A quiet morning, sunlight streaming through your kitchen window, and the irresistible scent of freshly baked goods surrounding you. You’ve decided to indulge in a Panera Bread Egg Soufflé, perhaps the most delightful breakfast option out there. But what should you enjoy alongside it?
Consider pairing your soufflé with a vibrant side salad. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon will balance the richness of the soufflé perfectly. You might also enjoy a fresh fruit medley with sweet berries and juicy melons. If you crave something heartier, a warm bowl of oatmeal topped with banana slices and a drizzle of honey fits the bill. Lastly, a smooth cup of freshly brewed coffee or a refreshing iced tea can elevate the entire meal.
Let’s dive into a world of fluffy deliciousness, shall we? Imagine savoring a warm, cheesy Panera Bread Egg Soufflé. I remember my first bite; it was like a hug for my taste buds. Soft eggs, melty cheese, and an airiness that seemed almost magical.
In this article, I’ll show you how to create this delightful dish at home. I’ll share what makes this recipe truly shine and guide you through the steps so that you can impress your family and friends with this café-style treat.
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What is Panera Bread Egg Soufflé?
You might be wondering, “What exactly is a Panera Bread Egg Soufflé?” A soufflé, in general, is a light, fluffy dish made with eggs, often combined with cheese, vegetables, or meats.
At Panera Bread, they take this classic dish and elevate it with high-quality ingredients and a perfect balance of flavors. Their egg soufflé is a popular breakfast item that combines beaten eggs with various fillings folded into a flaky pastry crust.
What Does It Taste Like?
If I could describe the taste, I’d say it’s like a breakfast dream wrapped in a pastry. The richness of the eggs contrasts beautifully with the light, flaky pastry. The cheeses melt perfectly, adding depth. Each bite is a delightful experience that brings together comforting flavors. The blend of spices and herbs used in the filling adds a certain zest that makes it truly special.
Why This Recipe Works
1. Unparalleled Flavor: The combination of eggs, cheese, and fresh ingredients creates a flavor explosion that awakens the senses. Adding smoked paprika and fresh herbs gives the dish a unique twist.
2. Light Yet Satisfying: The soufflé manages to be filling without making you feel heavy afterward. The puff pastry creates a light shell, allowing the eggs to feel spacious and airy.
3. Versatility: You can customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Want to swap a type of cheese? Go for it! This makes it a fantastic recipe to keep in your kitchen arsenal.
4. Easy to Prepare: Even for busy people, this recipe is straightforward. The steps are simple and allow for preparation ahead of time, making busy mornings manageable.
Ingredients for Panera Bread Egg Soufflé
To create this scrumptious dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup rich heavy cream
- 4 thin slices of prosciutto
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, store-bought and thawed per package instructions
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
- 3 large eggs or 4 medium-sized eggs
- 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, well-drained
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because you want your soufflés to bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface. You’ll want to create a square that’s about 1/8 inch thick. Using a pastry cutter, divide it into four equal pieces. Gently press these into muffin tins or a soufflé dish.
Step 3: Mix the Eggs and Cream
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Make sure all the ingredients blend together smoothly.
Step 4: Add the Cheese and Fillings
Fold in your mozzarella cheese, prosciutto, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and rosemary into the egg mixture. The goal here is to distribute the flavors evenly.
Step 5: Fill the Pastry Shells
Pour the egg mixture into each pastry-lined muffin tin. Fill them generously but be cautious not to overfill. The soufflés will rise while baking.
Step 6: Top with Parmesan
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of each soufflé for that additional layer of flavor and a beautiful golden crust.
Step 7: Bake
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the tops are puffed and golden. The soufflés should wiggle slightly when you give them a gentle shake.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow them to cool for a few minutes. They’ll hold their shape beautifully. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful experience.
Notes
- Prepping ahead: You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pour it into the pastry when you’re ready to bake.
- Puff pastry handling: Keep your pastry cold until just before baking for best results. The fluff will come from that cold air in the dough.
- Cheese options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar or feta can also work beautifully.
- Fresh herbs: Using fresh herbs makes a big difference. Dried herbs can be a substitute, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
- Storing leftovers: If you have any leftovers, refrigerate them in an airtight container. These soufflés reheat well in the oven.
