Egg in a Hole Breakfast Recipe

Egg in a hole served on plate with crispy edges
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So today I am actually sharing a very simple and quick breakfast idea, and the name of this recipe is Egg in a Hole.

What happens in this recipe is that you basically take one slice of bread, and then you make a small round hole right in the middle of that bread, and after that you cook an egg inside that hole while the bread is getting toasted at the same time.

The whole process is very easy to do, and the taste also comes out quite nice when you eat it.

Sometimes, when there is not much time in the morning and you need something fast, this recipe really works like a perfect rescue because it gets ready quickly and still feels satisfying.


Close shot of Egg in a hole served in a plate
  • Super quick: This recipe actually gets ready in about five minutes, and that means even when there is almost no time in the morning, you can still have breakfast prepared without any delay.
  • Minimal ingredients: For this recipe you only need bread, one egg, and a little bit of butter, and that is basically all that is required, so there is no need for any extra effort or fancy items.
  • Kid-friendly: Children usually feel happy when they see this dish, because the egg in the middle looks quite cute, and they enjoy exploring it while eating.
  • Crispy + soft combo: The edges of the bread turn out crispy, while the egg in the center stays soft and slightly runny, and this mix of textures feels very satisfying when you eat it.
  • Beginner-friendly: Even if someone does not have much confidence in cooking, this recipe still comes out perfect when they try it, and that makes it a completely stress-free option.

  • 1 tablespoon butter – This butter helps the bread toast properly and gives it a light golden color, and it also makes the edges of the bread turn crispy while adding a warm flavor overall.
  • 1 slice bread – Any normal bread slice works fine, but it should be fresh so that when you toast it the texture comes out better.
  • 1 egg – The egg cooks inside the hole in the middle of the bread, and that is the main part of this recipe, and you can keep the yolk runny or cook it until it sets, and both ways taste good.
  • Salt and pepper A little salt and black pepper make the egg taste better, and there is no need to add anything extra because this simple seasoning is enough.

Step 1: Making a hole in the bread

First take one slice of bread, and then make a small round hole right in the middle of that slice. You can use a biscuit cutter for this, or even the rim of a simple glass works fine.

The hole should not be too big, it should only be big enough so that the egg can fit comfortably inside. This step is important because the egg will cook and set in that space.

Step 2: Melting the butter

Now place a nonstick pan on low heat, and then add the butter so that it can melt slowly.

It is better to melt the butter on gentle heat, because that way it does not burn.

When the butter starts to bubble lightly, that is the right time to put the bread in the pan.

Step 3: Toasting the bread

Put the bread slice in the pan and let it toast until it becomes lightly golden.

This makes one side of the bread crispy, which adds a nice texture in the end result.

Usually it takes about one to two minutes, and you should keep the heat on low to medium while doing this.

Step 4: Flipping the bread and adding the egg

Now carefully flip the bread over. After that, crack an egg directly into the hole that you made earlier.

Sprinkle a little salt and pepper on top for flavor. Let the egg cook on low heat, so that the bread underneath can toast properly without burning.

Step 5: Cooking until the egg sets

At this stage you can decide whether you want the yolk to stay runny or to set more firmly.

If you prefer it runny, then cook only until the top layer becomes slightly firm.

If you want the yolk to set, then gently flip the bread once more and cook for another thirty to sixty seconds.

Step 6: Serving the dish

When both the egg and the bread are cooked according to your taste, then take it out of the pan and place it on a plate right away.

It tastes best when served hot, especially because the edges are crispy and the center is soft.

You can also enjoy it with some fruits on the side or with a cup of tea or coffee.


  • Low heat: It is better to keep the heat low, because if the heat is too high then the bread will turn brown very quickly and the egg will not cook properly. When the heat is low, the bread gets toasted evenly and the egg also sets nicely without burning.
  • Hole size: The hole should not be too big and it should not be too small. If the hole is too small then the egg will overflow outside, and if the hole is too big then the egg will spread too thin. A medium-sized hole keeps the egg set right in the center.
  • Butter spread: The butter should be spread across the entire surface of the pan. This way the base of the bread becomes evenly crispy, and there are no patchy or soggy parts left behind.
  • Egg cracking: The egg should be cracked directly over the hole, and it should not be cracked on the pan and then slid into the hole. This helps the yolk sit perfectly in the middle and keeps the shape proper.
  • Careful flip: When you flip the bread to cook the second side, you should gently slide the spatula underneath. If the egg is still runny then you should not flip too quickly, otherwise it can break.

  • Cheesy version: After cooking the side with the egg, you can add a little cheddar or mozzarella on top. Once it melts slightly, it gives a flavor that feels similar to something served in a café.
  • Herb twist: You can sprinkle oregano, chili flakes, or parsley on top of the egg. This makes the simple recipe taste a little more flavorful and gives it a slightly fancy touch.
  • Garlic butter toast: Instead of using normal butter, you can use garlic butter. This changes the taste and aroma of the bread, and it feels better especially if you like garlic.
  • Spicy egg in a hole: While adding the egg, you can sprinkle a little red chili powder or peri-peri seasoning. This gives a light spicy kick in the morning, which feels nice.
  • Veg-loaded: After the bread is toasted, you can serve a small scoop of sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach on the side. This adds a healthy touch without requiring much extra effort.

