why make this recipe
Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a fantastic dish for busy mornings. It is easy to prepare the night before, so you can simply bake it when you are ready to eat. This casserole is perfect for family gatherings, brunch with friends, or even just a simple family breakfast. Plus, it is versatile and can be customized based on your favorite flavors and ingredients.
how to make Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients:
- 6 cups berries (about 32 oz, any combination of berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
- 1 lb thick bread (such as challah, brioche, or whole grain bread, cut into cubes)
- 1 ⅓ cups applesauce (or mashed banana as an alternative)
- ⅔ cup milk (any milk of your choice, dairy or plant-based)
- ⅔ cup egg whites (or substitute with additional milk if preferred)
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup (or agave syrup or honey as alternatives)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional)
Directions:
Prepare the Bread: Cut the thick bread into cubes and layer it evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the applesauce (or mashed banana), milk, egg whites, maple syrup (or your choice of sweetener), and vanilla extract (if using).
Assemble the Casserole: Pour the wet mixture over the cubed bread, making sure all the pieces are coated. Sprinkle the berries evenly over the top of the bread mixture.
Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the casserole with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it overnight (or for at least 4 hours). This allows the bread to soak up the liquid and the flavors to meld together.
Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) the next morning. Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before baking. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is golden and the center is set.
Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm, perhaps with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
how to serve Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Serve the Overnight Breakfast Casserole warm. It can be enjoyed on its own or topped with a drizzle of maple syrup, yogurt, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Fresh mint leaves can also add a nice touch for presentation.
how to store Overnight Breakfast Casserole
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, cut a portion and warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through.
tips to make Overnight Breakfast Casserole
- Use stale bread for better texture; it holds the mixture better.
- Feel free to mix in nuts or seeds for added crunch.
- Experiment with different types of berries or fruits based on your preference.
variation
You can easily customize this recipe. Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor, or use different fruits like peaches or apples. For a richer taste, you can replace some milk with cream.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen berries?
Yes, you can use frozen berries, but make sure to slightly thaw them before adding to the casserole.
2. Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free bread in your recipe.
3. How long should I bake it if I don’t refrigerate overnight?
If you don’t let it sit overnight, bake it for a shorter time, about 30-40 minutes, and check for doneness.
Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups berries (any combination like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
- 1 lb thick bread (such as challah, brioche, or whole grain bread, cut into cubes)
- 1 ⅓ cups applesauce (or mashed banana as an alternative)
- ⅔ cup milk (any type, dairy or plant-based)
- ⅔ cup egg whites (or substitute with additional milk if preferred)
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup (or agave syrup or honey as alternatives)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional) Optional for added flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the thick bread into cubes and layer it evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the applesauce (or mashed banana), milk, egg whites, maple syrup (or your choice of sweetener), and vanilla extract (if using).
- Pour the wet mixture over the cubed bread, making sure all the pieces are coated. Sprinkle the berries evenly over the top of the bread mixture.
Chilling
- Cover the casserole with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it overnight (or for at least 4 hours).
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) the next morning.
- Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before baking.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is golden and the center is set.
Serving
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm, perhaps with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.