There’s something about the smell of freshly baked goods wafting through the house that just awakens all the right morning vibes, don’t you agree? A few weekends ago, I found myself craving a cozy breakfast idea that wasn’t the standard cereal or toast. And that’s when the idea of Breakfast Strudels popped into my head! These delightful little parcels of goodness bring all the warmth and comfort I love in brunch dishes, not to mention they are perfect for impressing friends or family with something a tad more sophisticated.
The first time I made these strudels, it was for a leisurely Saturday brunch with my best friends, and let’s just say they didn’t last long! I loved how easy they are to whip up and how customizable the filling can be. The crispy phyllo combined with the creamy cheesy filling is a match made in breakfast heaven! Plus, if you want to add a twist, you can throw in veggies or different seasonings to make it your own. Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
What’s in Breakfast Strudels?
Phyllo Dough: The star of this show! This delicate pastry gives a light and flaky texture that becomes wonderfully crispy once baked. I always go for the frozen kind, just make sure to thaw it out before using.
Eggs: These provide the protein base for the filling, binding everything together in creamy deliciousness. I love using organic, free-range eggs for a richer flavor.
Ricotta Cheese: Oh, the creaminess! This cheese adds a lovely texture and a hint of sweetness that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Gooey and melty, mozzarella brings everything together and adds that wonderful stretchiness when you take a bite. Use your favorite brand here!
Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this good stuff adds a salty kick and deep flavor that makes the filling extra tasty.
Fresh Herbs (e.g., parsley or chives): Fresh herbs elevate the strudels; they add a vibrant color and a refreshing taste. I always appreciate a little greenery in my meals!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (optional): If you want a punch of flavor, these tangy bites are perfect. They’re optional, but trust me—they take the strudel to another level.
Butter: For brushing the phyllo, it makes each layer crisp up beautifully and adds a lovely buttery flavor.
Garlic Powder: Just a hint of garlic to enhance the taste. I believe there’s no such thing as too much garlic in my life!
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skip these!
Breadcrumbs: For that delicious topping, breadcrumbs add a fantastic crunch to each bite. You can use plain or seasoned, depending on your taste.
Is Breakfast Strudels Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about how this delightful breakfast option fits into a healthy diet.
Eggs: A powerhouse of protein, they are full of nutrients and keep you feeling full longer.
Ricotta Cheese: It’s lighter than many other cheeses, providing both protein and calcium without being overly heavy.
Fresh Herbs: Packed with vitamins, they not only enhance your meal but also provide health benefits like antioxidant properties.
The one consideration is that phyllo dough is lighter than classic pastry, but it still can have some saturated fats from the buttery layers. Moderation is key! Plus, you can adjust how much cheese or creaminess you add to suit your dietary preferences.
Ingredients
– 1 package phyllo dough (about 16 oz)
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh herbs (e.g., parsley or chives), chopped
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
*Yields: Approximately 8 strudels*
How to Make Breakfast Strudels?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped herbs, sun-dried tomatoes (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. On your workspace, carefully unroll the phyllo dough. Lay one sheet of phyllo on a flat surface and brush it lightly with melted butter. Layer two more sheets on top, buttering each layer.
4. Spoon a portion of the egg and cheese mixture along the longer edge of the phyllo, leaving about an inch border on the sides.
5. Fold the sides over the filling, then carefully roll the phyllo from one end to the other to form a strudel. Place the seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo dough and filling mixture.
7. Brush the tops of the strudels with remaining melted butter and sprinkle breadcrumbs over them for added texture and crunch.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the strudels are golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Cut them into pieces and serve warm.
Cheesy Tips and Variations!
– **Herb Swap:** Want to switch it up? Use any fresh herbs you have on hand, like basil or dill.
– **Vegetable Boost:** Feel free to add spinach or mushrooms to the filling for a veggie-packed version.
– **Syrup Lovers:** Serve these strudels with a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet twist on savory!
– **Make Ahead:** You can assemble the strudels ahead of time and freeze them. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to bake!
Baking up these Breakfast Strudels is the perfect way to get breakfast and some love into my day. I truly think you’ll enjoy making these as much as I do! So, grab your apron and gather your friends and family, and let’s get to strudeling! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out!
