Breakfast & Brunch
This bacon cheese ring with strawberry preserves transforms a simple breakfast into a showstopping sweet-savory masterpiece in just 30 minutes.
The crispy, golden cheese crust encases creamy, melted cheddar, while the smoky bacon adds depth—until you top it with tangy strawberry preserves for a perfect balance of richness and fruitiness. It’s the kind of dish that elevates weekend mornings or brunch gatherings without requiring advanced skills.
The secret lies in the layers: a flaky pie crust base, a rich cheese filling studded with crispy bacon, and that final strawberry preserve drizzle that ties everything together. No rolling dough or complicated techniques—just one pan, minimal prep, and a dish that looks as impressive as it tastes.
The contrast of salty, sweet, and creamy flavors makes it unforgettable. By the time it comes out of the oven, you’ll have a golden, bubbling ring with a crispy edge and a gooey center, all topped with glistening strawberry preserves.
Serve it warm with a side of fresh berries or a simple arugula salad to cut through the richness, or enjoy it plain for a decadent treat. It’s the kind of breakfast that makes everyone at the table ask for seconds.
Perfect for brunch crowds or a special weekend treat, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Let’s get started—your taste buds will thank you.
Ingredients for bacon cheese ring with strawberry preserves
Six ingredients transform into a showstopping breakfast ring that's crispy, cheesy, and sweet all at once.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pie Crust (Store-Bought) 🥧 | 1 sheet | Unrolled, fits 9-inch pan |
| Sharp Cheddar Cheese 🧀 | 1 ½ lbs | Shredded, aged for flavor |
| Bacon 🥓 | 1 lb | Cooked crispy, chopped small |
| Heavy Cream 🥛 | ½ cup | Full-fat for richness |
| Strawberry Preserves 🍓 | ½ cup | Thick, seedless preferred |
| Large Eggs 🥚 | 2 whole | Beaten for binding |
| All-Purpose Flour 🌾 | ¼ cup | For extra crust crispiness |
| Granulated Sugar 🍚 | 2 tbsp | Balances tangy preserves |
| Salt 🧂 | ½ tsp | Kosher or sea salt |
| Black Pepper 🌶️ | ¼ tsp | Freshly ground preferred |
| Unsalted Butter 🧈 | 2 tbsp | Melted for crust brushing |
| Vanilla Extract 🌸 | ½ tsp | Optional, enhances sweetness |
The cheddar is non-negotiable here—sharp, aged cheddar melts best and gives that perfect tangy bite. Bob Evans or Tillamook are my go-tos, but any block cheese you can grate yourself works better than pre-shredded. Bacon should be cooked until crispy (I use Oscar Mayer thick-cut for extra flavor) and chopped small so it distributes evenly. The pie crust? Pillsbury refrigerated is foolproof—no rolling required. If you're feeling fancy, brush the crust with melted butter and sprinkle flour on top before baking for extra crispiness.
No sharp cheddar? Pepper jack adds heat or Colby Jack for mild sweetness. Bacon out of stock? Cooked breakfast sausage crumbles work in a pinch, though the texture won't be identical. Pre-shredded cheese? Drain it and dry it—it's got anti-caking agents that make the filling watery. Strawberry preserves? Any thick, seedless jam works—just avoid chunky fruit. The vanilla is optional but worth it if you've got it (I grab Goya pure extract when I'm doing a big grocery run).
This keeps beautifully—3 days in the fridge wrapped tightly, or 2 months in the freezer if you're planning ahead. Reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until bubbly. Pro tip: Make the filling the night before and refrigerate it—it gets even more flavorful. I always double the batch because it disappears fast at brunch. Serve with fresh berries or a simple arugula salad to cut through the richness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- I’ll be real: this works just as well for a lazy Sunday brunch as it does as a 3 PM pick-me-up. Slice it into wedges, and suddenly you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that’s equal parts impressive and effortless.
- Store-Bought Shortcut: Honestly, the only rolling I do is unspooling bacon—no crust from scratch, no fuss. That store-bought pie dough handles the work while you crisp the bacon and shred the cheese in under 10 minutes.
- Sweet-Savory Magic: Between us, the sharp cheddar and strawberry preserves? It’s like a breakfast-for-dinner hug. The salty, creamy filling gets this bright, jammy kiss that makes every bite feel like a reward.
- Brunch or Snack: I’ll be real: this works just as well for a lazy Sunday brunch as it does as a 3 PM pick-me-up. Slice it into wedges, and suddenly you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that’s equal parts impressive and effortless.
Step-by-step instructions for bacon cheese ring with strawberry preserves
Here's how to create this sweet-savory breakfast masterpiece in just one pan.
Prepare the Crust and Cheese Filling
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Unroll the store-bought pie crust into a 9-inch pan and press it gently into the bottom and up the sides, creating a deep enough ring for your filling. I like to use my fingers to smooth out any air bubbles and ensure an even thickness.
In a large bowl, combine the 1.5 lbs shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 0.5 cup heavy cream, 2 whole large eggs, 0.25 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 0.5 tsp salt, and 0.25 tsp black pepper. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated—you should have a thick, smooth batter. This mixture will form the creamy, cheesy center of your ring.
