If you're a fan of the egg bites served at the well - known coffee chain, you're in for a treat. These bacon and gruyère egg bites are not only a delicious breakfast option but also a great way to save some money and have more control over what goes into your food. Let's dive into the world of making these copycat egg bites right in your own kitchen.
First, let's talk about the ingredients. You'll need eggs, of course. Eggs are the base of these egg bites and provide the protein that will keep you full throughout the morning. For the bacon, choose high - quality bacon strips. You can either cook the bacon in the oven or on the stovetop until it's crispy. Once cooked, crumble the bacon into small pieces. The gruyère cheese adds a rich and nutty flavor. Shred the gruyère cheese so that it melts evenly in the egg bites.
You'll also need some other ingredients to enhance the flavor. A little bit of milk or cream can make the egg bites creamier. You can use whole milk for a richer taste or skim milk if you're looking for a lighter option. Salt and pepper are essential seasonings to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients. You might also want to add a pinch of paprika for a bit of color and a subtle smoky flavor.
Now, let's move on to the preparation. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a muffin tin or use silicone egg bite molds. These molds are specifically designed for making egg bites and make the process much easier. In a large bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them well. Add the milk or cream, salt, pepper, and paprika to the eggs and whisk again until everything is well combined.
Next, add the crumbled bacon and shredded gruyère cheese to the egg mixture. Stir gently to distribute the bacon and cheese evenly throughout the eggs. Pour the egg mixture into the greased muffin tin or egg bite molds. Fill each mold about three - quarters full. You can use a spoon or a ladle to make the pouring process neater.
Once the egg mixture is in the molds, place the muffin tin or molds in a baking dish. Pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the muffin tin or molds. This water bath helps to cook the egg bites evenly and prevents them from cracking on the surface. Bake the egg bites in the preheated oven for about 20 - 25 minutes, or until the eggs are set and a toothpick inserted into the center of an egg bite comes out clean.
After baking, let the egg bites cool in the molds for a few minutes. Then, use a small knife or a spoon to gently loosen the edges of the egg bites and remove them from the molds. You can serve the egg bites immediately, or let them cool completely and store them in the refrigerator for later. They make a great grab - and - go breakfast option, especially on busy mornings.
One of the great things about making these egg bites at home is that you can customize them to your liking. If you don't like bacon, you can substitute it with sausage, ham, or even vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. You can also experiment with different types of cheese. For example, cheddar cheese will give the egg bites a sharp and tangy flavor, while mozzarella cheese will make them extra cheesy and gooey.
Another advantage is the cost. Buying egg bites from the coffee chain can add up over time, especially if you're a regular customer. By making them at home, you can make a large batch for a fraction of the cost. You can also make more servings, which is great if you have a family or if you like to meal - prep for the week.
In conclusion, making your own bacon and gruyère egg bites at home is a fun and rewarding experience. It allows you to enjoy the same delicious flavors as the ones from the coffee chain while saving money and having the flexibility to customize the recipe. So, the next time you're craving those egg bites, don't head to the coffee shop. Instead, put on your apron and start cooking in your own kitchen.