As the weekend approaches, the excitement for a leisurely brunch often fills the air. Imagine the inviting aroma of crispy bacon mingling with the freshness of heirloom tomatoes and peppery arugula, all topped off with a luxuriously smooth hollandaise sauce. This isn’t just any brunch dish; it’s my take on a classic favorite—BLT Eggs Benedict.
In this delightful recipe, we elevate the traditional eggs Benedict by introducing candied bacon, a sweet and savory surprise that adds a delightful crunch to every bite. In less than an hour, you can craft a meal that’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a sure crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a special morning, this irresistible dish promises to turn your brunch table into a gourmet experience. Let’s dive into creating these beautiful layers of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why love BLT Eggs Benedict?
Unique twist: This recipe transforms the classic eggs Benedict by incorporating candied bacon for an irresistible sweet-salty combination that enhances flavors and textures.
Quick Preparation: In just under an hour, you can whip up this flavorful dish, making it perfect for brunch without the hours of cooking.
Crowd-pleaser: Your guests will rave about this delightful meal, ensuring that it quickly becomes a brunch staple in your home.
Flavorful Layers: The combination of fresh heirloom tomatoes, arugula, and a spiced hollandaise sauce creates a harmonious blend that keeps each bite exciting.
Easy Alternatives: Whether you want to swap bacon for smoked salmon or add sautéed veggies, the versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it to your taste!
For more delicious brunch ideas, check out our guide on creative brunch recipes.
BLT Eggs Benedict Ingredients
For the Candied Bacon
• Bacon – Choose thick-cut for the best texture and flavor.
• Maple Syrup – Adds a sweet element to complement the savory bacon.
• Light Brown Sugar – Enhances caramelization; dark brown sugar can be used for a richer taste.
• Cayenne Pepper – Offers a hint of heat; adjust to taste or skip for milder flavor.
For the Hollandaise Sauce
• Egg Yolks – Creates a rich and creamy sauce; whisk gently to avoid overcooking.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Balances richness; white wine vinegar is a great substitute.
• Unsalted Butter – Essential for smooth hollandaise; use clarified butter for stability.
• Chili Powder and Smoked Paprika – Adds depth; customize according to your spice preference.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors; sea salt works well too.
For Assembling the Benedict
• Eggs – Poached for the eggs Benedict; ensure they are fresh for the best results.
• English Muffins – Toasted adds a delightful crunch; can swap for gluten-free options.
• Unsalted Butter (for muffins) – Richness enhancer; olive oil can be a healthier option.
• Arugula – Provides a peppery note; substitute with spinach for a milder flavor.
• Heirloom/Beefsteak Tomato – Fresh, juicy addition; any ripe tomato variety will work well.
This BLT Eggs Benedict comes together with layers of flavor that will impress everyone at your brunch table!
How to Make BLT Eggs Benedict
Candy the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook thick-cut bacon with maple syrup and light brown sugar until crispy and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside on paper towels to drain.
Prepare Hollandaise: In a bowl, whisk 3 egg yolks and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice together until thick. Gradually incorporate 1 cup of melted unsalted butter, whisking continuously until smooth. Stir in cayenne, chili powder, smoked paprika, and kosher salt to taste.
Poach Eggs: Bring a pot of water to a gentle simmer and add a splash of white vinegar. Crack fresh eggs into the simmering water and poach for about 3-4 minutes, until the whites are set but yolks remain runny. Remove with a slotted spoon.
Toast Muffins: While the eggs poach, split and toast 2 English muffins until golden. Spread softened unsalted butter on each half.
Assemble: On each muffin half, layer arugula and slices of heirloom tomato, top with a poached egg, drizzle generously with hollandaise sauce, and finish off with pieces of candied bacon.
