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This easy overnight breakfast casserole lets you prep a healthy and vibrant breakfast the night before so you can relax in the morning. With juicy berries and lightly sweet baked bread, it is both simple and comforting for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.
I made this on a whim for a family gathering and could not believe how quickly it disappeared. Now it is my go to whenever I need a nourishing breakfast everyone will love.
Ingredients
- Berries (fresh or frozen): Any combination works and they give the casserole its juicy sweetness Look for berries that are brightly colored and firm
- Thick bread (like sourdough or French bread): Helps absorb the custard and holds up well Choose a loaf that feels firm and sturdy
- Applesauce or mashed banana: Adds moisture and natural sweetness Make sure to use unsweetened applesauce or ripe bananas
- Milk of choice: Any non dairy or regular milk works Use unsweetened to control the flavor
- Egg whites or more milk: Helps bind the casserole while keeping it light Opt for organic egg whites or use extra milk if you prefer vegan
- Pure maple syrup or agave or honey: These bring just the right amount of sweetness Go for real maple syrup when possible for the best taste
- Pure vanilla extract (optional): But it enhances the flavor Choose pure extract over imitation for a deeper flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the bread:
- Cut the bread into one inch cubes If it is not slightly hard let the pieces sit out uncovered for a day or bake them at three hundred degrees Fahrenheit for fifteen minutes until dry This helps soak up all the flavors
- Mix the custard:
- In a large bowl whisk together applesauce milk egg whites maple syrup and vanilla If using vanilla flavored milk you can skip the extra vanilla
- Assemble the casserole:
- Grease a nine by thirteen inch pan Layer the cubed bread evenly across the bottom Pour the custard mixture over the bread so it all gets soaked Top evenly with the berries to create a colorful layer
- Chill overnight:
- Cover the pan and place it in the refrigerator Letting it sit overnight allows the bread to absorb the custard and the flavors to blend
- Bake and serve:
- Preheat the oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit in the morning Bake the casserole uncovered for one hour or until golden on top Serve hot or cold straight from the pan
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Berries are my favorite part of this breakfast They turn irresistibly jammy in the oven and make every bite colorful and bright. This casserole was the star at my last holiday brunch and even the pickiest eaters went for seconds.
Storage Tips
Once baked this breakfast casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Seal it tightly so it does not dry out. For longer storage slice portions and freeze them individually. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through then add a splash of milk if needed to freshen it up.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have applesauce mashed banana works beautifully and adds a subtle banana flavor. Any sturdy bread is acceptable including gluten free or whole wheat. Feel free to swap the berries for chopped apples peaches or even cherries depending on the season and what you have on hand. For a vegan version use plant based milk and skip the egg whites.
Serving Suggestions
Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of extra maple syrup for a brunch treat. Add toasted nuts or granola for crunch. This casserole pairs wonderfully with hot coffee or tea and a side of scrambled eggs if you want extra protein.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen berries work well. No need to thaw them before layering; just add them straight to the pan.
- → What type of bread is best?
Day-old, rustic or whole-grain loaves offer the best texture. Softer breads may result in a mushier dish.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use your preferred non-dairy milk and additional applesauce or a milk alternative for the egg whites.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be refrigerated in an airtight container and enjoyed within 2-3 days, either cold or reheated.
- → Is there a way to reduce the sugar?
You can substitute maple syrup with a sugar-free sweetener or simply use less to suit your taste.
- → Can this be assembled two days in advance?
It’s best prepared the night before, but you can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance for optimal freshness and texture.