Nutrition Information
panera bread egg souffle recipe nutrition facts
How to Store the Leftovers?
To keep your leftovers fresh, allow the soufflés to cool completely. Place them in an airtight container, and store them in the refrigerator. They should last for about 2-3 days. When reheating, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Sides for Panera Bread Egg Soufflé
1. Fresh Green Salad: A light salad of leafy greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soufflé.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary and garlic add a hearty crunch. They’re a fantastic comfort side that pairs wonderfully.
3. Fruit Salad: A bowl of mixed fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, and oranges, provides a refreshing contrast. The sweetness from the fruits will balance out any savory notes.
4. Yogurt Parfait: A layered parfait with Greek yogurt, granola, and berries becomes not just a delightful addition but also adds protein and fiber to the meal.
Alternative Choices for Ingredients
1. Vegetarian Option: Swap the prosciutto for sautéed mushrooms or spinach. This works well and adds a richness that’s hard to beat.
2. Dairy-Free Variation: Use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives if dairy is off the table for you. Almond or coconut-based products work well.
3. Herb Substitution: If you don’t have fresh basil, consider using dried oregano or tarragon. Both herbs offer a different flavor profile that can be delicious.
4. Pasta Swap: In a pinch, you can use a crescent dough instead of puff pastry. It’s not traditional, but it bakes up light and flaky.
Equipment
- oven
- Floured surface
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup rich heavy cream
- 4 thin slices of prosciutto
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 sheet of puff pastry store-bought and thawed per package instructions
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
- 3 large eggs or 4 medium-sized eggs
- 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes well-drained
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because you want your soufflés to bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface. You’ll want to create a square that’s about 1/8 inch thick. Using a pastry cutter, divide it into four equal pieces. Gently press these into muffin tins or a soufflé dish.
Step 3: Mix the Eggs and Cream
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Make sure all the ingredients blend together smoothly.
Step 4: Add the Cheese and Fillings
- Fold in your mozzarella cheese, prosciutto, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and rosemary into the egg mixture. The goal here is to distribute the flavors evenly.
Step 5: Fill the Pastry Shells
- Pour the egg mixture into each pastry-lined muffin tin. Fill them generously but be cautious not to overfill. The soufflés will rise while baking.
Step 6: Top with Parmesan
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of each soufflé for that additional layer of flavor and a beautiful golden crust.
Step 7: Bake
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the tops are puffed and golden. The soufflés should wiggle slightly when you give them a gentle shake.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Once baked, allow them to cool for a few minutes. They’ll hold their shape beautifully. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful experience.
Notes
- Prepping ahead: You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pour it into the pastry when you’re ready to bake.
- Puff pastry handling: Keep your pastry cold until just before baking for best results. The fluff will come from that cold air in the dough.
- Cheese options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar or feta can also work beautifully.
- Fresh herbs: Using fresh herbs makes a big difference. Dried herbs can be a substitute, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
- Storing leftovers: If you have any leftovers, refrigerate them in an airtight container. These soufflés reheat well in the oven.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze the egg soufflé?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled but unbaked soufflés. Wrap them in plastic before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Just bake them from frozen when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. How can I prevent my soufflés from collapsing?
To ensure your soufflés stay puffy, avoid overmixing the egg mixture. Also, ensure your oven is fully preheated before placing them inside. Serve them immediately for the best rise.
3. What can I serve with the soufflé if I’m looking for something sweet?
Consider pairing your soufflé with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup when served warm. The sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory flavors.
4. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just fill the pastry and bake when ready. They also reheat well for a quick breakfast.
Conclusion
Indulging in a Panera Bread Egg Soufflé doesn’t have to be a treat reserved for café visits. Now, with this recipe, you can recreate that magical experience in your own kitchen. It combines flavors, textures, and comfort—the perfect trifecta for breakfast or brunch.
The best part? Experimenting with this dish allows you to personalize it to your liking. Whether you’re serving it to guests or simply enjoying it solo, it’s a breakfast that triggers smiles.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and unleash your inner chef. You’re on your way to serving up warmth, flavor, and a dash of creativity. Enjoy the artistry and deliciousness of your homemade egg soufflé!