Savory Bacon and Crab Bread Pudding Eggs Benedict with Creamy Hollandaise – A Luxurious Brunch Masterpiece
Savory Bacon and Crab Bread Pudding Eggs Benedict is a decadent brunch dish that elevates the traditional recipe.It replaces English muffins with a rich, custardy bread pudding.Smoky bacon and sweet crab create a perfect flavor balance.Poached eggs add creaminess and elegance.Hollandaise sauce brings buttery richness and tang.Ideal for holidays, celebrations, and gourmet brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding Base:
- 6 cups day-old brioche or crusty bread, cubed
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup lump crab meat (shells removed)
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or sharp cheddar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Poached Eggs:
- 4–6 large eggs
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
For the Hollandaise Sauce:
- 3 egg yolks
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Pinch cayenne pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Bread Pudding: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in bread cubes, bacon, crab, and cheese. Pour mixture into baking dish.
- Bake 40–45 minutes until golden and set. Let cool slightly before slicing.
- Poach Eggs: Bring water to a gentle simmer, add vinegar. Crack eggs into water and cook 3–4 minutes. Remove with slotted spoon.
- Make Hollandaise: Whisk egg yolks over a double boiler until thickened. Slowly drizzle in melted butter while whisking. Add lemon juice, cayenne, and salt.
- Assemble by placing a slice of bread pudding on a plate, topping with poached egg and spooning hollandaise over the top. Garnish with chives.
Notes
- Use high-quality lump crab meat for best flavour.
- Day-old bread works best to absorb custard properly.
- Do not overbake; bread pudding should remain moist inside.
- Fresh lemon juice enhances hollandaise flavour.
- Hollandaise is best served immediately.
- Keep poached eggs warm in hot water before serving.
- Thick-cut bacon adds better texture.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for brightness.