture.
Milk and Heavy Cream
The combination of milk and heavy cream creates a rich and silky filling for the quiche. The cream adds a luxurious texture, while the milk helps to lighten it slightly. Using both ensures a balanced custard that is neither too heavy nor too light.
Green Onions
Green onions add a mild, fresh flavor and a pop of color to the quiche. They complement the richness of the bacon and cheese, providing a subtle onion flavor without being overpowering. Fresh green onions are best, but they can be substituted with chives or finely chopped regular onions if needed.
Nutmeg
A pinch of nutmeg adds a warm, slightly sweet spice that enhances the overall flavor of the quiche. Nutmeg is commonly used in custards and cream-based dishes for its ability to add depth and complexity. Just a small amount is enough to make a noticeable difference.
Pie Crust
The pie crust serves as the base for the quiche, providing a flaky, buttery texture that contrasts with the creamy filling. Making the crust from scratch ensures a tender and flavorful result, but store-bought crust can be used for convenience. Be sure to pre-bake the crust to prevent it from becoming soggy when the filling is added.
Bacon Rose Quiche is a delightful and impressive dish that combines the classic flavors of bacon, eggs, and cheese in a visually stunning presentation. Perfect for any occasion, this quiche is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the savory goodness and beautiful appearance of this unique breakfast or brunch treat.
