Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing breakfast that’s brimming with juicy berries, pillowy bread, and just the right touch of sweetness, look no further than this Overnight Breakfast Casserole. It’s the answer to those cozy mornings when you crave something homemade but don’t want to fuss around the kitchen before your first cup of coffee. Prepare everything the night before, pop it in the fridge, and wake up to a breakfast that feels special—comforting, colorful, and bursting with flavor in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things delightfully simple—each ingredient is carefully chosen to add fabulous flavor, texture, or color. The combination of pantry staples and fresh fruit transforms into something magical by morning!

• Berries (6 cups or 32 oz): Choose your favorites—blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, or a mix. The berries turn jammy in the oven, adding sweet-tart pops to every bite.
• Thick bread (1 lb): Day-old bread works best for a sturdy, custardy base that holds up after soaking overnight.
• Applesauce or mashed banana (1 1/3 cup): Gives the casserole natural moisture and subtle sweetness while keeping things light.
• Milk of choice (2/3 cup): Use any milk you love—dairy or plant-based—to make the custard creamy and rich.
• Egg whites, or extra milk (2/3 cup): Egg whites boost protein and help the casserole set, but extra milk works perfectly for a vegan option.
• Pure maple syrup, agave, or honey (1/4 cup): Just enough to sweeten the dish, balancing out the tart berries.
• Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp, optional): For a fragrant aroma and that classic breakfast casserole warmth—it’s delicious but not a must if you use vanilla-flavored milk.

How to Make Overnight Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Bread

If your bread is fresh and soft, let it sit uncovered for a day to get slightly stale, or pop the slices in the oven at 300 F for 15 minutes to dry them out. This step guarantees the bread soaks up all the delicious custard without getting mushy.

Step 2: Layer the Bread

Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and cut your bread into hearty 1-inch pieces. Tumble the cubes evenly into your prepared pan, making sure the surface is well covered for the best texture.

Step 3: Whisk the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the applesauce (or mashed banana), milk of choice, egg whites (or more milk), maple syrup, and vanilla extract if using. Blend until smooth and creamy, as this mixture will coat and soak into each bread cube.

Step 4: Assemble and Add the Fruit

Pour the custard mixture slowly and evenly over the bread cubes, making sure every nook and cranny gets some love. Then scatter the berries generously across the top for a beautiful, jewel-toned finish.

Step 5: Let It Rest Overnight

Cover the pan tightly and place it in the refrigerator. The bread will soak up all the flavors and moisture while you’re dreaming away. This step makes an irresistibly tender and flavorful Overnight Breakfast Casserole.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

In the morning, preheat your oven to 350 F and remove the pan from the fridge. Bake for about 1 hour, or until the top is lightly golden and the kitchen smells amazing. Serve hot for ultimate coziness, or cold for a refreshing treat.

How to Serve Overnight Breakfast Casserole

Garnishes

A final flourish can take your Overnight Breakfast Casserole from delicious to absolutely swoon-worthy. Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with extra maple syrup, or add a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream. Fresh mint leaves also add a lovely, vibrant touch.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with savory sides like crispy bacon or breakfast sausage, but it’s just as lovely with a bowl of fruit salad or a fresh green smoothie on the side. If you’re hosting brunch, serve with hot coffee and fresh-squeezed juice for a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking your Overnight Breakfast Casserole in individual ramekins for a charming brunch presentation, or cut into squares and serve on a platter with small forks for a buffet. For festive mornings, add a sprinkle of colored sugar or edible flowers for a pop of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though it’s rare!), store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors only deepen, and it tastes just as wonderful reheated or even enjoyed cold straight from the fridge.

Freezing

You can freeze baked slices by wrapping them well and storing in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or gently reheat straight from the freezer for a convenient breakfast any day.

Reheating

To rewarm, simply place individual portions in the microwave for a minute or two, or reheat covered in a 325 F oven until warmed through. Add a splash of milk before reheating if the casserole seems a little dry.

FAQs

Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen berries work beautifully in Overnight Breakfast Casserole—just add them straight from the freezer. No need to thaw; they’ll bake up perfectly juicy and flavorful.

Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes—just substitute your favorite gluten-free bread. The recipe works well with most sturdy, bakery-style gluten-free loaves; just be sure the bread isn’t too soft so it holds up during soaking.

Can I prepare Overnight Breakfast Casserole more than one night ahead?

If you want to get extra organized, you can assemble everything up to 36 hours in advance. The longer soak deepens the flavors, but after 2 days the bread may become too soft, so plan accordingly.

What can I use instead of egg whites?

If you prefer not to use eggs, simply add extra milk in equal quantity, or use a vegan egg replacer according to package instructions. The casserole will still bake up deliciously moist and tender.

Is it possible to reduce the sugar content?

Of course! Feel free to cut back on the maple syrup or use a sugar-free alternative. The natural sweetness of applesauce, banana, and berries will still shine through.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to wake up to the excitement of Overnight Breakfast Casserole. Whether you’re planning a lazy weekend brunch or need a nourishing head-start to your weekday, this recipe delivers comfort, convenience, and pure berry bliss in every slice. Give it a try—your mornings will thank you!

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