Breakfast Pies Recipe

Puff pastry: A flaky and buttery dough that forms the base of the pies.

Eggs: Provide the rich and creamy filling for the pies.

Shredded cheese: Adds a melty and savory element to the filling.

Milk: Helps to create a smooth and creamy egg mixture.

Diced ham: Adds a salty and meaty flavor to the pies.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the filling.

Pepper: Adds a touch of spice and depth to the filling.

When working with puff pastry, ensure it remains cold while you handle it. This helps maintain its structure and results in a flakier texture. If the pastry becomes too warm, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes before continuing. Additionally, when whisking the eggs and milk together, make sure to incorporate as much air as possible to achieve a light and fluffy egg mixture.

• puff pastry - Substitute with phyllo dough: Phyllo dough can provide a similar flaky texture, though it is thinner and may require layering.

• puff pastry - Substitute with pie crust: Pie crust offers a different texture but can still serve as a base for the breakfast pie.

• eggs - Substitute with egg substitute: Egg substitutes can be used for those who are vegan or have egg allergies.

• eggs - Substitute with tofu: Crumbled tofu can mimic the texture of scrambled eggs and is a good protein source for vegans.

• shredded cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: Vegan cheese can be used for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.

• shredded cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor and is a good source of B vitamins for vegans.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that can be used for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.

• milk - Substitute with soy milk: Soy milk is another dairy-free alternative that provides a similar consistency to cow's milk.

• diced ham - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner alternative to ham and provides a similar savory flavor.

• diced ham - Substitute with vegetarian sausage: Vegetarian sausage can be used for those who do not eat meat and still want a savory protein.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though it will also add a bit of liquid.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a bit of heat and spice to the dish, providing a different flavor profile.

• Allow the breakfast pies to cool completely at room temperature before storing or freezing. This prevents condensation, which can make the puff pastry soggy.

• For storing in the refrigerator:

  1. Place the cooled breakfast pies in an airtight container.
  2. Layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
  3. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• For freezing:

  1. Individually wrap each breakfast pie in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to protect them from freezer burn.
  2. Place the wrapped pies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
  3. Once frozen, transfer the pies to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
  4. Label the container with the date and contents.
  5. Freeze for up to 2 months.

• Reheating from the refrigerator:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the breakfast pies on a baking sheet.
  3. Heat for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

• Reheating from frozen:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Remove the plastic wrap or aluminum foil from the breakfast pies.
  3. Place the pies on a baking sheet.
  4. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
  5. Heat for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
  6. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of heating to crisp up the puff pastry.

• For a quicker reheating option, use the microwave:

  1. Place the breakfast pie on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes if refrigerated, or 3-4 minutes if frozen.
  3. Check for even heating and add additional time if necessary, in 30-second increments.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover breakfast pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the puff pastry from over-browning. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

• For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place the breakfast pies on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep the pastry from drying out. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 320°F (160°C). Place the breakfast pies in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for 5-7 minutes or until the eggs and ham are warmed through and the pastry is crispy.

• For stovetop reheating, use a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Place the breakfast pies in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even warming.

• If you prefer a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the breakfast pies on the toaster oven tray and cover them with aluminum foil. Heat for 10-12 minutes or until thoroughly warmed.

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) to bake the breakfast pies.

• Rolling pin: Roll out the puff pastry to the desired thickness.

• Knife: Cut the puff pastry into squares to fit into the muffin tin.

• Muffin tin: Place the pastry squares into this to form cups for the filling.

• Mixing bowl: Whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in this.

• Whisk: Use this to mix the egg mixture thoroughly.

• Measuring cups: Measure out the milk, ham, and cheese accurately.

• Cutting board: Dice the ham on this surface.

• Cooling rack: Let the breakfast pies cool slightly on this before serving.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Dice the ham and shred the cheese the night before to save time in the morning.

Use pre-made puff pastry: Thaw the puff pastry in the fridge overnight so it's ready to use.

Mix egg filling ahead: Whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper and store in the fridge until ready to assemble.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven while you prepare the other ingredients to save time.

Line muffin tin: Use parchment paper or non-stick spray to line the muffin tin for easy cleanup.