These Mini Quiche Loraines are adorable little bites packed with creamy egg, crispy bacon, and cheese. Perfect for any brunch or snack time!
Making these tiny treats is so much fun! I love how they disappear in seconds at parties. Plus, you can fill them with whatever you fancy—how cool is that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: A light, flaky base perfect for these quiches. If you don’t have it, shortcrust pastry works too. It’s denser but still delicious. You can also use pre-made tart shells for a quicker option!
Eggs: They provide the creamy filling. If you want to lighten things up, try using egg whites or a mix of whole eggs and egg whites. This will decrease the richness while still holding together nicely.
Heavy Cream: This gives the quiche a rich texture. If you’re looking for lighter options, half-and-half or milk can be substituted. For a dairy-free version, use almond milk or coconut cream, but keep in mind the flavor may change slightly.
Bacon: The classic filler for Quiche Lorraine. If you want a vegetarian option, replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
Gruyère Cheese: My favorite for its nutty flavor! You can substitute with Swiss cheese or even cheddar if that’s what you have. Just keep in mind that it will alter the taste a bit.
How Do You Get the Quiche Filling Just Right?
Getting the filling perfect is key to a great mini quiche. The mixture should be creamy yet firm enough after baking. Here’s how:
- Whisk the eggs and cream thoroughly to incorporate air, which will create a fluffy filling.
- Don’t skip on seasoning! The salt and spices elevate the taste.
- Be careful while filling the pastry shells; too much mixture can overflow, so aim for about 3/4 full.
- Monitor baking time closely; ovens vary, and you want the tops to turn a lovely golden brown without burning.
Let them cool for a few minutes before removing from the tin—this way, they’ll hold their shape better!
Mini Quiche Lorraine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pastry:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry or shortcrust pastry
For the Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 6 oz bacon, chopped
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated (or Swiss cheese)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mini Quiche Lorraine takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 25 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’ll be enjoying these tasty bites in just around 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Tin:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grab a mini muffin tin or mini tart pans and lightly grease them to prevent sticking. This way, your quiches will pop right out after baking!
2. Shape the Pastry:
Now it’s time to roll out your pastry. On a lightly floured surface, spread the pastry and cut out rounds a little larger than your muffin tin cups. These will be your crusts. Gently press each round into the cups to form a small shell.
3. Cook the Bacon:
In a pan over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, place it on some paper towels to soak up the excess grease.
4. Mix the Filling:
While the bacon cools, grab a mixing bowl. Whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and optional nutmeg until everything is smooth and well combined. This mixture will make your quiche rich and creamy!
5. Assemble the Quiches:
Evenly distribute the crispy bacon bits into each pastry shell. Then, sprinkle the grated cheese over the bacon. Lastly, pour the egg and cream mixture into each shell, filling them nearly to the top but being careful not to overflow.
6. Bake Them to Perfection:
Place your filled muffin tin in the oven and bake for around 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want them to be set in the middle with the tops lightly golden.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the mini quiches from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to take them out of the tin. Gently remove them, garnish with fresh parsley or chives, and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
These Mini Quiche Lorraines are perfect for brunch, parties, or just a delicious snack! Enjoy every tiny, savory bite!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pastry?
Absolutely! Store-bought puff pastry or shortcrust pastry saves time and is super convenient. Just make sure to let it thaw if it’s frozen before rolling it out!
How Can I Customize the Filling?
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also swap out the bacon for cooked sausage or chicken for different flavor profiles!
Can I Make These Mini Quiches Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the quiche filling and assemble them a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate them. Bake as instructed when you’re ready to serve!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover mini quiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through for the best taste!