Save Cinnamon Maple Breakfast Quiche brings together sweet apples, smoky bacon, and warm spices for a morning dish filled with comfort and a little luxury. The custard is silky smooth, nestled in a crisp buttery crust, finished with pure maple syrup that makes breakfast feel special. Every bite balances savory cheese and smoky meat with gentle hints of cinnamon: my favorite for slow weekends when the whole house smells like autumn.
I first made this quiche for an impromptu brunch. Everyone wanted seconds and I loved how simple it was to pull together, no fuss but all the comfort. It has become a cozy Sunday tradition in my kitchen.
Ingredients
- Pie crust: Use a good-quality buttery store-bought crust for ease or make your own for maximum flavor. Make sure the crust is cold and not over-handled for the best flake.
- Eggs: Fresh large eggs hold the custard together and bake up creamy. Choose farm eggs for richer flavor if possible.
- Whole milk: Adds moisture and creaminess without making the custard too dense.
- Heavy cream: Adds silkiness and richness. Look for real cream with minimal additives.
- Pure maple syrup: Choose the darkest grade for deepest flavor. Adds sweetness and that distinct maple aroma.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and depth. Fresh spice means better aroma in the finished dish.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors throughout.
- Ground nutmeg: Offers a hint of spice. Use freshly grated if possible for extra aroma.
- Thick-cut bacon: Bacon provides smoky crunch. Cook until well crisped and drain excess fat for best texture. Or use a high-quality sausage.
- Apple: Pick a firm, tart apple for contrast (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work well). Dice small for even cooking.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds richness and a savory note. Shred fresh for best melt and flavor.
- Pure maple syrup (for drizzling): Warms up the flavors at the end and gives a beautiful glossy finish.
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Fit your pie crust into a nine-inch pie dish and crimp the edges firmly so it does not shrink during baking. If using homemade, chill it in the dish for ten minutes before adding the filling to keep it flaky.
- Make the Custard:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg until completely smooth and slightly frothy. This step helps avoid any curdling and ensures the custard bakes uniformly.
- Layer the Add-Ins:
- Evenly distribute the cooked crumbled bacon or sausage, diced apples, and shredded cheddar cheese across the bottom of the unbaked crust. Scatter the apple bits so each slice gets a burst of fruit.
- Fill and Bake:
- Gently pour the prepared custard over the add-ins in the crust, tilting the dish to make sure everything is covered and even. Tap the pan once on the counter to release any air bubbles.
- Bake:
- Place the quiche on the middle rack of your preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for thirty-five to forty minutes, watching for a slight golden brown top and carefully checking that the center is set but just barely jiggles. Do not overbake (the secret to a creamy texture).
- Rest and Finish:
- Allow the quiche to cool for ten minutes on a wire rack. Drizzle with maple syrup before slicing. This final touch adds sweetness and makes every slice shine.
Save Sharp cheddar is my secret for a deeper savory note. The first time I baked this quiche, my little one helped sprinkle the apples and cheese which made breakfast even more special (the kitchen smelled like cinnamon rolls all morning).
Storage Tips
Let leftover slices cool completely before storing. Refrigerate in a covered container for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently in a low oven or use a microwave at half power for best texture. If you plan to freeze individual sections, wrap tightly in foil and then in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a vegetarian version, plant-based sausage works well and pairs beautifully with the apple and maple flavors. Feel free to swap the apples for pears or use gouda instead of cheddar for a milder option. Gluten-free pie crusts can be found in most groceries (just be sure to prebake slightly if they are on the soft side).
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, with a drizzle of extra maple syrup. Fresh fruit on the side is great for balancing richness. A strong cup of black coffee or spicy chai really brings out the cinnamon notes in the custard. For a fancier brunch, pair with a green salad and roasted potatoes.
Cultural and Historical Context
Quiche comes from French tradition but American breakfast versions often play with sweet and savory flavors. Adding maple syrup and apples celebrates seasonal ingredients from Northeastern US, making this recipe feel both classic and uniquely homey.
Seasonal Adaptations
Use pears instead of apples when they are in season for a softer sweetness. Swap out cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice in fall. Try using roasted butternut squash as an autumnal add-in for extra comfort.
Success Stories
This brunch dish is always a winner for holiday mornings and busy weekends alike. Friends gush about the balance of flavors, with cinnamon and maple making it feel like dessert for breakfast. It is one of my go-to recipes for hosting because it looks stunning and feels special without any stress.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Slice and cool completely before freezing individual portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a gentle oven for best texture. The crust stays crisp if you avoid microwaving.
Save With its creamy custard and sweet spice, this breakfast quiche transforms any morning into a special occasion. Make it ahead, and let every slice bring a little comfort to your table.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute bacon for a vegetarian option?
Yes, you can omit bacon or use a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian-friendly quiche without sacrificing flavor.
- → What apples work best for this dish?
Firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith add sweetness and maintain texture during baking.
- → Can the quiche be made ahead?
Absolutely; prepare and bake, then refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving for fresh taste and texture.
- → How do I make it gluten-free?
Simply use a gluten-free pie crust found in stores or make your own using gluten-free flour blends.
- → What sides pair well?
Strong black coffee, chai, fresh fruit, or light greens complement the savory-sweet flavors beautifully.
- → How long do leftovers keep?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, leftovers remain fresh and tasty up to 3 days.