  • With fresh fruits: You can keep some fresh fruits on the side, such as grapes, apple slices, or berries, and this makes the breakfast feel a little more balanced while also making the plate look nicer.
  • Chai or coffee: This recipe tastes very good when served with hot chai or a light cup of coffee, because the crispy texture of the bread and the soft center of the egg together make a perfect match with the drink.
  • Add a simple salad: If you want to go a little more towards the healthier side, then you can place a small cucumber and tomato salad on the side, and this adds a light freshness that makes the meal feel complete.
  • Serve with crispy bacon or sausages (optional): If you want to add some non-vegetarian items, then a few crispy bacon strips or small pieces of sausage work well as a side, although the dish also tastes equally good when served plain.
  • Top with avocado slices: You can place thin slices of avocado on top, and this makes the dish feel a little richer, while the soft taste of avocado combines smoothly with the egg.

1. Storage Instructions:

  • Fridge storage: If you have made extra Egg in a Hole, then you can place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to one day. However, it is important to remember that the taste is always best when it is eaten fresh.
  • Texture change: After keeping it in the fridge, the bread usually becomes a little soft, so you should not expect it to stay as crispy as it was when freshly made. Even then, the flavor remains good enough to enjoy.
  • Separate storage (optional): If you prefer to store the bread and egg separately, then you can cook the egg by scrambling or frying it and keep it aside, while toasting the bread separately. Later on, it becomes easy to assemble them together when you want to eat.

2. Reheating Instructions:

  • Pan reheating: You can heat a nonstick pan on low heat and then warm the bread for one to two minutes on both sides. This method works best because the bread becomes slightly crisp again.
  • Air fryer option: If you want the crispy texture to come back, then you can reheat it in an air fryer for about two to three minutes. Just keep the temperature at a medium level, otherwise the egg may get overcooked.
  • Microwave (quick but not crispy): If you are in a hurry, then you can use the microwave, but the bread will turn soft. Warm it only for twenty to thirty seconds, not more, because otherwise the egg can become rubbery.
  • Avoid reheating multiple times: If the egg is heated again and again, it becomes dry and chewy, so it is better to reheat only once and finish it right away.

  1. Bread gets burnt while making Egg in a Hole, what am I doing wrong?

    Most of the time the heat is too high, and that is why the bread turns brown too quickly while the egg does not get enough time to cook properly. In this recipe, low heat works best because the bread toasts evenly and the egg cooks slowly. If you keep a little patience, then everything comes out fine.

  2. If I do not like runny egg, how should I cook it?

    Once the egg has set, you can flip the bread one more time and cook it for another thirty to sixty seconds. This way the yolk becomes completely firm.

  3. Can I use oil instead of butter?

    Yes, you can use oil, but the taste with butter makes the recipe feel more cozy and flavorful. With oil, the bread does not become as golden as it does with butter.

  4. Which bread works best?

    You can use normal white bread, brown bread, or even multigrain bread, because all of them work fine. The only thing to keep in mind is that the slice should be fresh and of medium thickness, so that it does not break when you make the hole.

  5. The egg overflows, is there any trick?

    This usually happens when the hole is too small or when the egg is not cracked directly in the center. You should keep the hole medium in size and crack the egg directly over the bread, instead of cracking it on the pan and sliding it in.


Egg in a Hole

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 2 minutesCook time: 5 minutesRest time: minutesTotal time: 7 minutesCooking Temp:~180° CServings:1 servingsEstimated Cost (per serving):0.60-0.90 $Calories (per serving):231 kcal Best Season:Fall, Winter, Summer, Spring

Description

This is a quick and simple breakfast that is made by placing an egg in the center of a bread slice and then cooking it while the bread is toasted with butter. The bread becomes crispy on the outside, and the egg in the middle stays soft, which makes the texture feel nice when you eat it. This recipe works well when you are busy in the morning and need something fast, and it also feels good as a light and comforting meal at any time.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Place a nonstick pan on low heat and melt the butter evenly.
  2. Cut a small round hole in the center of the bread slice.
  3. Place the bread in the pan and toast until lightly golden.
  4. Flip the bread and crack the egg directly into the center hole.
  5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  6. Cook until the egg is set to your liking.
  7. Flip gently once more if you want the yolk more firm.
  8. Serve warm and enjoy immediately.

Notes

  • Keep heat low to prevent the bread from burning while the egg cooks.
  • Use fresh bread slices so the hole cuts cleanly and the bread doesn’t tear.
  • If you like the yolk runny, avoid flipping the second time.
Keywords:Non-Vegetarian

Nutrition Facts

Servings 1

Serving Size 1 Egg in a Hole


Amount Per Serving
Calories 231kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 16g25%
Saturated Fat 5g25%
Cholesterol 208mg70%
Sodium 285mg12%
Potassium 99mg3%
Total Carbohydrate 13g5%
Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Sugars 2g
Protein 9g18%

Vitamin A 350 IU
Calcium 67 mg
Iron 2 mg
Vitamin D 40 IU

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000‑calorie diet, and your daily needs may be higher or lower depending on your lifestyle. Nutrition information is shared only as a general estimate and may not always be fully accurate. If you follow a special diet or have specific health concerns, it’s best to check with a registered dietitian for personalized guidance.

About Author

Sophie Garcia

Hi, I’m Sophie! I share cozy, approachable recipes on Pure Recipe Bliss. It is simple dishes made with love to bring warmth and joy to everyday cooking.

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