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There’s something truly delightful about the first bite of California Style Eggs Benedict. Imagine a brunch spread where sunny, perfectly poached eggs balance on crunchy, toasted English muffins, each bite layered with creamy avocado and tangy tomato. The golden hollandaise drizzled over the top adds a touch of luxury that transforms your morning from mundane to extraordinary.

This recipe became my go-to after a particularly chaotic week, where takeout just didn’t cut it. As I experimented in my kitchen, combining fresh, vibrant ingredients, I discovered a dish that’s not only easy to make but also impressively versatile. Whether it’s a relaxed Sunday morning or a festive gathering, this Eggs Benedict brings warmth and comfort to the table.

So, gear up for a culinary adventure that elevates breakfast to a whole new level—one that even your fast-food-loving friends will be begging for a taste! Let’s dive into the deliciousness of California Style Eggs Benedict!

Why make California Style Eggs Benedict?

Deliciously Unique: This recipe reimagines a classic, incorporating creamy avocado and fresh tomatoes for a California twist that delights the palate.
Easy to Prepare: With simple directions and everyday ingredients, you can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute brunches.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress guests at your next gathering with a dish that looks elegant and tastes amazing.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize by adding your favorite toppings, from smoked salmon to wilted spinach, giving it a personal touch.
Elevated Cooking Skills: Mastering poached eggs and hollandaise sauce will elevate your kitchen game, impressing even seasoned chefs.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Packed with healthy fats from avocado and protein-rich eggs, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition!
Give this dish a try, and see why it’s become a favorite in my home!

California Style Eggs Benedict Ingredients

Unlock the secret to the perfect breakfast!

For the Poached Eggs
• Eggs – These should be fresh for the best poaching results.
• White Vinegar – Helps set the egg whites for a perfect poach.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of the eggs while poaching.

For the Hollandaise Sauce
• Egg Yolks – Use large, room temperature yolks for a creamy texture.
• Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and acidity to balance the richness.
• Salt – A pinch helps bring out the flavors in your sauce.
• Cayenne Pepper – Just a dash for some extra flavor kick!
• Salted Butter – Essential for achieving that rich and luxurious hollandaise.

For the Assembly
• English Muffins – Split and toasted until golden for a crispy base.
• Avocados – Sliced thinly, they provide creaminess and healthy fats.
• Tomatoes – Fresh, thin slices add juiciness and a touch of sweetness.

Elevate your breakfast game by bringing the California Style Eggs Benedict to life with these delightful ingredients!

How to Make California Style Eggs Benedict

Prepare the Eggs: Break the eggs into ramekins or small dishes carefully. This makes it easier to add them to the water when you start poaching.
Simmer the Water: In a stockpot, bring about 3 inches of water, along with white vinegar and salt, to a simmer over high heat, then reduce to medium-low. The gentle bubbles create the perfect environment for poaching.
Create a Whirlpool: Using a spoon, stir the simmering water to create a gentle whirlpool. This helps the egg whites wrap around the yolk for a neater poach.
Poach the Eggs: Carefully tip an egg into the water, whites first, and do this for only one or two eggs at a time to give them space. Cook for around 3.5 minutes until they are just set.
Dry the Eggs: Once cooked, remove the poached eggs with a slotted spoon, allowing excess water to drain off. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to dry. Repeat for the remaining eggs.
Make the Hollandaise Sauce: While the eggs are poaching, prepare your hollandaise. In a blender, combine the egg yolks, lemon juice, salt, and cayenne, blending on high until frothy.
Melt the Butter: Heat the salted butter in a microwavable bowl for about 90 seconds, or until it’s melted and steaming. This hot butter will give your sauce a rich texture.
Blend the Sauce: With the blender on high, slowly add the hot butter to the egg yolk mixture in a thin, steady stream. Keep blending until the mixture thickens, creating a luscious hollandaise.
Assemble the Dish: To serve, place two toasted English muffin halves on each plate. Top each with three slices of avocado, a slice of tomato, and then a perfectly poached egg.
Finish with Sauce: Drizzle the warm hollandaise sauce generously over the egg tops. Serve your lovely California Style Eggs Benedict immediately for the best experience.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

California Style Eggs Benedict is a fabulous recipe for meal prep! You can poach the eggs up to 24 hours in advance—simply let them cool and store them in a bowl of ice water in the refrigerator; this prevents overcooking and keeps them firm. The hollandaise sauce can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days, but make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the poached eggs in simmering water for about 1-2 minutes, and whisk the hollandaise sauce over low heat until warm. Assemble with toasted English muffins, avocado, and tomato, and you’ll enjoy a restaurant-quality breakfast with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for California Style Eggs Benedict

Fresh Eggs: Always use the freshest eggs possible for the best poaching results; older eggs tend to spread in the water, making them harder to poach neatly.

