Gourmet Breakfast Sandwich: Runny Egg, Maple Ham & Crispy Apple with Foolproof Blender Hollandaise

This spectacular breakfast sandwich offers an irresistible combination of creamy, salty, sweet, and crunchy, elevating it to a truly special occasion-worthy level. Imagine waking up to a golden-yolked runny egg, perfectly complemented by savory maple-flavored ham, crisp apple slices, all brought together by a silky, rich Hollandaise sauce. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, designed to impress and delight.

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While a simple breakfast sandwich crafted with high-quality ingredients can be wonderfully satisfying, there are times when you crave something truly extraordinary. That’s where this gourmet breakfast sandwich steps in. Starting with the foundation of homemade English muffins (though store-bought will certainly do in a pinch!), this recipe transforms a humble morning meal into a decadent brunch centerpiec. Forget the ordinary ham and cheese; this creation features a luscious runny egg, flavorful maple ham, and crisp apple slices, culminating in a symphony of textures and tastes. The true magic, however, lies in the generous spoonful of rich Hollandaise sauce, which might sound intimidating, but our foolproof blender recipe makes it surprisingly easy. Prepare to be amazed by how quickly you can whip up this luxurious sauce, making this special breakfast treat more accessible than you think.

Let’s be honest: this isn’t your grab-and-go kind of sandwich. This is a gloriously messy affair, one that you’ll likely enjoy with a fork and knife, savoring every layered bite. And that, in my opinion, is precisely how a truly indulgent breakfast sandwich should be. The runny yolk, the creamy sauce, the tender ham, and the crunchy apple all conspire to create a delightful cascade of flavors and textures that are best appreciated without the constraints of neatness. If you prefer a more classic presentation, you could even adapt this dish to an Eggs Benedict style, swapping the fried eggs for perfectly poached ones. The core flavors remain, offering a versatile approach to this exquisite morning meal.

The Star Players: Why Each Ingredient Shines

Homemade English Muffins: The Perfect Foundation

While convenience often dictates using store-bought English muffins, taking the time to make them from scratch elevates this breakfast sandwich significantly. Homemade English muffins boast a superior texture – chewy, yet tender, with those signature nooks and crannies that are perfect for catching every drop of runny yolk and creamy Hollandaise. Their slightly tangy flavor also provides a wonderful counterpoint to the sweetness of the maple ham and apple. If you’re short on time, choose the highest quality store-bought variety you can find; the texture and flavor of your bread base are crucial for a truly satisfying experience.

Blender Hollandaise Sauce: Elegance Made Easy

Hollandaise sauce is often considered the hallmark of gourmet breakfast, a rich, emulsified sauce that adds unparalleled luxury. Many home cooks shy away from making it, fearing a broken sauce. However, our blender Hollandaise recipe removes all the guesswork, making it genuinely foolproof. The secret lies in a steady stream of hot, melted butter slowly incorporated into egg yolks and lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar) in a high-speed blender. This method ensures a perfectly smooth, velvety sauce every single time. Its bright, tangy, and buttery notes cut through the richness of the egg and ham, while tying all the flavors together seamlessly. Don’t skip this step; it’s what truly transforms this from a good sandwich into a spectacular one. Keep it warm until serving, or gently reheat in the microwave on a low setting if needed.

Maple Ham: A Touch of Sweet and Savory

The choice of ham is critical here. Maple-flavored ham brings a delightful sweetness that perfectly balances the savory elements of the egg and Hollandaise. This particular sweetness evokes a sense of comfort and Canadian heritage, reminiscent of a sugar shack breakfast. When cooked lightly, the ham can develop slightly crispy edges, adding another layer of texture. Thinly sliced ham is ideal as it integrates beautifully into the sandwich without overpowering other components. If maple ham isn’t readily available, a good quality smoked ham can be used, perhaps with a very light drizzle of pure maple syrup added to the sandwich itself.

Crispy Apple: The Unexpected Crunch

The addition of thinly sliced crispy apple is a stroke of genius in this breakfast sandwich. It provides a much-needed textural contrast to the soft egg, creamy sauce, and tender ham. More than just texture, the apple brings a refreshing, subtly tart sweetness that brightens the entire dish, preventing it from being too heavy. Opt for a firm, crisp apple variety like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala for the best results. The thin slices ensure that each bite includes that satisfying crunch without overwhelming the delicate flavors.

Runny Egg: The Heart of the Sandwich

A perfectly cooked runny egg is the pièce de résistance. The luscious, flowing yolk acts as a natural sauce, mingling with the Hollandaise and coating every ingredient in rich, golden goodness. Achieving that ideal runny center with set whites is an art, but our cookie cutter method makes it easier to get a round, picture-perfect egg. Alternatively, simply frying the eggs over easy works just as well for a more “rustic” charm. The combination of salt and freshly ground black pepper seasoned eggs enhances their natural flavor, making them a delicious core to your gourmet creation.

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Runny Egg, Maple Ham, and Crispy Apple Breakfast Sandwich with Blender Hollandaise Sauce

Prep Time:20 minutes mins

Cook Time:5 minutes mins

Total Time:25 minutes mins

Servings 4 sandwiches.

