Baked Eggs

Easy

Let's talk about something that's effortlessly chic, delightfully simple, and guaranteed to elevate your brunch game: Baked Eggs in Crème Fraîche.

If you're a fan of the inimitable Rachel Khoo, you'll know exactly what I'm talking about. I recently found her original show on Prime Video - Rachel Khoo’s Little Paris Kitchen, where I first saw this recipe. That certain je ne sais quoi she brings to the table, transforming everyday ingredients into something truly special. This recipe, inspired by her effortless style, captures that very essence.

Imagine this: creamy, rich crème fraîche, gently baked until it's just set, cradling perfectly cooked eggs. It's the kind of dish that looks like you've spent hours slaving away, when in reality, it's a breeze to prepare. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It’s the kind of dish that whispers elegance, not shouts it.\

I know at the time of this writing that eggs are at a premium.  This recipe elevates the egg and really makes it something special and not some random ingredient that you don’t even know is in the dish.

What is Créme Fraîche?

Now, let's talk about that crème fraîche. It's the star of the show, providing a luxurious, tangy backdrop for the delicate eggs. 

If you look in the specialty cheese or dairy section of your grocery store, you should be able to find it, but what if you don't have crème fraîche on hand or can't find it? 

No worries! You can substitute it with a few alternatives. For a slightly lighter option, you could use full-fat Greek yogurt, which will add a similar tang. Or, for an even richer experience, try mascarpone cheese. Just remember that the texture and flavor will vary slightly, but the end result will still be utterly delicious.

Finishing Your Baked Eggs

And then, there are the toppings! The possibilities are endless. Think of this dish as a blank canvas, ready for your culinary masterpiece. A sprinkle of fresh, chopped herbs like flat-leaf parsley, thyme, chives, or tarragon will add a burst of freshness and vibrant color. Or, for a touch of decadence, consider salmon eggs, their salty, briny pop contrasting beautifully with the creamy eggs. Smoked salmon, finely sliced, is another excellent choice, adding a smoky, savory note.

If those toppings sound too exotic, what about simply chopped fresh tomatoes, basil, or even a light pesto?  Delicious.

Picture this: warm, creamy baked eggs, topped with a flurry of fresh herbs, served alongside crusty bread for dipping. It's the perfect brunch treat, whether you're hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a leisurely weekend breakfast.

This dish is a testament to the idea that simple can be extraordinary. It's the kind of recipe that will become a staple in your repertoire, a go-to for those moments when you want something delicious and impressive, without the fuss.

Jen Vondenbrink is a cooking, food, and lifestyle blogger at Appetite for Life since 2020.  Jen Vondenbrink has over 35 years of professional cooking experience apprenticing with local pastry and artisan bread makers, working for culinary innovator J. Bildner & Sons in Boston, as well as Starbucks Coffee Company in Seattle, Washington. Jen Vondenbrink has published cookbooks such as Thanksgiving Recipes From Home, Fun Summer Recipes, and the Cozy Soup Cookbook.  Jen Vondenbrink also hosts the Appetite for Life Cooking Club, where members get insights to enhance their cooking.  Jen Vondenbrink offers cooking classes and cooking coaching, working one-on-one with people to strengthen their cooking knowledge and skills.