If you’re a fan of Starbucks’ egg bites, you’re going to love this easy-to-make, budget-friendly version that you can prepare right at home. These egg bites are not only delicious but also packed with protein and flavor, perfect for breakfast on the go or a light snack. Plus, with the addition of bacon and gooey Gruyère cheese, these bites are sure to be a hit with the whole family. Here’s how you can make your own version of these savory egg bites. In this recipe you will use the water bath method which is a pan of boiling water that you set your muffin pan into to bake. I used my roasting pan for the water. More instructions on how to do that below.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (or as needed)
– 7 large eggs
– 3/4 cup full-fat cottage cheese
– 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 3 strips of bacon, cooked and chopped
Directions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Coat a 12-cup silicone or nonstick muffin pan with extra-virgin olive oil to prevent the egg bites from sticking.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a blender, combine the 7 eggs, cottage cheese, 3/4 cup of the shredded Gruyère, the Monterey Jack cheese, hot sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Blend the mixture on medium speed for about 30 seconds, or until the ingredients are well-combined and smooth.
3. Set Up a Water Bath:
While your eggs are blending, bring a large pot of water to a boil. This water bath will help the egg bites cook evenly and keep them light and fluffy. This is the first recipe where I have ever used a water bath and I will say it really made a difference in the fluffiness of the bites.
CAROTE 21 Pcs Pots and Pans4. Assemble the Bites:
Place your greased muffin pan into a large, high-rimmed baking pan (a jelly-roll pan works great). Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of Gruyère cheese and the chopped bacon evenly into each of the muffin cups.
5. Pour the Egg Mixture:
Carefully divide the egg mixture among the muffin cups, filling each cup about 3/4 of the way full.
6. Add the Water:
Pour the boiling water into the roasting/baking pan (not into the muffin cups!). The water should come about halfway up the sides of the muffin pan, do not add water above the half . This will ensure the eggs cook gently and don’t dry out.
7. Bake:
Carefully transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake the egg bites for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the eggs are just set. They should be firm to the touch but still tender.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the egg bites cool for about 5 minutes before removing them from the muffin pan. Serve them warm or store them in the fridge for a quick, protein-packed snack throughout the week.
Tips:
– Customizable Flavors: You can easily swap out the bacon for veggies like spinach or roasted red peppers if you prefer a vegetarian option. You could also switch up the cheeses or add herbs for extra flavor.
– Freezer-Friendly: These egg bites freeze beautifully! Make a big batch, freeze them in an airtight container, and then microwave them for a minute or two when you’re ready to eat.
Final Thoughts
These homemade egg bites are just as tasty as the Starbucks version and much more cost-effective! Plus, you can control the ingredients to make them as healthy (or indulgent) as you want. Give them a try for your next breakfast meal prep!
* I adapted this recipe from Sara Haas, RDN, LDN recipe