Author Marie Asselin

Ingredients

For the Blender Hollandaise Sauce

• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 tbsp warm water
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 tsp kosher salt do not add salt if you use salted butter
• 1/2 cup 1 stick unsalted butter

For the sandwiches

• 4 Homemade or store-bought English muffins
• 4 eggs
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 apple sliced thinly
• 4 to 8 slices of maple-flavored ham see note below
• Blender Hollandaise Sauce
• Watercress or microgreens to serve (optional)

Instructions

• Make the Blender Hollandaise Sauce: In a blender, combine egg yolks, water, lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar), and salt; blend until frothy. Heat butter in the microwave or in a small saucepan over medium heat until bubbly (be careful not to let it brown). With the blender running on low speed, slowly and steadily pour in the hot butter in a very thin stream. Continue blending until the sauce thickens and emulsifies into a smooth, creamy consistency. Transfer the finished Hollandaise to a measuring cup or small bowl and cover to keep warm until ready to serve. You can gently reheat it in the microwave for about 30 seconds on a low power setting if needed before assembling your sandwiches.
• Cook the Eggs: Lightly oil the inside of a round cookie cutter (approximately 3-4 inches in diameter). Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with a pat of butter or a drizzle of olive oil. Place the greased cookie cutter securely in the skillet, then carefully crack an egg inside the ring. Season the egg with a pinch of kosher salt and a grind of fresh black pepper. Cook for about 3 minutes, or until the whites are mostly set but the yolk is still visibly runny. Delicately lift and remove the cookie cutter ring from the skillet, leaving the perfectly round egg behind. Use a thin spatula to carefully flip the egg over. Cook for just an additional minute or less to allow the top to set very lightly while ensuring the yolk remains wonderfully runny. Transfer the cooked egg to a warm plate and set aside. Repeat this process for the remaining eggs, cooking them one at a time or as many as your skillet can comfortably hold without overcrowding.
• Alternative Egg Cooking: If you prefer a more “rustic” appearance or don’t have a cookie cutter, simply fry your eggs over easy or sunny-side up, ensuring the yolks are still deliciously runny. This method is quicker and still delivers the same fantastic flavor and texture profile.
• Assemble the Sandwiches: Slice the English muffins in half horizontally and toast them lightly until golden brown and warm. Arrange one half of a toasted English muffin on each serving plate. Spoon a generous dollop of the warm Hollandaise sauce onto the muffin half, spreading it gently. Layer one or two slices of maple ham over the sauce, followed by a few crisp, thinly sliced apple pieces. Carefully place a fried runny egg on top of the apple slices. Crown the egg with another spoonful of Hollandaise sauce, allowing it to drip appealingly down the sides. For a vibrant garnish and added freshness, sprinkle with watercress or microgreens, if desired. Finally, place the second English muffin half on top to complete the sandwich. Repeat these steps to create all four sandwiches and serve them immediately while everything is warm and delicious. This is a dish best enjoyed fresh!

Did you make this?

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Tips for the Perfect Gourmet Breakfast Sandwich Experience

• Choosing Your Apple: While any crisp apple works, consider varieties like Granny Smith for a tart counterpoint, or Fuji for a sweeter note. Ensure they are thinly sliced for ease of eating and uniform crunch.
• Ham Selection: Look for thinly sliced, high-quality maple-flavored ham. If you can’t find maple ham, a good quality smoked or honey ham will also be delicious. You could lightly pan-fry the ham for a minute or two to warm it and enhance its flavor.
• Garnishes Matter: Watercress or microgreens aren’t just for show. Their peppery, fresh bite adds another layer of flavor and a beautiful visual appeal, contrasting with the richness of the sandwich. Don’t underestimate their power to elevate the dish!
• Serving Suggestions: This sandwich is substantial on its own. However, for a complete brunch, consider serving it alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing finish. A mimosa or a freshly brewed coffee would be perfect accompaniments.
• Embrace the Mess: As mentioned, this is a delightfully messy sandwich. Don’t fight it! Have plenty of napkins on hand and enjoy the experience of savoring every luxurious bite.

This Runny Egg, Maple Ham, and Crispy Apple Breakfast Sandwich with Blender Hollandaise Sauce isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to elevate your breakfast ritual. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting a memorable brunch, or simply treating yourself to an indulgent start to the day, this sandwich promises a truly unforgettable culinary adventure. The combination of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy elements works in perfect harmony, making every bite a delightful surprise. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your guests with this truly spectacular creation.

Disclosure Notice: This post was created in partnership with Maple Leaf Foods. They offered me the opportunity to taste their new line of products inspired by various Canadian regions. Canadian Craft products are made using pork sourced exclusively by Canadian farmers and they contain no added preservatives–making them lovely companions for wholesome sandwiches and lunches. I fell in love with the Canadian Craft Québec Maple Ham as soon as I pulled open the packaging: the pure maple syrup aroma awoke sugar shack memories. How could I resist! The ham is thinly cut, not too salty, with just the right sweetness to make it addictive. It was just perfect to make this breakfast sandwich! Check out Maple Leaf Foods’ website for more information about their Canadian Craft products, or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Maple Leaf Food has offered me monetary compensation to develop a delicious recipe using their product. As always, companies never dictate what recipes I create, or the opinions I express. I only use products I genuinely believe in.

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