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful BLT Eggs Benedict are perfect for busy cooks who love to meal prep! You can prepare the candied bacon up to 3 days in advance, storing it tightly in the refrigerator to maintain its crispness. The hollandaise sauce can also be made ahead, just remember to gently warm it before serving to keep it creamy and smooth. For the assembly, slice the English muffins and prep your arugula and heirloom tomatoes a day before; they can stay fresh in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply poach your eggs and assemble the dish, and you’ll have a brunch masterpiece with minimal effort—deliciously satisfying and ready in no time!
What to Serve with BLT Eggs Benedict?
Elevate your brunch experience with delightful sides that awaken the palate and complement the savory richness of your eggs Benedict.
- Seasonal Fruit Salad: Freshly cut fruit adds a vibrant color and sweetness, balancing the savory flavors of your dish.
- Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Their crunchy exterior and fluffy interior create a satisfying contrast alongside the creamy hollandaise and poached egg.
- Light Arugula Salad: Dressed simply with lemon and olive oil, it highlights the peppery notes of arugula in your Benedict.
- Chilled Sparkling Water: Bubbly and refreshing, it cleanses the palate between bites of that rich candied bacon.
- Herbed Cream Cheese Toasts: Spread on crispy baguette slices, these toasts add a creamy tang and herbal freshness to the table.
- Mimosas: A classic brunch drink that combines tangy citrus with bubbly perfection, enhancing your festive meal.
A combination of these sweet, savory, and refreshing elements will create a truly unforgettable brunch that’s perfect for gatherings and special occasions alike!
BLT Eggs Benedict Variations
Customize your BLT Eggs Benedict to suit your taste buds with these exciting twists and dietary swaps!
Smoked Salmon: Replace bacon with smoked salmon for a rich, ocean-inspired flavor. This variation adds a delightful touch and pairs wonderfully with hollandaise.
Vegan Option: Use tempeh bacon or marinated tofu instead of traditional bacon. When sautéed, these plant-based options will bring texture and flavor while keeping things vegan.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle extra cayenne or add sliced jalapeños for a spicy rendition. This will wake up your taste buds and make your brunch feel uniquely bold!
Avocado Bliss: Incorporate sliced avocado for a creamy twist. The buttery texture complements the eggs beautifully and adds healthy fats for a satisfying bite.
Herby Hollandaise: Mix in freshly chopped herbs like dill or chives into your hollandaise for an aromatic lift. This adds a fresh, flavorful dimension to the rich sauce.
Sweet Tomato Surprise: Use grilled or roasted tomatoes instead of fresh heirloom for a deeper, sweeter flavor profile. The warmth of roasted tomatoes creates a heartier dish.
Gluten-Free Muffins: Swap regular English muffins for gluten-free bagels or muffins to cater to gluten-sensitive guests. The bagels’ chewy texture will create a unique twist on the classic.
Veggie Medley: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes to the assemblage for a veggie-packed version. This not only adds color but also boosts nutrition, making every bite a wholesome experience.
Feel free to mix and match these variations – the possibilities are endless!
Expert Tips for BLT Eggs Benedict
Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh eggs and ripe heirloom tomatoes for the best flavor and texture in your BLT Eggs Benedict.
Perfect Poaching: Add a little vinegar to the simmering water to help keep the egg whites together during poaching. This prevents a messy plate!
Hollandaise Consistency: If your hollandaise sauce breaks or separates, whisk in a teaspoon of warm water to bring it back together.
Sugary Bacon: Don’t rush the candying process. Cook your bacon low and slow to achieve that perfect crispy, caramelized texture without burning.
Layering Flavors: Feel free to experiment! Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for a different twist that adds nutrients and flavor to your BLT Eggs Benedict.
Warm Serving: Serve immediately after assembling to enjoy the contrasting textures of crispy bacon, creamy hollandaise, and runny egg yolks.
How to Store and Freeze BLT Eggs Benedict
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the quality, keep components separate until ready to eat.
Freezer: For best taste and texture, it’s not recommended to freeze the complete assembled BLT Eggs Benedict. However, you can freeze the candied bacon for up to 2 months; reheat before serving.
Reheating: Gently reheat the hollandaise sauce in a double boiler and poach fresh eggs just before serving for the best results. Crisp up the bacon in a skillet for added crunch.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the hollandaise sauce and candied bacon ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge for seamless assembly when you’re ready to enjoy your BLT Eggs Benedict.
BLT Eggs Benedict Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right bacon for my BLT Eggs Benedict?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, opt for thick-cut bacon. It crisps up beautifully and holds up well against the other ingredients, resulting in a satisfying crunch in every bite.
How should I store leftovers of my BLT Eggs Benedict?
You can store leftover components separately for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Keep the hollandaise sauce in an airtight container, and the poached eggs and assembled muffins stored separately. This way, they retain their best quality when you reheat them!
Can I freeze parts of the BLT Eggs Benedict?
Yes! While it’s not ideal to freeze the fully assembled dish, you can freeze the candied bacon for up to 2 months. Just reheat it in a skillet until crispy before serving. As for the hollandaise, it’s best made fresh, but you can prepare it a day in advance and gently reheat it when you’re ready to use it.
What should I do if my hollandaise sauce separates?
If your hollandaise sauce breaks, don’t worry! Simply whisk in a teaspoon of warm water gradually to bring it back together. It may take a bit of elbow grease, but you’ll end up with that luscious consistency! If it’s too thick, simply add more warm water, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired texture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Very! For a vegetarian version of BLT Eggs Benedict, simply substitute the candied bacon with sautéed mushrooms or avocado slices. You can also use spinach in place of arugula if you prefer a milder taste, while still keeping the wonderful flavors of hollandaise sauce. Enjoy the variety — the more, the merrier!
Savory BLT Eggs Benedict with Spiced Hollandaise Sauce
Equipment
- - Skillet
- Whisk
- - Pot
- - Slotted spoon
- Toaster
- - Airtight container
Ingredients
For the Candied Bacon
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon Choose thick-cut for the best texture and flavor.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup Adds a sweet element to complement the savory bacon.
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar Enhances caramelization; dark brown sugar can be used for a richer taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper Offers a hint of heat; adjust to taste or skip for milder flavor.
For the Hollandaise Sauce
- 3 large egg yolks Creates a rich and creamy sauce; whisk gently to avoid overcooking.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Balances richness; white wine vinegar is a great substitute.
- 1 cup unsalted butter Essential for smooth hollandaise; use clarified butter for stability.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder Adds depth; customize according to your spice preference.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds depth; customize according to your spice preference.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances all flavors; sea salt works well too.
For Assembling the Benedict
- 4 large eggs Poached for the eggs Benedict; ensure they are fresh for the best results.
- 2 pieces English muffins Toasted adds a delightful crunch; can swap for gluten-free options.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for muffins) Richness enhancer; olive oil can be a healthier option.
- 2 cups arugula Provides a peppery note; substitute with spinach for a milder flavor.
- 1 large heirloom tomato Fresh, juicy addition; any ripe tomato variety will work well.
Instructions
Candy the Bacon
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook thick-cut bacon with maple syrup and light brown sugar until crispy and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside on paper towels to drain.
Prepare Hollandaise
- In a bowl, whisk egg yolks and fresh lemon juice together until thick. Gradually incorporate melted unsalted butter, whisking continuously until smooth. Stir in cayenne, chili powder, smoked paprika, and kosher salt to taste.
Poach Eggs
- Bring a pot of water to a gentle simmer and add a splash of white vinegar. Crack fresh eggs into the simmering water and poach for about 3-4 minutes, until the whites are set but yolks remain runny. Remove with a slotted spoon.
Toast Muffins
- While the eggs poach, split and toast English muffins until golden. Spread softened unsalted butter on each half.
Assemble
- On each muffin half, layer arugula and slices of heirloom tomato, top with a poached egg, drizzle generously with hollandaise sauce, and finish off with pieces of candied bacon.