Classic Flaky Crust Quiche Simple and Savory Recipe

If you crave a dish that feels both special and simple, this Classic Flaky Crust Quiche is for you. With a buttery, crispy crust and creamy filling, it hits the mark every time. Whether for brunch or dinner, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and full of flavor. Join me as I guide you through the steps to create a quiche that will impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

Classic Flaky Crust Ingredients

– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

– ½ teaspoon salt

– ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes

– 4-5 tablespoons ice-cold water

For the crust, you will need flour, salt, butter, and ice-cold water. The cold butter makes the crust flaky. Mix the flour and salt, then add butter. Use your fingers to blend until it looks like crumbs. Add ice-cold water one spoon at a time. This helps the dough stick together without being wet.

Filling Ingredients

– 6 large eggs

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup whole milk

– 1 cup shredded cheese (choose from Gruyère, cheddar, or a blend)

– 1 cup diced vegetables (consider a mix of spinach, bell peppers, and onions)

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

– ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional for added warmth)

For the filling, you will need eggs, cream, milk, cheese, and vegetables. The eggs give the quiche its base. Cream and milk make it rich. You can choose cheese like Gruyère or cheddar for flavor. Add your favorite vegetables for extra taste and nutrition. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg for warmth.

Optional Seasonings

– Fresh herbs like parsley or chives

– Dried herbs such as thyme or basil

You can add fresh herbs to brighten the quiche. Dried herbs also work well. They add depth and enhance the taste. Experiment with different herbs to find your favorite mix.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Flaky Crust

To make the crust, start with a large bowl. Combine 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt. Add ½ cup of chilled, cubed butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until it looks like coarse crumbs. This step is key for a flaky crust. Next, add 4-5 tablespoons of ice-cold water slowly. Mix gently until the dough holds together but is not sticky. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

Prepping the Oven and Crust

While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your quiche bakes evenly. After chilling, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface. Aim for a circle about 12 inches wide. Place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Press it into the bottom and sides gently. Trim any excess dough and poke holes in the base with a fork.

Next, line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes until the edges are golden. Then, remove the weights and parchment. Bake for 5 more minutes until the bottom is set. Let the crust cool a bit.

Filling the Quiche

Now, prepare the filling. In a bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 cup of whole milk. Mix until smooth. Add salt, pepper, and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg if you like. For the filling, evenly spread 1 cup of diced vegetables, like spinach, bell peppers, and onions, over the crust. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top. Finally, pour the egg mixture over everything, making sure it covers all the ingredients.

Your quiche is almost ready! Now, bake it in the oven for 35-40 minutes. The filling should be set and the top lightly browned. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving a Perfectly Flaky Crust

To make a flaky crust, keep your butter cold. Use unsalted butter for flavor control. When mixing butter into flour, stop when it looks like coarse crumbs. This method keeps air in the dough. Add ice-cold water slowly. Only mix until it holds together. Chill the dough for 30 minutes. This step helps in keeping the crust flaky.

Ensuring a Creamy Filling

To create a creamy filling, whisk together eggs, cream, and milk. Use large eggs for the best results. The heavy cream adds richness, while whole milk balances it. Season well with salt and pepper. For an extra touch, add nutmeg. This spice adds warmth and depth. Make sure all ingredients blend well. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the quiche warm or at room temperature. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Pair it with a light green salad for a fresh side. This adds color and crunch to your meal. You can also serve it with a light vinaigrette. This keeps your meal refreshing and balanced. Enjoy the quiche for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s perfect for any time!

Variations

Ingredient Swaps for Quiche

You can easily change the ingredients in quiche. If you want a lighter option, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk. This will give you creaminess with fewer calories. For a cheese swap, use feta or goat cheese instead of cheddar or Gruyère. These cheeses add a tangy flavor that many love.

Flavor Combinations to Try

Mix and match flavors to make your quiche unique. Add cooked bacon or sausage for a hearty dish. You might also enjoy adding smoked salmon with dill. For a vegetarian twist, try roasted zucchini or sun-dried tomatoes. Don’t forget herbs! Fresh basil, thyme, or chives can enhance any flavor.

Gluten-Free Crust Options

If you need a gluten-free crust, almond flour works well. Combine it with cold butter and a bit of salt. Press the mixture into your pie dish. You can also use store-bought gluten-free pie crusts. They save time and taste great. Just remember to follow the package instructions for baking.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Quiche

To keep leftover quiche fresh, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. You can also cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This method keeps the quiche tasty and safe to eat later.

Reheating Tips

When you want to enjoy your leftover quiche, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the quiche on a baking sheet. Heat it for about 15-20 minutes. This helps keep the crust crispy and the filling warm. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Heat slices for about 1-2 minutes. Be careful, as microwaving may make the crust softer.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze quiche, first let it cool down completely. Wrap it well in plastic wrap, then in foil. This prevents freezer burn. You can freeze quiche for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it in the oven for the best texture. Enjoy your delicious quiche anytime!

FAQs

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk. These options lower the fat but keep a creamy texture. You can also blend silken tofu with a little milk for a dairy-free option. This mix gives you creaminess with less fat.

How do I prevent a soggy crust?

To avoid a soggy crust, pre-bake it. This step firms up the crust and keeps it crisp. Use pie weights or dried beans when you bake it. This keeps the crust from puffing up. Make sure to cool it slightly before adding the filling.

Can I make quiche in advance?

Yes, you can make quiche ahead of time! Prepare it the day before and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it in the oven. This keeps it warm and tasty.

You now know how to make a delicious quiche. We covered the flaky crust, filling, and helpful tips. I also shared fun variations and storage tips. With these steps, you can impress friends and family. Quiche is flexible and easy to adapt. Remember, a little creativity goes a long way. Enjoy making your own quiche and share your result