Classic Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise

Name: Classic Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise: A Perfect Breakfast Delight!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large eggs; 2 English muffins, split and toasted; 4 slices of Canadian bacon; 1 tablespoon white vinegar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 3 large egg yolks; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on December 20, 2025

Morning Favorite

Introduction to Classic Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise

Ah, Classic Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for those busy mornings when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of poached eggs and rich hollandaise filled my home, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. It’s a delightful breakfast that feels fancy yet is surprisingly simple to whip up. Whether you’re treating yourself or hosting brunch, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise

This Classic Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise is a game-changer for busy mornings. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. The combination of creamy hollandaise, perfectly poached eggs, and savory Canadian bacon creates a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s versatile enough to impress guests or simply treat yourself on a lazy Sunday. Who doesn’t love a little indulgence in their day?

Ingredients for Classic Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large eggs: The stars of the show! Fresh eggs are key for poaching, giving you that perfect runny yolk.
English muffins: These toasted delights serve as the base. They soak up the hollandaise beautifully, adding a satisfying crunch.

Canadian bacon: This adds a savory touch. If you prefer, you can swap it for ham or even smoked salmon for a twist.
White vinegar: A little splash in the poaching water helps the egg whites set quickly, keeping your eggs looking lovely.

Unsalted butter: The heart of the hollandaise sauce. It brings richness and creaminess to the dish.
Egg yolks: These create the base of your hollandaise. They add a beautiful color and velvety texture.
Lemon juice: A splash of acidity brightens the hollandaise, balancing the richness of the butter.

Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste for that perfect flavor.

Feel free to get creative! You can add sautéed spinach or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition. For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.

How to Make Classic Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this Classic Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise. I promise, it’s easier than it sounds! Just follow along, and soon you’ll be serving up a breakfast that looks like it came from a fancy restaurant.

Step 1: Prepare the Hollandaise Sauce

First things first, let’s make that luscious hollandaise sauce. In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Keep it warm but not bubbling. Meanwhile, whisk together the egg yolks and lemon juice in a separate bowl. Place this bowl over a pot of simmering water, creating a gentle double boiler. Whisk continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes pale. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Now, slowly drizzle in the warm melted butter while whisking. This is where the magic happens! Keep whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside. If it gets too thick, just add a splash of warm water to loosen it up.

Step 2: Poach the Eggs

Next, let’s get those eggs poaching! In a large pot, bring water and a tablespoon of white vinegar to a gentle simmer. The vinegar helps the egg whites set quickly, which is key for a beautiful poached egg. Crack each egg into a small bowl, then gently slide them into the simmering water. Poach the eggs for about 3-4 minutes. You want the whites to be set, but the yolks should still be runny. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can poach multiple eggs at once, just make sure they have enough space to float around.

Step 3: Cook the Canadian Bacon

While the eggs are poaching, it’s time to heat up the Canadian bacon. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the slices until they’re heated through and slightly crispy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. The sizzling sound is music to my ears! If you’re using ham or smoked salmon, just warm them up gently. You want them to complement the eggs, not overpower them.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Now comes the fun part—assembly! Start by placing a slice of Canadian bacon on each toasted English muffin half. Then, gently lift a poached egg from the water using a slotted spoon and place it on top of the bacon. Finally, drizzle that velvety hollandaise sauce over the eggs. Don’t be shy; let it cascade down the sides! Serve immediately, and watch as everyone digs in with delight. Trust me, the smiles will be worth it!

Tips for Success

Use the freshest eggs possible for the best poaching results.
Keep the hollandaise sauce warm, but not hot, to prevent it from separating.

Practice poaching eggs in advance to perfect your technique.
Toast the English muffins just before serving for that perfect crunch.
Don’t rush! Enjoy the process and savor the delicious outcome.

Equipment Needed

Medium saucepan: For melting butter and making hollandaise. A double boiler works too!

Whisk: Essential for mixing the hollandaise. A fork can work in a pinch.
Slotted spoon: Perfect for lifting poached eggs. A regular spoon can do the job as well.
Skillet: For cooking Canadian bacon. A non-stick pan is ideal.

Pot: To simmer water for poaching eggs. Any deep pot will suffice.

Variations of Classic Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise

Vegetarian Benedict: Swap the Canadian bacon for sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted tomatoes for a fresh twist.
Smoked Salmon Benedict: Replace the bacon with smoked salmon for a luxurious, ocean-inspired flavor.

Avocado Benedict: Add sliced avocado on top of the bacon or instead of it for a creamy, healthy option.
Spicy Benedict: Drizzle some sriracha or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the hollandaise for a kick of heat.
Gluten-Free Benedict: Use gluten-free English muffins or substitute with sweet potato rounds for a hearty base.

Serving Suggestions for Classic Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise

Fresh fruit salad: A light and refreshing side that complements the richness of the dish.
Crispy hash browns: For a satisfying crunch, serve alongside your eggs benedict.
Bloody Mary: This classic brunch cocktail pairs perfectly with the flavors of hollandaise.

Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley adds a pop of color and flavor.
Presentation: Serve on a beautiful platter for an elegant brunch experience.

FAQs about Classic Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise

Can I make hollandaise sauce ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare hollandaise sauce in advance. Just keep it warm and gently reheat it before serving. A little warm water can help if it thickens too much.

What can I substitute for Canadian bacon? If Canadian bacon isn’t your thing, feel free to use ham, turkey bacon, or even smoked salmon. Each option brings its own unique flavor to the dish.

How do I poach eggs perfectly? The key to poaching eggs is to use fresh eggs and a gentle simmer. Adding vinegar to the water helps the egg whites set quickly, resulting in a beautiful poached egg.

Can I make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! Swap the Canadian bacon for sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even roasted tomatoes. You’ll still enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.

What sides pair well with Classic Eggs Benedict? Fresh fruit salad, crispy hash browns, or a light green salad make excellent sides. They balance the richness of the eggs and hollandaise beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Making Classic Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise is more than just cooking; it’s about creating a moment of joy. The rich flavors and beautiful presentation can turn an ordinary breakfast into a special occasion. I love how this dish brings my family together, sparking laughter and conversation over a shared meal. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a leisurely weekend, this recipe is a delightful way to start the day. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the delicious rewards. Trust me, the smiles around the table will be worth every minute spent in the kitchen!