How to Make a Classic French Quiche with a Golden, Flaky Crust

How to Make a Classic French Quiche with a Golden, Flaky Crust

A classic French quiche is a perfect blend of a buttery, flaky crust and a rich, creamy custard filling. Whether served warm or cold, quiche makes an elegant addition to any meal. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a perfectly balanced quiche with a golden, flaky crust.

Ingredients

For the Crust (Pâte Brisée)

• 1 ¼ cups (150g) all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3–4 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• ½ cup (120ml) whole milk
• 3 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheese (Gruyère, Comté, or Emmental)
• ½ cup (75g) cooked bacon or ham (optional)
• ½ cup (75g) sautéed vegetables (such as onions, leeks, or spinach)

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Incorporate the Butter – Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work them into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Ice Water – Drizzle in ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing.
4. Form the Dough – Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Blind Bake the Crust

1. Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll Out the Dough – On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12-inch circle, about ⅛ inch thick.
3. Transfer to a Tart Pan – Gently place the dough into a 9-inch tart pan or pie dish, pressing it against the edges. Trim any excess.
4. Dock the Dough – Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent puffing.
5. Blind Bake – Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove the weights and bake for another 5 minutes, or until lightly golden.

Step 3: Make the Filling

1. Whisk the Custard – In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
2. Layer the Ingredients – Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the pre-baked crust. Add the cooked bacon, ham, or vegetables if using. Pour the custard over the top.
3. Add More Cheese – Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake the Quiche

1. Lower the Oven Temperature – Reduce the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake Until Set – Place the quiche in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly wobbly.
3. Cool and Serve – Let the quiche cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Tips for a Perfect Quiche

• Use Cold Butter – This ensures a flaky crust.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough – Minimal handling prevents a tough crust.
• Blind Bake for a Crisp Crust – Skipping this step can result in a soggy bottom.
• Customize Your Filling – Try smoked salmon, mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers.
• Let It Rest – This allows the custard to set properly and improves the texture.

Enjoy your homemade classic French quiche with a golden, flaky crust—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner!