This sandwich bread cake is a baked dish made by layering soaked bread with mortadella and Edam cheese. The bread absorbs a mixture of eggs and milk, giving it a soft texture while the cheese melts through the layers. It works well as a quick main meal, a filling side dish, or something to serve when you need an easy option that can feed several people.
What is Sandwich Bread Cake?
Sandwich bread cake sits somewhere between a baked casserole and a savory layered loaf. The concept itself isn’t tied to one specific country. Variations appear across home kitchens where leftover bread meets cheese and cured meats. Mortadella, with its smooth texture and gentle seasoning, pairs particularly well with Edam, which melts into soft, creamy layers.
Pro Tips for the Best Sandwich Bread Cake
- Don’t oversoak the bread, and a quick dip is all you need. Too much soaking and the layers can lose structure and turn overly dense.
- Day-old bread holds its shape better and absorbs the mixture more evenly without falling apart.
- Keep the mortadella and cheese distributed across each layer so every slice has a balanced bite.
- Edam melts smoothly, but you can mix in other mild cheeses for extra depth without overwhelming the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of bread?
White sandwich bread works best for a soft texture, but whole wheat or seeded bread can add more character. Just keep in mind that denser bread may absorb more liquid, so adjust your dipping time accordingly.
What can I substitute for mortadella?
If mortadella isn’t available, cooked ham or turkey slices can step in. The goal is to maintain layers that complement the cheese.
Why is my bread cake too soggy?
This usually happens when the bread is soaked for too long or the liquid ratio is too high. A quick dip and even layering help prevent excess moisture.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The top should be golden and slightly crisp, while the inside should feel set when gently pressed. If it looks pale, give it a few more minutes.
Can I freeze it after baking?
Yes, but slice it first before freezing for easier reheating. Wrap portions tightly and reheat in the oven to bring back the texture.
How to Store Leftovers
Allow the bread cake to cool completely before storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the oven rather than the microwave to maintain texture and regain a bit of its crispness while warming the layers evenly.
Ingredients
How to Make Sandwich Bread Cake
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In a large bowl, mix eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt.
In a large bowl, mix eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt.
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Take each slice of bread and quickly dip it into the mixture. Make sure both sides are lightly coated, but avoid leaving them in too long.
Take each slice of bread and quickly dip it into the mixture. Make sure both sides are lightly coated, but avoid leaving them in too long.
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Place the soaked bread slices into your baking dish to form the first layer. Layer mortadella evenly over the bread, followed by a layer of Edam cheese.
Place the soaked bread slices into your baking dish to form the first layer. Layer mortadella evenly over the bread, followed by a layer of Edam cheese.
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Repeat the process several times, finishing with a final layer of soaked bread on top.
Repeat the process several times, finishing with a final layer of soaked bread on top.
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Sprinkle breadcrumbs generously over the surface. Add small cubes of butter across the top to help it brown and develop texture.
Sprinkle breadcrumbs generously over the surface. Add small cubes of butter across the top to help it brown and develop texture.
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Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for 20 minutes.
Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for 20 minutes.
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Let it sit for a few minutes after removing from the oven. Slice into portions and serve warm for the best experience.
Let it sit for a few minutes after removing from the oven. Slice into portions and serve warm for the best experience.
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