A golden, custardy breakfast bake that looks like a celebration but feels like home.
This Cheese & Bacon Breakfast Strata Cake transforms humble, everyday ingredients into a stunning brunch centerpiece. Think of it as a savory cake that layers the best parts of a quiche, French toast, and a hearty omelet—all baked into one satisfying dish. With crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and custard-soaked bread, this strata bakes into a beautifully sliceable “cake” that’s ideal for feeding a crowd.
What makes this recipe special isn’t just the flavor, though there’s plenty of that. It’s the fact that you can prepare it the night before and simply bake in the morning. It’s elegant enough for entertaining and easy enough for weekend mornings with the family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Make-ahead friendly – prep it the night before
- Crowd-pleasing – serves 8 and slices beautifully
- Customizable – swap cheeses, meats, or add herbs
- Visually impressive – bakes tall and golden in a springform pan
- Minimal morning effort – just bake and serve
Ingredients
Bread & Custard
- 7 cups cubed day-old bread (baguette, Italian loaf, or sourdough), crusts on
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk (or 1 cup milk + 1 cup heavy cream for a richer version)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
- Salt to taste (adjust depending on saltiness of bacon/cheese)
Add-ins
- 6 oz thick-cut bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- Optional: ½ cup sautéed onions, garlic, or chopped herbs like chives or thyme
For Baking
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for greasing pan)
- Optional garnish: fresh herbs for serving
Equipment
- 9-inch springform pan (for cake-like presentation) or deep 9×9 baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Sheet pan (to dry bread if fresh)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread
- Cut bread into 1-inch cubes.
- If the bread is very fresh, spread on a baking sheet and let it dry out for 30–60 minutes at room temp or bake at 300°F for 10 minutes.
2. Make the Custard
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs thoroughly.
- Add milk, Dijon mustard, black pepper, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.
- Let sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
3. Assemble the Strata
- Generously butter your springform pan, including the sides.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes, chopped bacon, and shredded cheeses. (Fold in optional add-ins like herbs or onions here.)
- Pour in the custard and toss everything until the bread is fully soaked. Let sit for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight, covered.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan, pressing down lightly to remove air pockets and create a uniform shape.
4. Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet (to catch any drips).
- Bake uncovered for 50–60 minutes, or until puffed and golden on top and the center is set (a knife inserted in the center should come out clean).
- Let rest for 10–15 minutes before unmolding.
5. Serve
- Carefully release and remove the sides of the springform pan.
- Slice like a cake and serve warm. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Make-Ahead Tips
- For best results, assemble the night before, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate.
- Bake straight from the fridge the next morning—just add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if very cold.
Customization Ideas
- Cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, Swiss, feta, or Parmesan.
- Meats: Swap bacon for cooked sausage, ham, or even smoked salmon.
- Veggies: Add spinach, bell peppers, roasted mushrooms, or sautéed leeks.
- Seasonings: A touch of paprika or hot sauce in the custard adds kick.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or roasted potatoes
- Serve on a cake stand for a dramatic brunch presentation
- Drizzle with a little maple syrup for a sweet-savory combo
Storage & Reheating
- Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Reheat: Warm slices in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave in 30-second bursts
- Freeze: Can be frozen (whole or in slices) for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge first
Final Thought
This Cheese & Bacon Breakfast Strata Cake is everything you want in a breakfast centerpiece: indulgent, easy, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday brunch or prepping it ahead for a weekend treat, it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy.