Bacon Brunch Ring: A Showstopper Breakfast Centerpiece
A flaky, flavor-packed twist on morning favorites that steals the spotlight at any table.
Nothing brings smiles to a breakfast table quite like a showstopping centerpiece—especially when it’s built with flaky pastry, crispy bacon, and a luscious filling of eggs, ham, cheese, and vegetables. The Bacon Brunch Ring is a visually striking and delightfully satisfying recipe perfect for weekend gatherings, holiday brunches, or any time you want to wow your guests. Let’s dive into every detail, from essential ingredients to foolproof assembly strategies, and a few expert tips to make this the highlight of your next breakfast spread.
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Bacon Brunch Ring
- Ingredients
- Equipment You’ll Need
- Step-by-Step Directions
- Expert Tips & Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why You’ll Love This Bacon Brunch Ring
This brunch ring isn’t just another breakfast casserole—it’s a feast for the eyes and taste buds. The secret is in the clever layering of flavors and textures:
- Flaky puff pastry forms a crisp, golden shell.
- Thick-cut bacon adds smoky, salty crunch throughout.
- Soft-scrambled eggs, studded with ham, peppers, and onions, provide a creamy, savory filling.
- Melty cheese brings it all together.
- Sesame seeds add a toasty, nutty finish.
As the ring bakes, the aroma of sizzling bacon and fresh pastry fills the kitchen, making it nearly impossible to resist sneaking a slice straight from the oven.
Ingredients
Each component of the ring plays an important role. Here’s what you’ll need for a classic bacon brunch ring, with suggested swaps and options noted where possible:
- Bacon: 5 slices. The base of the ring’s rich flavor and crunch.
- Eggs: 6 large, divided (5 for the filling, 1 for the egg wash).
- Kosher salt: 1/4 tsp. Bake-level seasoning.
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp. For savory depth.
- Diced ham: 2 oz. Optional, but adds greater heft and more smoky, meaty bite.
- Green bell pepper: 1/3 cup, chopped. Beautiful color and crunch.
- Red onion: 1/3 cup, chopped. Sweet sharpness and aroma.
- Puff pastry: 1 sheet (from a 17.3 oz package), fully thawed. Forms the crisp, buttery crust.
- Flour: For dusting and easy rolling.
- Cheddar Jack cheese: 1 cup, shredded. Melty and flavorful.
- Sesame seeds: 1 Tbsp. Optional, but they add a delightful crunch and finish.
- Water: For whisking with the egg wash.
Possible Variations: You can swap out the vegetables with what you have on hand (e.g., spinach, mushrooms), use another cheese (like Swiss or mozzarella), or even try turkey bacon for a lighter twist.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large non-stick skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Rubber spatula
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Rolling pin
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small 4-inch bowl (for shaping the ring)
- Pastry brush (for the egg wash)
Step-by-Step Directions
If you follow these directions, you’ll end up with a brunch centerpiece that will disappear almost as soon as it hits the table.
- Cook the Bacon
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the bacon until most fat renders but it isn’t fully crisp—about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Remove excess bacon fat, leaving 1 tablespoon in the skillet.
- Prepare the Egg Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whisk 5 eggs with salt and pepper.
- In the same skillet, add diced ham, green pepper, and red onion.
- Sauté for 4–5 minutes, until vegetables soften slightly.
- Pour in the egg mixture and let it sit for 1 minute.
- Using a rubber spatula, gently push eggs from the middle to the outer edges, leaving the eggs in large, soft pieces. Continue until just softly set (moist, not dry—about 4 minutes total).
- Transfer eggs to a plate and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Pastry Ring
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry into a roughly 15″ x 10″ rectangle.
- Cut into 5 smaller rectangles (about 3 inches wide), then each rectangle diagonally to make 10 long triangles.
- Arrange the triangles, pointed end facing out, in a circular ‘sunburst’ pattern around a small bowl placed in the center of your baking sheet. Short sides should overlap each other by about 1 inch. Once the circle is formed, remove the bowl.
- Assemble the Brunch Ring
- Cut bacon slices in half. Place each piece at the base of each pastry triangle (closest to the center opening).
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese atop the bacon layer.
- Spoon the cooked egg mixture over the cheese and bacon.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the eggs.
- Trim about 2 inches off the outer, pointed ends of each triangle (to prevent overhang).
- Fold each triangle over the filling and tuck the point under the inside edge, fully enclosing the filling, overlapping as you go to form a ring.
- Egg Wash and Topping
- Beat the remaining egg with 1 tablespoon water to create an egg wash.
- Brush the entire top of the ring generously with the egg wash.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds for a nutty crunch and striking finish.
- Bake and Serve
- Bake for 15–17 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown, puffed, and crisp.
- Let the ring rest for 5 minutes after baking—this makes slicing easier and keeps the filling intact.
- Carefully transfer to a cutting or serving board using a large spatula or two.
- Slice and Enjoy
- Cut into wedges and serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Don’t Overcook the Eggs: Leave eggs slightly underdone in the skillet. They’ll finish in the oven, staying moist and creamy.
- Prepare in Advance: Assemble the ring up to the point of baking the night before, refrigerate covered, and bake fresh in the morning.
- Try Crescent Roll Dough: For a shortcut or slightly different flavor profile, use crescent rolls instead of puff pastry. Texture will be a little less flaky but just as satisfying.
- Add More Veggies: Spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes all work beautifully.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or diced jalapeño to the egg filling for subtle heat.
Serving Suggestions
This brunch ring makes an eye-catching centerpiece for any breakfast buffet or brunch spread. For larger gatherings, pair with:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Crispy breakfast potatoes or hash browns
- Freshly squeezed orange juice or mimosas
- A simple green salad for a lighter brunch
Slices can be reheated in a low oven or covered skillet, but it’s best enjoyed straight from the oven while the pastry is crisp.
What others are reading
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this brunch ring ahead of time?
A: Yes—assemble the ring (up to the baking step), then cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely. Cool completely, wrap individual wedges tightly, and freeze. Reheat in the oven (not microwave) for best texture.
Q: What can I substitute for puff pastry?
A: Crescent roll dough is a popular swap that creates a slightly softer crust. The process is the same, but watch the bake time as it may brown more quickly.
Q: How do I prevent a soggy bottom?
A: Let the filling cool before assembling the ring, and avoid adding extra liquid ingredients to the eggs or veggies. Bake on parchment for easy, even browning.
Q: Is it possible to make this meatless?
A: Yes! Omit bacon and ham, and add more veggies or use a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version. Increase the cheese slightly for extra richness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Estimated)
| Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbohydrates | Fiber | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 310 | 14g | 22g | 18g | 2g | 670mg |
*Nutrition will vary depending on ingredients and portion size.
Inspiration And More Brunch Ideas
The bacon brunch ring draws inspiration from classic breakfast flavors—a mashup of quiche, breakfast casserole, and pastry. For even more breakfast and brunch inspiration:
- Bacon Egg And Cheese Breakfast Ring: Use crescent roll dough for extra buttery, tender crust (see more).
- Crescent Bacon Breakfast Ring: Add your favorite ingredients and experiment with shapes for a personal twist.
- Try filling mini puff pastry cups with the same mixture for bite-sized breakfast snacks.
Summary
A brunch ring is more than just breakfast—it’s an edible centerpiece that transforms any gathering into a special occasion. Bursting with eggs, bacon, cheese, and your favorite vegetables in a flaky, golden pastry, it’s guaranteed to draw ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’ at the table. Prep ahead for stress-free entertaining, or try it as the highlight of a relaxing weekend breakfast at home. Enjoy!
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a36201798/bacon-brunch-ring-recipe/
- https://crazyadventuresinparenting.com/2014/09/bacon-egg-and-cheese-breakfast-ring.html
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V-iWEQJ9758
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g40654153/bacon-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g35549541/mothers-day-brunch/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g38583568/new-years-day-brunch/
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