Overnight Breakfast Casserole Bake (Print Version)

An easy, make-ahead breakfast layered with berries, bread, and a lightly sweet custard.

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 6 cups mixed berries (32 oz)
02 - 1 lb thick bread
03 - 1 1/3 cups applesauce or mashed banana
04 - 2/3 cup milk of choice
05 - 2/3 cup egg whites or additional milk of choice
06 - 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, agave, or honey
07 - 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional)

# Directions:

01 - If the bread is not already slightly hard, let it sit uncovered for a day or bake the slices at 300°F (150°C) for 15 minutes to dry them out.
02 - Grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) pan. Cut the bread into approximately 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces and layer them evenly in the pan. Whisk together the applesauce, milk, egg whites, maple syrup, and vanilla (if not using vanilla-flavored milk). Pour the mixture evenly over the bread. Spread the berries over the top.
03 - Cover the pan and refrigerate overnight to allow the ingredients to soak.
04 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pan on the center rack and bake for 1 hour or until the bread is lightly golden.
05 - Serve the casserole hot or cold as desired.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure the bread is slightly hard before assembling to prevent a soggy texture.