Ingredients
- 2 apples - peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, divided
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 eggs
- ½ cup half-and-half
- 4 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 3 stale cinnamon bagels, cubed
- ¼ cup chopped pecans, or more to taste (Optional)
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Better Cooking Tips
- Choose tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance with the sweetness and spice.
- Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes before baking to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 1
Greas an 8-inch square baking dish. In a skillet over medium heat, combine the apples, butter, brown sugar, half a tablespoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cook everything together until the sugar starts bubbling and the apples soften, about 5 minutes, then set it aside to cool a bit.
Step 2
Blend the eggs, half-and-half, cream cheese, and the rest of the cinnamon until you get a smooth mixture. Scatter the cubed bagels, cooked apples, and pecans evenly in the bottom of your baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the top, making sure all the bagel cubes get soaked. Cover and pop it in the fridge for at least 8 hours, or overnight if you can.
Step 3
When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the strata for 30 to 40 minutes, until it’s set and there’s no liquid left. Serve it warm and enjoy!
