30-Minute Air Fryer Eggs Benedict
This classic brunch favorite gets a modern twist using an air fryer to toast English muffins, warm Canadian bacon, and create perfectly cooked eggs that mimic traditional poached eggs. The rich hollandaise sauce is made from scratch with egg yolks, butter, and lemon juice, creating a creamy, tangy topping. The air fryer method eliminates the need for multiple pots of boiling water while delivering the same elegant presentation and satisfying flavors. Perfect for weekend brunch or special occasions when you want restaurant-quality eggs Benedict at home.
Ingredients
- 4 large egg yolks, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper(optional)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 English muffins, 4 halvestoasted bread1:1wheat-free bread for gluten-free
high
- 4 slices Canadian baconham slices1:1
similar flavor profile
- 4 large eggs
- 8 tablespoons water
- fresh chives, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- 1
Preheat air fryer to 400°F
- 2
Prepare hollandaise sauce by placing egg yolks, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and cayenne in food processor
- 3
Blend egg yolks until lightened in color and pale yellow
- 4
With machine running, slowly drizzle hot melted butter into egg mixture until fully incorporated
- 5
Continue mixing for one minute until sauce is thickened and set aside
- 6
Place split English muffins and Canadian bacon slices in air fryer basket
- 7
Cook at 400°F for 2 minutes until bread is toasted and bacon heated through
- 8
Remove items from basket and keep warm
- 9
Spray heat-safe ramekins with cooking spray and place in air fryer basket
- 10
Add 2 tablespoons water to each ramekin
- 11
Crack one egg into each ramekin
- 12
Cook at 360°F for 4-5 minutes
- 13
Assemble Canadian bacon on each toasted English muffin half
- 14
Use spatula to lift eggs from water and place upside down over bacon
- 15
Top each with hollandaise sauce and garnish with chopped chives
Tips
Use hot melted butter when making hollandaise for best emulsification and smooth texture
Keep assembled components warm while cooking eggs to ensure everything stays at proper serving temperature
Spray ramekins thoroughly with cooking spray to prevent eggs from sticking
Good to Know
Best served immediately; hollandaise can be kept warm for 1 hour maximum
Hollandaise can be made 1 hour ahead and kept warm in double boiler
Serve immediately while eggs are warm and hollandaise is creamy
Common Mistakes
Add butter too quickly to avoid breaking hollandaise sauce
Don't overcook eggs to maintain runny yolks
Keep components warm to prevent temperature contrast
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
high
General Alternatives
similar flavor profile
FAQ
Can I make hollandaise ahead of time?
Yes, hollandaise can be made up to 1 hour ahead and kept warm in a double boiler, whisking occasionally to maintain smooth texture.
What if my hollandaise breaks or curdles?
Try whisking in 1 tablespoon of hot water or starting over with fresh egg yolk and slowly whisking in the broken sauce.
Can I use regular ham instead of Canadian bacon?
Yes, regular ham slices work well as a substitute, though Canadian bacon provides the traditional flavor and texture for eggs Benedict.