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Hole in the Bread

Hole in the Bread on a plate.
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A classic breakfast favorite that’s equal parts playful and satisfying. ‘Hole in the Bread’—also known as egg in a hole—is made with just bread, butter, and eggs, but delivers big comfort. Whether you keep it simple or go all in with a quick French toast twist, it’s a breakfast worth waking up for.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 slices whole wheat bread (or other sturdy bread)
  • 8 large eggs
  • 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, plus more if needed

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe dish and set aside.
  2. Using a round cup or cutter (about 2½ inches wide), cut a hole in the center of each bread slice. Keep the cut-out centers—you’ll cook those too.
  3. Preheat an electric skillet to 300°F or set a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat.
  4. Brush both sides of the bread slices and their centers generously with the melted butter.
  5. Add as many slices (and their cut-out centers) to the skillet as will fit comfortably without crowding.
  6. Place a small pat of butter into each hole. Crack one egg into each hole and cook slowly until the egg begins to set and the bread is golden brown on the bottom, about 3–4 minutes.
  7. Carefully flip each slice and cook the other side until the egg is done to your liking, 1–2 minutes for runny yolks, longer for fully set.
  8. Repeat with the remaining bread, eggs, and butter.
  9. Serve warm, with the crispy centers on the side.

Equipment

Notes

  1. Timing is key for steps 4–7. Because the bread hits a hot skillet before the egg is added, work quickly to add the butter pat and crack in the egg. This ensures the egg begins setting before the bread overcooks. When flipping, use extra care—eggs may pull away slightly from the bread if not fully set.
  2. For a firmer, fully cooked center, you can gently break the yolk right after adding the egg. This helps it cook through more evenly and avoids any runny center when flipped.

Find it online: https://foodienoise.com/hole-in-the-bread/