Ultimate Eggs Benedict Recipe You’ll Want to Master Today

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s a special kind of joy that comes from breakfasting on the classics, and nothing embodies that feeling quite like a homemade Eggs Benedict. Picture this: the scent of warm, toasted English muffins blending beautifully with the savory aroma of Canadian bacon, all topped off with a luscious, silky hollandaise. This dish has a knack for turning any morning into a special occasion, whether it s a lazy Sunday or a celebratory brunch with friends.

I discovered this Eggs Benedict recipe during a spontaneous cooking session, and it transformed my outlook on breakfast. It s surprisingly easy to whip together in just 20 minutes, making it accessible for even the busiest of mornings. Plus, the combination of creamy hollandaise and perfectly poached eggs adds a delightful indulgence that will leave your taste buds dancing.

So, let s dive into this culinary journey together and elevate your breakfast game with a classic that promises to impress!

Why is this Eggs Benedict Recipe a Must-Try?

Simplicity in preparation ensures you can make this breakfast classic even on busy mornings.
Indulgent flavors mix creamy hollandaise with rich Canadian bacon that will delight your taste buds.
Perfectly poached eggs achieve that sought-after runny yolk for an overall decadent experience.
Impressive enough to wow guests, yet easy enough for any home cook to master.
Versatile breakfast or brunch option, this recipe can be customized with your favorite toppings or side dishes.

Eggs Benedict Ingredients

Discover the essential components to create this classic dish.

For the Hollandaise Sauce
3 egg yolks The base of your hollandaise, providing richness and creaminess.
1 tablespoon water Helps create a smoother consistency when whisking the yolks.
1 teaspoon lemon juice Adds brightness and acidity to balance the richness.
8 ounces clarified butter, warm Essential for that luxurious, silky texture; use unsalted for better control of saltiness.
Salt, to taste Enhances the overall flavor of your sauce.
Tabasco sauce or cayenne pepper, to taste A touch of heat to wake up the flavors in your hollandaise.

For the Eggs
8 eggs Fresh eggs are key for perfectly poached results; avoid using cold ones straight from the fridge.
1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar Helps coagulate the egg whites for a neater poach.
1 teaspoon salt Adds flavor to the poaching water.

For the Assembly
4 English muffins, split Toasted to a golden hue, they act as the perfect base for your toppings.
8 slices Canadian bacon Savory and slightly sweet, they add a hearty protein element.
Chives, thinly sliced, for garnish (optional) A pop of freshness and color to finish your dish beautifully.

With these Eggs Benedict ingredients, you re well on your way to creating a breakfast masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

How to Make Eggs Benedict

1. Prepare the hollandaise: Set a glass or metal bowl over a pot of gently simmering water to create a double boiler. Add 3 egg yolks and whisk constantly until thickened, about 5 minutes.
2. Mix in lemon juice: Remove the bowl from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon lemon juice. Keep the bowl on a kitchen towel over the pot to prevent sliding. Slowly whisk in 8 ounces of warmed clarified butter until fully combined. Season with Tabasco or cayenne pepper to taste.
3. Boil the water: Fill a Dutch oven or large pot halfway with water and bring it to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar and reduce to a simmer.
4. Poach the eggs: Crack 8 eggs into small bowls, then gently drop each egg into the simmering water, leaving space between them. Cover the pot and let stand until the egg whites are set, about 3 minutes for soft-cooked eggs.
5. Keep eggs warm: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the poached eggs to a pot with warm water to keep them cozy and warm until serving.
6. Toast the muffins: Arrange 4 English muffin halves on a baking sheet and broil until golden brown, about 2 to 4 minutes. Add one slice of Canadian bacon to each muffin and broil until hot and just beginning to brown, about 1 minute.
7. Assemble your masterpiece: Remove a poached egg from the water, drain on a paper towel, and place it atop each muffin half. Spoon hollandaise over the eggs and garnish with thinly sliced chives, if desired. Serve with any remaining hollandaise on the side for dipping.

Optional: Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Eggs Benedict are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the hollandaise sauce up to 24 hours in advance by whisking the egg yolks and clarified butter, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator just be sure to gently reheat it before serving to maintain that luscious texture. Additionally, you can poach the eggs up to 3 days ahead, storing them in a bowl of cold water in the fridge. When you re ready to serve, simply reheat the eggs in simmering water for a few minutes. Toast the English muffins and Canadian bacon fresh just before assembly for the best flavor, and you ll have a delightful breakfast ready to impress without the last-minute rush!

Eggs Benedict Variations

Feel free to play around with this recipe to create your own breakfast masterpiece!

• Dairy-Free: Use a vegan butter substitute in the hollandaise for a delicious non-dairy version. The creamy texture will still shine through!
• Smoked Salmon: Swap out the Canadian bacon for smoked salmon to give a fresh twist that adds depth and flavor to each bite. It s a delightful combination!
• Veggie Delight: Replace bacon with sautéed spinach or sautéed mushrooms. This option adds color and nutrition without compromising on taste.
• Herb-Infused Sauce: Add fresh herbs like dill or tarragon to the hollandaise for a fragrant, garden-fresh flavor that elevates the dish remarkably.
• Spicy Kick: Identify your heat level by stirring in a bit of Sriracha into the hollandaise for an unexpected and lively pop of flavor.
• Avocado Twist: Top each muffin with avocado slices before adding the poached egg for an ultra-creamy balance that enhances the dish beautifully.
• Whole Wheat Muffins: Substitute English muffins with whole wheat for a healthier, richer flavor; they serve as a heartier base for your eggs.
• Benedict Au Bon Pain: For a French twist, use flaky croissants instead of English muffins and add a layer of brie for a luxurious breakfast experience!

These variations will keep your Eggs Benedict fresh and exciting, ensuring you can enjoy this classic like never before!

Tips for the Best Eggs Benedict

• Whisking Technique: Stir constantly over the heat while making hollandaise to avoid scrambling the yolks and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
• Keep Eggs Fresh: Use fresh eggs for poaching; older eggs tend to spread out in the water, resulting in less appealing shapes.
• Vinegar Importance: The vinegar in the poaching water helps the egg whites coagulate, leading to perfectly formed poached eggs don t skip this step!
• Timing Matters: Keep an eye on your poached eggs; three minutes yields a soft center, while a bit longer provides firmer yolks adjust to your preference.
• Customize It: Don t hesitate to adapt this Eggs Benedict recipe by adding spinach, smoked salmon, or other toppings you love for a personalized twist!

What to Serve with Eggs Benedict?

Imagine a delightful brunch table, adorned with warm pastries, fresh fruit, and vibrant colors alongside your rich and creamy Eggs Benedict.

• Crispy Hash Browns: These golden-brown bites add a satisfying crunch, providing a wonderful contrast to the soft texture of the poached eggs.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the hollandaise and brings a burst of freshness to your plate.
• Sautéed Spinach: This tender green, lightly seasoned with garlic, complements the savory flavors and adds a vibrant pop of color to your meal.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright and juicy fruits like berries and citrus create a refreshing palate cleanser, adding a sweet counterpoint to the savory components.
• Mimosas: This bubbly blend of champagne and orange juice elevates your brunch, offering a festive drink option that harmonizes wonderfully with Eggs Benedict.
• Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: For a gourmet twist, this elegant side dish adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the dish s creaminess.
• Chocolate Croissants: For a touch of indulgence, flaky chocolate croissants round out your meal with a hint of sweetness that balances the savory richness.
• Irish Coffee: Rich, dark coffee combined with Irish whiskey and a dollop of cream adds warmth and an inviting kick to your brunch experience.
• Caramelized Peaches: Delightfully sweet and soft, these seasonal fruits can be served warm alongside your Eggs Benedict, creating a truly special combination.

How to Store and Freeze Eggs Benedict

Fridge: Store leftover Eggs Benedict in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of water to the eggs to maintain moisture.

Freezer: For best results, freeze hollandaise sauce separately in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat gently on the stovetop, whisking to restore creaminess.

Reheating: When ready to serve, gently warm the Canadian bacon and toasted English muffins in the oven. Poach fresh eggs to top each muffin, ensuring a delightful experience with your Eggs Benedict.

Eggs Benedict Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe eggs for my Eggs Benedict?
Absolutely! When choosing eggs, look for those with clean, uncracked shells. Ideally, you want the eggs to be as fresh as possible; check the sell-by date and consider getting them from a local farmer s market. Fresh eggs will give you the best results for poaching as they hold their shape better in the water.

How do I store leftover Eggs Benedict?
You can store leftover Eggs Benedict in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the components individually. Just pop the Canadian bacon and toasted English muffins in the oven at a low temperature, and microwave the remainder, ensuring to add a splash of water to keep the eggs moist.

Can I freeze the components of my Eggs Benedict?
Yes, you can! For the best results, freeze the hollandaise sauce separately in an airtight container for up to 1 month. When reheating, use the stovetop on low heat, whisking continuously to restore its creamy texture. The poached eggs and English muffins are best when made fresh, so I recommend preparing them right before serving.

What should I do if my hollandaise sauce ends up too thick?
If your hollandaise sauce becomes too thick, don t worry! Simply whisk in a teaspoon of warm water or lemon juice until it reaches your desired consistency. Always do this gradually, a little at a time, to avoid making it too thin. It s all about achieving that perfectly silky texture!

Are there dietary considerations I should be aware of for Eggs Benedict?
Definitely! If you re serving this dish to others, consider allergies or dietary preferences. The recipe contains eggs and dairy, so it s not suitable for those with egg or lactose intolerance. For a gluten-free option, substitute English muffins with gluten-free alternatives, and check labels for Canadian bacon if any preservatives or additives are present.

What can I do if my poached eggs break apart during cooking?
Very common! If your poached eggs break apart, it may be due to the freshness of the eggs or the temperature of the water being too high. To prevent breakage, make sure to crack your eggs into small bowls before gently sliding them into the simmering water. For a more controlled cooking environment, you can also create a gentle whirlpool in the water before adding the eggs. This helps the whites wrap around the yolks for a more cohesive poach.