Waking up to the aroma of freshly baked mini ham and cheese quiche cups is a morning delight that never fails to impress. These delightful bites boast a golden, flaky crust filled with savory ham, eggs, and gooey cheddar cheese, making them a perfect breakfast treat. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday indulgence or planning a leisurely weekend brunch, these mini quiches are a versatile and satisfying option.
The simplicity of using crescent rolls or puff pastry as the base for these mini quiche cups ensures a fuss-free preparation that doesn’t compromise on taste. The convenience of being able to make these ahead of time and freeze them for later means you can enjoy a homemade breakfast on the go whenever the craving strikes. With just a few basic ingredients, these mini ham and cheese quiche cups are a delicious way to start your day with a burst of flavor and comfort.
Ingredients
Creating these delectable mini ham and cheese quiche cups requires a simple list of ingredients. Below are the essential components divided into the pie crust, egg mixture, and variations for cheese and ham selections.
Pie Crust
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, frozen
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1-2 tablespoons ice water (if needed)
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon salt (coarse kosher salt recommended)
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of black pepper (coarsely ground)
- 1 cup finely chopped ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions or chives for garnish
Feel free to customize your quiche cups by opting for bacon, sausage, different cheeses, or even a meatless version. Experiment with various fillings to suit your preferences and pantry staples.
Equipment Needed
When preparing these delightful mini ham and cheese quiche cups, having the right equipment on hand is essential. Here are the tools you’ll need to ensure a smooth cooking experience:
- Muffin Tin: To shape the quiche cups and bake them uniformly.
- Mixing Bowls: For combining and mixing the ingredients together.
- Whisk or Fork: To blend the egg mixture thoroughly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements of ingredients.
- Cutting Board and Knife: To chop the ham and cheese into small pieces.
- Cooking Spray or Muffin Liners: To prevent sticking and ease in removing the quiche cups.
- Oven: To bake the quiche cups to golden perfection.
- Cooling Rack: For letting the quiche cups cool before serving.
- Optional: Pastry Brush: For brushing the crust with egg wash for a shiny finish.
Having these tools at your disposal will make your mini ham and cheese quiche cup preparation a breeze. Now that you’re equipped with the necessities, let’s move on to the next steps in creating these delectable treats.
Preparation Steps
Preparing the Pie Crust
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spray a 12-cup muffin/cupcake tin with nonstick spray.
- Roll out the store-bought pie crusts and cut them into circles larger than the muffin tin cups (3 ½ inches wide).
- Fit the crust rounds into the cups, pressing down the bottoms and up the sides.
- Spread 1 tablespoon of cheddar cheese at the bottom of each crust.
- Add 1 tablespoon of diced ham and ½ tablespoon of chopped green onion on top of the cheese.
Mixing Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 2 cups of whole milk, and ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly into each muffin cup over the cheese, ham, and green onions.
- Bake the mini quiches in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly and the top is golden brown.
- Allow the quiches to sit for 5 minutes to set before removing them from the tin.
- Pro tip: Remember to spray the muffin tin with cooking spray to prevent the quiches from sticking.
Cooking Instructions
Filling the Cups
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
- Roll out the pie scraps to ⅛-inch thickness.
- In a medium bowl, combine the eggs, milk, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- Place a crescent roll triangle into each muffin cup, overlapping the ends to form a cup shape.
- Add a spoonful of chopped ham into each crescent roll cup.
- Sprinkle a quarter cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the ham.
- Pour the egg mixture into each cup, dividing it evenly among them.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of each mini quiche.
- Bake the mini quiches in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the crusts are golden brown.
- Remove the quiches from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes.
- Loosen the sides of the quiches with a knife or spatula and carefully transfer them to serving plates.
- Serve the mini ham and cheese quiche cups hot and enjoy your delicious breakfast treat!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate the presentation of these delectable mini ham and cheese quiche cups, consider serving them with a side of fresh fruit salad or a lightly dressed mixed greens salad. The colorful and refreshing contrast of the salads complements the savory flavors of the quiches perfectly.
For a brunch spread or a small gathering, arrange the mini quiche cups on a decorative platter garnished with a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or chives. This adds a touch of elegance to the table setting and enhances the visual appeal of the dish.
To create a more substantial meal, serve the mini quiches alongside some crispy oven-baked hash browns or roasted breakfast potatoes. The crispy texture of the potatoes adds a delightful contrast to the creamy texture of the quiches, making for a satisfying breakfast or brunch option.
For a cozy breakfast at home, pair these mini ham and cheese quiche cups with a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or a refreshing glass of orange juice. The combination of flavors and textures will surely make your mornings brighter and more flavorful.
Experiment with different serving styles to suit your preferences and occasion, whether it’s a casual weekend breakfast or a special brunch gathering with friends and family. These mini quiche cups are versatile and adaptable, making them a delightful addition to any breakfast spread.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigeration
After preparing your Mighty Good Mini Quiche cups, allow them to cool completely before refrigerating. Store the quiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds for a quick and delicious breakfast option.
Freezing and Reheating
To freeze your mini ham and cheese quiche cups for future enjoyment, tightly wrap each cooled cup in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped quiches in an airtight food storage container or Ziploc bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re craving a savory breakfast, microwave the frozen quiches on high for 60-90 seconds to enjoy a hassle-free and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
I’ve shared the appeal and versatility of mini ham and cheese quiche cups, along with easy customization options. Remember to refrigerate for up to 3 days and reheat in the microwave for a quick meal. Freezing instructions allow for storing these tasty treats for up to 3 months, ensuring you always have a delicious option on hand. Enjoy the convenience and delicious flavors of these quiche cups any time of day!