Description
This overnight breakfast casserole is a delicious and effortless way to start your morning! Made with hearty thick bread, juicy berries, and a naturally sweetened custard, this casserole softens overnight in the fridge and bakes to perfection in the morning. Perfect for brunch, holidays, or meal prep! Serve it warm or chilled, with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt for an extra treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 1 lb thick bread (slightly dried out)
- 6 cups fresh or frozen berries (32 oz)
Custard Mixture
- 1 1/3 cup applesauce or mashed banana
- 2/3 cup milk of choice
- 2/3 cup egg whites (or additional milk of choice for a vegan option)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, agave, or honey
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Bread
- If the bread is not slightly stale, let it sit uncovered for a day or bake it at 300°F for 15 minutes until dry.
- 2. Assemble the Casserole
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cut the bread into 1-inch pieces and spread evenly in the dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the applesauce, milk, egg whites, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Sprinkle the berries evenly over the top.
- 3. Refrigerate Overnight
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight (at least 8 hours).
- 4. Bake the Casserole
- The next morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the casserole from the fridge and bake for 1 hour, or until the bread is golden brown and the center is set.
- 5. Serve & Enjoy
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm or chilled.
- Enjoy as is, or drizzle with maple syrup, yogurt, or a sprinkle of cinnamon!
Notes
- Bread Choice: Brioche, challah, sourdough, or French bread work best.
- Vegan Option: Use non-dairy milk and replace eggs with extra milk.
- Make Ahead: Can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes or microwave individual portions.
- Serving Suggestion: Top with Greek yogurt, nut butter, or extra fresh berries for a protein-packed meal!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 210kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg