She Strengthens

Elevate Your Brunch Game with Mini Quiches

When it comes to hosting a memorable brunch, it’s all about the details. And what’s more impressive than bite-sized quiches that pack a flavor punch? With this recipe, you’ll be the talk of the town.

The Perfect Pastry

To make these mini quiches, you’ll need two essential ingredients: frozen puff pastry sheets and high-quality bacon. Look for an all-butter frozen puff pastry, like Dufour, to ensure the flakiest crust. For the bacon, choose a thick-cut, smoked variety to add depth to your quiches.

Mini Muffin Pans: The Secret to Success

To achieve uniform quiches, you’ll need four 12-cup or two 24-cup mini muffin pans. This special equipment will help you create perfectly portioned quiches that are easy to serve and devour.

The Filling: A Delicious Combination

In a large frying pan, cook diced bacon until crispy, then set it aside. In the same pan, sauté sliced leeks until they’re tender and lightly caramelized. In a separate bowl, whisk together half-and-half, shredded cheddar, eggs, egg yolks, thyme, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Combine the cooked leeks and bacon with the egg mixture, and you’ll have a rich, creamy filling.

Assembling and Baking the Quiches

Preheat your oven to 400°F, with one rack in the top third and another in the bottom third. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface, stamp out circles, and press them into the mini muffin pans. Fill each pastry with a tablespoon of the custard mixture, making sure to leave a small border around the edges. Bake for 10 minutes, then rotate the pans to ensure even cooking. After 10 more minutes, the quiches should be puffed and golden brown. Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving warm or at room temperature.

Tips and Variations

• To add an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle grated cheese or chopped herbs on top of the quiches before baking.
• Experiment with different fillings, such as diced ham, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted vegetables.
• These mini quiches are perfect for a passed hors d’oeuvre or an elevated brunch buffet. Simply arrange them on a platter or tiered stand, and watch them disappear.

With these mini quiches, you’ll be the master of your brunch domain. So go ahead, get creative, and wow your guests with these bite-sized masterpieces!