This Cake Lorraine recipe creates a savory French loaf rich with crispy bacon, sharp cheese, and tender crumb. It’s the kind of rustic bake that feels equally at home on a sunny picnic blanket or a cozy brunch table.
Inspired by the flavors of a classic quiche Lorraine, this portable version is perfect for brunches, picnics, aperitifs, or light meals. If you love hearty, savory baking, you might also enjoy our Savory Tart with Bok Choy, Bacon, and Parmesan, another flavorful favorite that’s both rustic and satisfying.
Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s a satisfying alternative to sweet cakes — proving that not all cakes need to be sugary. And if you’re planning a bigger spread, our Gratinated Portobello Mushrooms make a hearty, cheesy side to complete the meal.
✅ Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
🧾 Ingredients
- 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons (8g) baking powder
- ½ teaspoon (2g) salt
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup (120ml) whole milk
- ⅓ cup (80ml) olive oil
- 1 cup (150g) diced cooked bacon
- 1 cup (100g) grated Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
- 2 tablespoons (10g) chopped fresh parsley or chives
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a standard loaf pan (about 9×5 inches / 23×13cm).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs, milk, and olive oil until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined.
- Fold in the bacon, cheese, and herbs gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until golden and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
📌 Notes
- Make sure the bacon is well-drained and cooled before adding to the batter.
- Don’t overmix once you add the wet to dry ingredients — a light hand keeps the cake tender.
- Cake Lorraine is delicious served slightly warm or at room temperature.
🔄 Variations & Add-ons
- Add sautéed onions or leeks for an extra savory boost.
- Swap Gruyère for sharp cheddar, Emmental, or goat cheese.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for Mediterranean flair.
🥄 Estimated Nutrition Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 520mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 12g
🌍 The Story Behind Cake Lorraine
While quiche Lorraine remains the best-known dish from the Lorraine region of France, savory cakes like this evolved as practical, portable meals.
Filled with the same cheese-and-bacon richness but baked into a sturdy loaf, Cake Lorraine offers French rustic elegance in a simpler, sliceable form.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Slice and serve warm or at room temperature with a green salad.
It’s perfect for brunch buffets, picnic baskets, or packed lunches.
Pairs beautifully with crisp white wine or a cold lager.
❓ FAQs
Can I make Cake Lorraine ahead?
Yes — it keeps very well for up to 3 days, covered at room temperature.
Can I freeze it?
Absolutely — slice, wrap, and freeze for easy single servings.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes — omit the bacon and replace with sautéed mushrooms or more cheese.
✨ Final Thoughts
Cake Lorraine is proof that “cake” doesn’t always have to mean dessert — sometimes it means golden, savory slices packed with cheese, bacon, and joy.
It’s an easy way to add a little French flair to any meal.
