Overnight Breakfast Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This overnight breakfast casserole is the ideal combination of convenience and nutrition. You prepare it the night before, so in the morning, all you have to do is pop it in the oven. The soft bread and juicy berries create a comforting base, while the applesauce or mashed banana adds natural sweetness. The dish is flexible, allowing for various substitutions, making it a go-to breakfast for all tastes and dietary needs. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover bread!

Ingredients

• 6 cups berries (32 oz)

• 1 lb thick bread

• 1 1/3 cup applesauce or mashed banana

• 2/3 cup milk of choice

• 2/3 cup egg whites or additional milk of choice

• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or agave or honey

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. If the bread is not already slightly hard, let it sit uncovered for a day or bake the slices at 300°F for 15 minutes to dry it out.

2. Grease a 9×13-inch pan. Cut the bread into approximately 1-inch pieces and layer them evenly in the pan.

3. In a bowl, whisk together the applesauce, milk, egg whites (or additional milk), maple syrup, and vanilla extract (if using). Pour this mixture evenly over the bread.

4. Spread the berries over the top.

5. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

6. The next morning, preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the pan on the center rack and bake for 1 hour, or until the bread is lightly golden.

7. Enjoy the casserole hot or cold!

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 8-12 servings

• Cook time: 1 hour

• Total time: 1 hour (plus overnight refrigeration)

Variations

• Fruit Options: Swap the berries for other fruits like sliced bananas, diced apples, or peaches.

• Non-Dairy Option: Use a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk, and substitute the egg whites with a flax egg or additional non-dairy milk.

• Sweeteners: Use your preferred sweetener such as stevia, coconut sugar, or agave instead of maple syrup.

• Bread: Experiment with different types of bread such as whole wheat, sourdough, or gluten-free bread for a variation in flavor and texture.

• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 30-45 seconds, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, this casserole is perfect for making the night before. Simply refrigerate overnight and bake it the next morning.

Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen berries will work just as well. Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! You can use any bread you prefer, whether it’s whole grain, gluten-free, or sourdough.

How do I make this casserole dairy-free?

You can easily make this casserole dairy-free by using non-dairy milk such as almond or oat milk, and by replacing the egg whites with a flax egg or more milk.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Just slice the casserole into individual portions, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

It can be! Just use gluten-free bread to make this casserole gluten-free.

Can I add protein to this casserole?

Yes! You can add protein powder to the wet mixture or top the casserole with nuts or seeds for extra protein.

How can I make this casserole sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter casserole, you can add more maple syrup or use a sweetened milk alternative.

Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe and bake it in a larger pan. Just increase the baking time by a few minutes.

Can I make this casserole with eggs instead of egg whites?

Yes, you can substitute whole eggs for egg whites if you prefer. You can use 1 egg for every 2 egg whites.

Conclusion

This overnight breakfast casserole is a perfect, hassle-free dish for busy mornings. With minimal preparation and a variety of ways to customize it to your taste, it’s a nutritious, comforting breakfast that everyone will love. Prepare it the night before and wake up to a delicious and healthy meal!