This recipe is perfect for a special occasion breakfast, especially during the holidays. Combining flaky croissants, crispy bacon, and a savory cheddar chive gravy, these croissant boats are a delicious and satisfying way to start your day.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
Croissant Boat Stuffing
- 5 slices Wellshire Farms Maple Bourbon Bacon
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
- 1/3 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Cheddar Chive Gravy
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk of choice
- 8 oz chicken broth
- 1/4 cup yellow onion
- 1/8 cup chopped fresh chives
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Directions
- Prepare the Bacon
- Cook bacon in a frying pan for 6 minutes on each side until 3/4 cooked. Set aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
- Make the Cheddar Chive Gravy
- Reserve 1 tbsp of bacon grease in the pan. Cook onions in the grease over medium-low heat for 1 minute. Add minced garlic and cook for 2 minutes.
- Stir in 2 tbsp flour and cook for another 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth, then add shredded cheddar cheese and chicken broth.
- Stir in chopped chives and keep on low heat while preparing the stuffing.
- Prepare the Croissants
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Hollow out the tops of 4 croissants to create “boats.” Place them on a baking sheet, spray with olive oil, and bake for 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a frying pan, heat olive oil over medium heat for 2 minutes. Scramble eggs, cooking for 3-4 minutes until partially cooked. Add salt, pepper, paprika, cheddar cheese, and spinach. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Mix the bacon pieces into the egg mixture.
- Assemble and Bake
- Divide the egg mixture evenly into the croissant boats. Optionally, top with more cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
- Serve
- Drizzle the cheddar chive gravy over the croissant boats and serve with breakfast potatoes or fruit salad.
Nutrients
- Calories: 512kcal
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Cholesterol: 323mg
- Sodium: 1035mg
- Potassium: 297mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 7g
- Vitamin A: 1986IU
- Vitamin C: 8mg
- Calcium: 418mg
- Iron: 3mg
Enjoy your upgraded, delicious breakfast! 🥐
The Appeal of Croissant Boats
Croissant boats are not just delicious—they’re an experience. The concept of hollowing out buttery croissants to create edible vessels for rich, savory fillings is a creative twist on traditional breakfast fare. Their eye-catching presentation makes them perfect for brunches, family gatherings, or intimate breakfasts-in-bed.
The layers of texture and flavor in this recipe are key to its appeal. The flaky, golden croissants provide a light, crispy base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy egg filling and velvety gravy. The salty, smoky bacon adds depth, while the cheddar cheese offers a sharp richness that ties the dish together. Meanwhile, fresh spinach and chives lend brightness and a pop of color, keeping the flavors balanced.
A Holiday Favorite
Holiday mornings are made for indulgence, and this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Whether it’s Christmas, Easter, or a cozy weekend celebration, these croissant boats bring warmth and joy to the table. The ingredients—maple bourbon bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and aromatic chives—carry a comforting, nostalgic quality that feels right at home during festive gatherings.
In addition to their flavor, croissant boats are versatile enough to accommodate a variety of dietary preferences or ingredient swaps. For example, you could easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and using plant-based milk for the gravy. Alternatively, you could experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyère or smoked gouda, for a unique twist.
The Role of the Cheddar Chive Gravy
No breakfast dish is complete without a sauce or topping that ties everything together, and in this recipe, the cheddar chive gravy does just that. Silky, creamy, and full of cheesy goodness, this gravy is what transforms the dish from a simple stuffed croissant to a luxurious breakfast entrée.
The gravy also adds a layer of moisture, ensuring every bite of the croissant is decadently rich. The chives bring a hint of oniony freshness, while the cheddar provides a satisfying umami punch. Making the gravy from scratch is a step worth savoring—it’s easy to prepare but imparts a flavor that feels far more complex.
Nutrition and Balance
While these croissant boats are undeniably indulgent, they also pack a surprising amount of nutritional benefits. Eggs and cheddar cheese are rich in protein, making this dish satisfying and energizing. Spinach contributes essential vitamins and minerals, including iron and vitamin A, while the bacon offers a source of protein and healthy fats.
The dish’s nutritional profile, with 24 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber per serving, makes it a hearty option that can keep you fueled for hours. While it is higher in calories (around 512 per serving), this is a dish meant to be savored on special occasions, where indulgence takes precedence over everyday calorie counting.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
To ensure your croissant boats turn out perfectly, here are some tips and tricks:
- Use fresh croissants: Opt for bakery-quality croissants for the best texture and flavor. Day-old croissants can work if you toast them lightly before hollowing them out.
- Partially cook the eggs: When preparing the egg mixture, cook the eggs until they are just set. They will finish cooking in the oven, ensuring they stay moist and fluffy.
- Don’t skimp on the gravy: The cheddar chive gravy is a highlight of the dish, so make a generous amount and don’t hesitate to drizzle it liberally over the croissant boats before serving.
- Customize the filling: This recipe is highly adaptable—feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
Pairing Suggestions
Croissant boats are versatile enough to be served alongside a variety of accompaniments. Pair them with crispy breakfast potatoes or a light fruit salad to round out the meal. For a more indulgent spread, consider serving them with mimosas, coffee, or even a festive spiced hot chocolate.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
What sets this recipe apart is its balance of elegance and comfort. While the presentation is impressive enough for a formal brunch, the flavors remain warm and familiar, appealing to guests of all ages. The preparation process, though detailed, is manageable even for home cooks with modest experience, making it accessible for anyone looking to create a memorable breakfast.
Moreover, these croissant boats showcase the magic of simple ingredients combined thoughtfully. From the smokiness of the bacon to the nuttiness of the sharp cheddar, each element is carefully chosen to complement the others. The result is a dish that feels greater than the sum of its parts—a hallmark of great cooking.
Conclusion
Croissant boats with bacon and cheddar chive gravy are the ultimate indulgent breakfast for special occasions. With their buttery croissant base, savory egg filling, and luxurious gravy, they strike a perfect balance between elegance and comfort. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or treating yourself to a leisurely morning meal, this recipe promises to deliver flavor, satisfaction, and a touch of festive flair.
As you take your first bite of this decadent creation, you’ll be reminded that breakfast is not just the most important meal of the day—it can also be the most delicious. So, gather your loved ones, set the table, and enjoy the cozy luxury of these croissant boats. After all, every day deserves a little indulgence, especially when it starts with a dish this delightful.