Breakfast Bundt Cake Video

This make-ahead breakfast Bundt cake pulls together everything you love about a cozy morning meal in one easy sliceable dish. It is my go-to brunch centerpiece when family visits because everyone gets a hearty combo of eggs bread ham and cheese with almost no fuss.

The first time I made this my husband could not stop sneaking hunks of the browned crust straight from the pan I now make two when we have overnight guests.

Ingredients

• French bread cubes: provide a fluffy custardy base Look for a sturdy loaf that is a day old so it holds its shape
• Frozen potatoes o brien: add a savory mix of potatoes and peppers Grab a brand with good color and texture
• Cheddar cheese: brings tang and melts pockets of richness in every bite Use a block and dice it or grab sharp pre-shredded
• Diced ham: adds hearty protein to fill everyone up Smoked ham gives extra flavor
• Large eggs: make the cake set up with a creamy texture Use farm fresh if possible
• Milk plus heavy cream: delivers the soft custard feel and richness Whole milk works best
• Garlic powder and onion powder: add savory depth so the cake never tastes flat Stock up on fresh spices for best punch
• Salt and black pepper: season the whole bake evenly Use kosher salt and freshly ground pepper for clean flavor
• Optional white gravy: poured over each slice for classic homestyle comfort Any country gravy mix works well

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Pan:

Spray a 10 inch bundt pan thoroughly with cooking spray making sure you hit every nook and cranny to prevent sticking This is the key to a clean release

Mix the Filling:

In a big bowl gently toss together cubed French bread frozen potatoes o brien diced cheddar and diced ham until nicely combined The bread will soak up flavors from the ham and cheese

Pack the Pan:

Pour the filling mixture evenly into the prepared bundt pan then firmly press it down just a bit with your hands so everything fits snugly This helps prevent air pockets

Whisk the Egg Custard:

In another big bowl beat together eggs milk heavy cream garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper until fully blended The cream gives a rich finish

Add the Custard:

Slowly ladle or spoon the egg mixture over the bread and filling in the pan making sure to dampen all of it This creates a soft yet sliceable cake

Bake:

Place the filled pan onto a sheet tray to catch drips Bake in a 400 degree oven for one hour After twenty minutes tent foil loosely over the top so the crust does not overbrown

Rest and Release:

Let the cake stand for fifteen minutes out of the oven with foil on so the custard sets Gently invert onto your serving platter and tap to release

Serve with Gravy:

While the cake rests whisk up the white gravy following package instructions Pour generously over slices for classic comfort

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My favorite part is digging into the golden savory edge pieces that crisp up in the pan Last Easter my kids picked out the melty cheese corners to sneak while I was slicing

Storage Tips

Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days Reheat gently in the microwave or oven The leftovers taste delicious and never dry out

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the ham for cooked breakfast sausage or crumbled bacon if you like spinach or mushrooms toss those in for a veggie twist Any cheese with melt factor works here think Swiss Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra tang

Serving Suggestions

Pile on fresh chives or parsley for a bright fresh finish or go bold and top with jalapeno slices Pair slices with a fruit salad and mugs of hot coffee for an easy brunch spread

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Cultural and Historical Context

Breakfast casseroles like this Bundt cake are a classic American potluck and big family breakfast dish They caught on in the seventies when convenience and make ahead meals became a trend but the Bundt pan twist makes this one extra special

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute ham with other meats?

Yes, sausage or cooked bacon work well as substitutes for ham, offering slightly different flavors.

→ Is it possible to use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?

You can use fresh-diced potatoes, but par-cook or sauté them first for best texture and flavor.

→ How do I prevent sticking in the bundt pan?

Coat the bundt pan thoroughly with baking spray, reaching all nooks and crannies before filling.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Assemble the ingredients the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning for convenience.

→ What kind of cheese pairs best besides cheddar?

Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Colby cheese melt nicely and introduce different profiles to the dish.

→ Is gravy necessary?

Gravy adds richness but is optional. The dish is flavorful enough to enjoy without it if preferred.