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Hmm, so where shall I begin?
Yesterday’s post was clearly a bit of a struggle for me (Monday…of course) but today I have SO much to chat about. This strata, my mom’s Christmas morning tradition of waffle strata and monkey bread, and then… the most exciting thing!
My little bro just KILLEDÂ it at the Dew Tour. I know this is a food blog and all, but you guys, I have to do my sisterly duty and brag a little. That kid made his entire family (aka the Gerard Family Circus) incredibly proud, but I think I have to be the most. Little Red just proved so much to everyone this last week. At only 15 years old, and placing 5th in a huge profession competition with the top snowboarders in the world. Yes, you guys in the world. He was the only American in the top 5! It’s a big frickin deal.
I can’t lie, the kids got skills.
I honestly could not be more excited for him. AND you guys, he even got me to go outside into the real world to watch him compete. I actually stopped working for almost FOUR hours. I know, I know, I still cannot believe it. I have to say, he made it worth it, and I would do it all over again. Although, watching him literally fly off 75 foot jumps is maybe one of the most nerve-racking things. Like ever.
Watching him nail (or stomp as all my brothers would say) his second run? Best feeling. Just so happy and proud of that kid. If you are at all curious to read more, you can check out a video and info here (just the very beginning of the video). A recap will be shown on NBC on 12/20 at 2:30 EST. You can also search his name if you’re super curious. Oh, and if you’re really into it, you could give him a like on Instagram. He’d be extra pumped on that.
Just sayin.
Okay, okay. Let’s talk about food now.
Monte Cristo Waffle Strata actually. Maybe one of the most retro recipes to ever be posted on Half Baked Harvest. But hey, it’s good.
Growing up my mom always tried to make something not so sweet and sugary to go along with her Monkey Bread. She would make this waffle strata thing with Pillsbury Waffles, eggs, sausage (or maybe ham), cheese and then I dunno really know what else. I don’t remember eating it to be honest with you, but I remember my mom making it. So this year, I kind of really wanted to make a Monte Cristo and then I got to thinking it might be really good as strata.
Verdict? Yes, it is!
This is literally a Monte Cristo sandwich, but perhaps better. I mean, for one there’s waffles. Waffles that get soaked in an eggy batter, baked and topped with all the traditional toppings. Well, I used a homemade cranberry raspberry jam, but then all the traditional toppings.
You guys, this is SO good and SO easy. It takes maybe ten to twenty minutes to assemble and if you’re not feeling the homemade waffles, you can use store-bought. As much as I LOVE the homemade buttermilk waffles, I get it, it’s Christmas and things are flipping busy. You gotta do what you gotta do.
All that said, if you have the time and ability to make my waffle recipe you should. It’s definitely a hit around here. I think the boys ate the whole batch the day I made these…meaning I had to make more. The good news is, they’re really easy to make. YES.
This is the perfect breakfast for Christmas morning. You can make it the night before, let it sit in the fridge and then just have it bake while you open presents. Then eat!!
I have to say this though, the toppings for this recipe are a must… A MUST. I recommend turning your leftover cranberry sauce into a homemade topping for this dish. I just added a couple tablespoons of maple syrup to the sauce, plus a fresh pack of raspberries. It was so delicious…and festive too! Powdered sugar is also a NEED, plus I highly recommend a drizzle of maple syrup. Not highly, like you should do it. <–DO IT.
I know that sounds a bit sweet but with the eggy batter and the swiss cheese inside the waffles?!? Whoa. Yum!
Oh, I also added a dollop of Creme Fraiche, cause I mean, why not? It’s Christmas, GO FOR IT!
Trust me, make this breakfast Christmas morning and everyone will be extra happy.
Nutritional information is only an estimate. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.
And I’ll take that bite please…wait…on second thought, just pass the plate. DONE.
Hi, For the flour do I use self rising or all ?
all-purpose. Hope you love this! Happy Holidays!
Absolutely adore every single look.
http://www.boomcraftbeer.com
I like it, good idea.
Wow! This is so creative! And it seems like the perfect savory thing to go along with other sweeter Christmas morning things. Also, congrats to your brother! Your family is so talented! Seriously, your parents must be so proud!
This is such a great take on a retro recipe and that raspberry + creme fraiche topping is dreamy!
Congrats to Red! How exciting, proud and scared you must have been! This recipe tho – want to make it like right now! Looks great Tieghan!
These look fantastic! Also, the videos you have been making lately are great as well! Keep up the good work!
Wow this looks SO good! I can’t deicde if it’s a sweet or savory recipe?! Could be both at the same time. Brilliant! I imagine you can make a sweeter version too, kinda like waffle french “toast”?? That would be sooo good ð
Love the photography too.
:*
Agnes
Thank you so much, Agnes! ð
Congrats to your bro!! How exciting to get to witness it yourself!
What a fantastic idea – waffles + monte cristos. Perfect Christmas brunch food!!
I can’t wait to eat these at your restaurant. Is it open yet? (Like you need another project to keep you busy). Sorry, I just want to eat these, RIGHT NOW! Thank you for the awesome recipe, Ardith
I will definitely be making these Christmas morning, they look and sound absolutely delicious!
I love love love waffles !!! I love the savoury/sweet twist you have going ð . Looking forward to breakfast !
Red did so well, I checked out the video – wow !!! he does have skills, I am not surprised you are so proud of him. Well done Red !
Hope you are having a good week ð
Waffles are my favourite treat and these buttermilk waffles look awesome!
Also, congratulations to your brother!
http://bit.ly/1I4PNM4
yum! these seem like the savory version of those amazing sounding gingerbread waffles you posted a little while back. and congrats to your brother! i found a clip of his run and he made it all look so effortless (which i’m sure it isn’t- i avoid skiing in/near terrain parks at all costs lol).