Description
This Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and easy breakfast option. Packed with fresh berries, wholesome bread, and a sweet and creamy filling, this casserole is perfect for a make-ahead meal. Just assemble it the night before, and bake it in the morning for a warm, comforting breakfast that’s sure to please everyone.
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)
Instructions
-
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.
Notes
- This casserole can be topped with additional berries or even a dollop of whipped cream for extra sweetness.
- For a richer version, you can substitute part of the milk with heavy cream.
- Feel free to use any fruit of your choice—apples, pears, or peaches would all work wonderfully.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Overnight breakfast casserole, make-ahead breakfast, berry casserole, easy breakfast casserole, baked French toast casserole