Vinegar Magic: Don’t skip the white vinegar! It helps coagulate the egg whites, ensuring they don’t drift apart during poaching—this is crucial for a beautiful presentation.

Whirlpool Technique: Creating a whirlpool in the simmering water is key. It helps the egg whites wrap tightly around the yolk, resulting in a perfectly shaped poach.

Temperature Control: Keep the poaching water at a gentle simmer rather than a rapid boil to prevent your eggs from breaking apart.

Butter Temperature: Ensure the butter is hot and steamy when adding it to the blender; this will give your hollandaise sauce a rich, smooth texture.

Creative Customization: Feel free to experiment with toppings! Adding ingredients like smoked salmon or sautéed spinach can elevate your California Style Eggs Benedict and cater to different tastes.

How to Store and Freeze California Style Eggs Benedict

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the eggs moist.

Freezer: While freezing the assembled dish isn’t ideal, leftover hollandaise can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge and reheat slowly in a double boiler for best results.

Reheating: For best taste, reheat poached eggs in hot water for just a minute or two to restore their warmth without overcooking.

Serving Suggestions: Enjoy leftovers as a breakfast wrap with some fresh greens or on top of a salad for a delightful twist!

What to Serve with California Style Eggs Benedict?

Ready to elevate your brunch table with delightful accompaniments that bring out the best in your dish?

Crispy Hash Browns: Golden and crunchy, these potatoes add a satisfying texture that complements the creamy hollandaise beautifully.
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a light vinaigrette will provide a crisp counterpoint to the rich eggs and sauce.
Smoked Salmon: For an extra touch of sophistication, layer some smoked salmon on the English muffins before adding the eggs; it lends a flavorful depth.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits like berries or melon balance the savory elements and add a burst of natural sweetness.
Sparkling Mimosa: Starting brunch with a fizzy mimosa can uplift the mood and adds a celebratory touch to your meal.
Baked Tomatoes: Roasted or baked tomatoes introduce a warm, juicy texture that wonderfully complements the dish’s creaminess, enhancing the overall experience.

These delightful pairings will make your California Style Eggs Benedict an unforgettable brunch sensation!

California Style Eggs Benedict Variations

Customize your California Style Eggs Benedict for a personal touch that elevates every bite!

Dairy-Free: Swap out butter for olive oil or dairy-free margarine for a creamy hollandaise without the dairy.
Extra Spice: Add some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the hollandaise for a zesty kick!
Smoky Twist: Incorporate smoked salmon as a topping for a delightful twist that compliments the poached eggs beautifully.
Herby Freshness: Stir in fresh herbs like dill or chives into the hollandaise for a burst of freshness that brightens each bite.
Whole Grain Love: Use whole grain or rye English muffins for added fiber and a nuttier flavor that pairs well with the rich ingredients.
Vegetable Delight: Add wilted spinach or sautéed mushrooms under the poached egg for a heartier version that packs in more veggies!
Avocado Upgrade: Try a spicy avocado mash, mixing in lime juice and cilantro, to give your dish an extra creamy and zesty layer.
Sweet Heat: For a sweet and spicy combo, drizzle a little honey over the poached eggs before serving to pair wonderfully with the tangy sauce.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas for a delightful breakfast experience every time!

California Style Eggs Benedict Recipe FAQs

What type of eggs should I use for poaching?
Absolutely! Fresh eggs are a must for poaching. The fresher the egg, the tighter the whites will hold together when they hit the simmering water, resulting in perfectly shaped poached eggs. Look for eggs that are a week old or less for the best results.

How do I store leftovers from California Style Eggs Benedict?
Very straightforward! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of water to the container to help keep the eggs moist.

Can I freeze the hollandaise sauce?
Absolutely! You can freeze hollandaise sauce for up to a month. Pour it into a freezer-safe container, making sure to leave some space to allow for expansion. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat it slowly in a double boiler, stirring gently to restore its smooth texture.

What if my poached eggs are falling apart?
Ah, the dreaded broken poach! If this happens, it’s likely due to older eggs or boiling water instead of a gentle simmer. To avoid this, I recommend creating a gentle whirlpool in the water before adding the eggs and ensuring you’re using the freshest eggs possible. If they still fall apart, you can always turn them into a scramble—it’ll taste just as delightful!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very good question! The California Style Eggs Benedict includes eggs and butter, so it may not be suitable for those with egg allergies or dairy intolerances. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using a vegan egg substitute or vegan butter for the hollandaise. Plus, this dish can be made gluten-free by opting for gluten-free English muffins!

How can I make this recipe healthier?
Definitely! You can enhance the nutritional value by incorporating more veggies. Try adding sautéed spinach or kale with your avocado and tomatoes, or swap the traditional English muffins for whole grain varieties. These tweaks will not only boost the health factor but also add vibrant flavors to your California Style Eggs Benedict!