Cook the Bacon and Assemble the Ring
While the oven preheats, cook the 1 lb bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it's crispy. Drain on paper towels and then chop it into small pieces. I like to leave some of the bacon fat in the skillet—you'll use it to add extra flavor to your crust later.
Pour the cheese mixture into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Then, gently press the chopped bacon into the top of the cheese filling, creating a decorative pattern. This step is where the sweet and savory flavors start to come together—just imagine that rich cheese and smoky bacon waiting for the strawberry topping.
Bake Until Set and Golden
Bake the ring for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. You'll know it's ready when the edges of the crust look crisp and the top has a beautiful golden hue. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
While it bakes, melt the 2 tbsp unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the 0.5 cup strawberry preserves and 0.5 tsp vanilla extract, warming just until the preserves are smooth and spreadable. This will be your sweet glaze for the finished ring.
Glaze and Serve Warm
Remove the ring from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Then, carefully pour the strawberry preserve mixture over the top, letting it drip down the sides. The warm cheese will create a beautiful contrast with the cool, glossy strawberry glaze. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a little extra bacon on top if you're feeling fancy.
Slice the ring into 6 equal wedges and serve immediately while warm. The combination of crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and sweet strawberry preserves creates a perfect balance of flavors in every bite. This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven—trust me, you won't want to wait!
Pro Tips For Making Bacon Cheese Ring With Strawberry Preserves
- Bake Bacon First: Cook the bacon until it’s crisp but not burnt—around 20-22 minutes at 375°F. I learned this the hard way: overcooked bacon turns the cheese filling greasy, while undercooked bacon stays rubbery. Save the drippings for the cream mixture; they add depth.
- Chill the Cream Mixture: Let the heavy cream and shredded cheddar sit in the fridge for 10 minutes before assembling. Cold cream blends smoother with cheese and prevents the filling from oozing out during baking—trust me, your ring will thank you.
- Press the Crust Hard: Roll out the pie crust and press it firmly into the pan, especially the bottom. I used to slap it in casually, and the edges would puff up unevenly. A tight seal keeps the filling contained and gives you that clean, crisp ring shape.
- Brush the Crust Twice: Paint the pie crust with egg wash before adding the cheese ring, then again after baking. The first coat locks in moisture; the second adds shine. Skip the second brush, and your crust will look dull—no one wants a sad-looking ring.
Best sauces and condiments for bacon cheese ring with strawberry preserves
Strawberry Preserve Glaze
Warm the strawberry preserves with 2 tbsp melted butter and ½ tsp vanilla extract over low heat for 2-3 minutes until smooth. This creates a silky glaze that drips beautifully over the warm cheese ring.
I like to use Smucker's strawberry preserves—it's thick enough to hold its shape but still spreads easily. 🍓
Maple-Bourbon Drizzle
For a boozy twist, simmer ¼ cup maple syrup with 1 tbsp bourbon and 1 tbsp heavy cream until slightly thickened. Drizzle this over the ring before serving—it adds depth and pairs perfectly with the smoky bacon. Use Baker's bourbon for a reliable flavor. 🥃
Honey-Lemon Glaze
Mix 3 tbsp honey with 1 tbsp lemon juice and 1 tsp Dijon mustard for a tangy, bright contrast. Warm this mixture gently and drizzle over the ring just before serving. The acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese beautifully. 🍯
Caramelized Onion Topping
Sauté ½ cup thinly sliced onions in 1 tbsp bacon fat until deeply caramelized. Sprinkle these over the ring before baking for an extra layer of sweetness and texture. The onions caramelize perfectly while the ring bakes. 🧅
Whipped Cream Garnish
Whip ½ cup heavy cream with 1 tbsp powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Dollop this on top of each slice right before serving—it adds a light, airy contrast to the dense cheese ring. Use Store brand whipped topping for a quick shortcut. 🍦
Spiced Whipped Cream
Infuse ½ cup heavy cream with ½ tsp cinnamon and ¼ tsp nutmeg while warming it. Whip until fluffy and pipe alongside the ring. The spices complement the strawberry preserves beautifully. 🌶️
Nutrition facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this bacon cheese ring without a store-bought crust? Use your favorite pie crust recipe or even puff pastry for extra flakiness. Just
How do I prevent the cheese filling from getting watery?
Drain pre-shredded cheese thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Use full-fat dairy products (like heavy cream) and avoid overmixing the filling—just stir until combined. For extra insurance, add 1 tbsp cornstarch to the cheese mixture to thicken it during baking.
What's the best way to reheat leftovers?
Wrap slices in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until bubbly. For microwave reheating, cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals—this prevents rubbery bacon. The strawberry preserve topping should be added fresh to maintain its glossy texture.
Can I substitute the strawberry preserves with another fruit?
Yes! Try raspberry preserves for extra tang or peach jam for a more floral note. For a savory twist, drizzle with spiced honey—just reduce the sugar in the cheese filling by 1 tbsp to balance the sweetness. The key is matching the fruit's acidity to complement the rich cheese.
Why did my bacon cheese ring crack or collapse?
This usually happens from overfilling or opening the oven too soon. Let the ring cool for 5 minutes before slicing, and avoid overbaking—it should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center. For extra stability, chill the assembled ring in the fridge for 15 minutes** before baking.