Overnight Breakfast Casserole is the perfect dish for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty, healthy, and delicious breakfast with minimal effort. This casserole combines sweet berries, thick bread, and a rich mixture of applesauce, milk, and egg whites to create a comforting breakfast that can be prepared the night before. Simply assemble the ingredients, refrigerate overnight, and bake it in the morning for a warm, filling breakfast that the whole family will love.

Not only is this casserole incredibly easy to make, but it’s also a versatile dish. You can switch out the berries for any fruit you prefer or adjust the sweetness with maple syrup, agave, or honey. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, need a quick breakfast for a busy morning, or want to treat your loved ones to something special, this Overnight Breakfast Casserole will satisfy everyone’s appetite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Overnight Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate make-ahead breakfast, offering convenience and flavor in one dish. With fresh berries, soft bread, and a fluffy custard-like texture, it’s the perfect balance of sweet and comforting. It’s a great way to start your day, providing a nutritious and filling meal. Plus, the beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity—no need to wake up early to prepare breakfast; just assemble it the night before and pop it in the oven in the morning.

This dish is also customizable, allowing you to use whatever fruits or sweeteners you have on hand. Whether you prefer a classic berry combination or want to experiment with other fruits, this casserole adapts to your tastes and needs. It’s a versatile, wholesome meal that the whole family can enjoy!

Ingredients

Berries (mixed or of choice)
Thick bread (like challah, brioche, or a hearty whole wheat)
Applesauce or mashed banana
Milk (of choice)
Egg whites (or additional milk)
Pure maple syrup (or agave or honey)
Pure vanilla extract (optional)

Variations

Fruit Variations: You can swap out the berries for other fruits like sliced bananas, apples, or pears for a different flavor profile. Diced stone fruits like peaches or nectarines would also work wonderfully.
Non-Dairy Options: To make this dish dairy-free, simply use a plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy milk, and replace the egg whites with more milk or a plant-based egg substitute.
Sweetener Alternatives: If you prefer a different sweetener, honey, agave syrup, or coconut sugar can replace maple syrup. You can also adjust the sweetness level to your taste.
Add Protein: If you want to add more protein, consider mixing in some Greek yogurt or a scoop of protein powder into the batter.
Nuts and Seeds: For a crunchy twist, you can top the casserole with chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts before baking, or sprinkle chia seeds for added texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Cut the thick bread into cubes, about 1 to 1 1/2-inch pieces. Use day-old bread for a better texture that holds up well in the casserole.

Step 2: Layer the Casserole

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the bread cubes evenly. Then, layer the berries over the bread. You can use a combination of fresh or frozen berries, depending on your preference.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the applesauce (or mashed banana), milk, egg whites, maple syrup, and vanilla extract (if using). Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

Step 4: Pour the Mixture Over the Bread

Pour the wet mixture evenly over the bread and berries in the baking dish, making sure all the bread is coated. Use a spoon to press the bread down slightly, helping it soak up the liquid.

Step 5: Refrigerate Overnight

Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the liquid, creating a custard-like texture when baked.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

The next morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and bake it for about 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the middle.

Step 7: Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Stale Bread: If possible, use day-old or slightly stale bread. It absorbs the liquid better and doesn’t become soggy during baking.
Prep Ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before, making it an ideal option for busy mornings. Simply pop it in the oven the next day for a quick, hot breakfast.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the wet mixture before pouring it over the bread and adjust the sweetness level to your liking.
Make it Extra Creamy: For a richer casserole, you can use whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream to the wet ingredients.

How to Serve

This Overnight Breakfast Casserole is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with additional toppings like whipped cream, yogurt, or a drizzle of extra maple syrup. It pairs wonderfully with a side of crispy bacon, sausage, or fresh fruit for a complete breakfast or brunch spread. You can also sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar on top for a more decadent presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It makes for an easy breakfast throughout the week. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

Freezing

You can also freeze the casserole before baking it. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as usual.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular bread instead of thick bread?

Yes, you can use regular bread, but thicker, denser bread like brioche or challah holds up better in the casserole, absorbing the liquid without becoming too soggy.

2. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free bread. Just be sure to check the ingredients of your milk and syrup to ensure they are also gluten-free.

3. Can I use frozen berries?

Yes, you can use frozen berries. Just make sure they are thawed and drained before adding them to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.

4. Can I substitute the egg whites with something else?

If you want to avoid using egg whites, you can replace them with additional milk or a plant-based egg substitute for a dairy-free version.

5. How long does it take to bake the casserole?

The casserole typically takes 45-55 minutes to bake at 350°F (175°C). Check the casserole toward the end to ensure it is fully set and golden brown on top.

6. Can I add more fruit?

Yes, you can add more fruit, but be mindful of the liquid content. Too much fruit could make the casserole soggy, so try to keep the balance of wet and dry ingredients.

7. Can I use sugar instead of maple syrup?

Yes, you can use granulated sugar, agave, or honey instead of maple syrup. Adjust the sweetness level to your taste.

8. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply replace the milk with a plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free sweetener if desired.

9. Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for preparing the night before. Just assemble it and refrigerate overnight for an easy breakfast the next morning.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe if you need to serve a larger group. Just make sure to adjust the baking time if using a larger dish.

Conclusion

Overnight Breakfast Casserole is the perfect combination of convenience and flavor. With its rich custard-like texture and sweet berry filling, it’s an ideal breakfast or brunch dish that can be made ahead of time. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, a busy weekday, or a special occasion, this casserole will always be a hit. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, it’s a breakfast you can look forward to without any morning stress.