Overnight Breakfast Casserole – A Make-Ahead Morning Favorite Bursting with Berries

Mornings can be hectic, but breakfast doesn’t have to suffer for it. This Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a game-changer for anyone who wants to start the day with something delicious, comforting, and nourishing—without standing over the stove at dawn. With juicy berries, wholesome bread, and a naturally sweet custard base made from applesauce and maple syrup, this dish is both simple and stunning.

Whether you’re feeding a brunch crowd, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a kid-approved, make-ahead breakfast, this casserole will make your mornings easier—and tastier.

Why This Recipe Works for Everyone

This is a breakfast recipe made for real life. It’s:

• Make-ahead and effortless – Just prep it the night before and bake in the morning.

• Naturally sweetened – Made with fruit, applesauce, and maple syrup.

• Wholesome and flexible – No refined sugar, can be dairy-free, egg-free, and vegan.

• Perfect for any occasion – Great for holiday brunches, meal prep, or lazy weekends.

• Kid and adult friendly – Sweet, fruity, and soft, like a berry bread pudding.

If you want to impress overnight guests or enjoy a cozy, no-fuss breakfast at home, this is the recipe to try.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You likely already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen. Here’s what goes into this fruity, custard-soaked casserole:

• 6 cups berries (32 oz) – Use fresh or frozen blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, or a mix.

• 1 lb thick bread – Day-old or crusty bread like sourdough, French, brioche, or challah.

• 1 1/3 cup applesauce or mashed banana – Adds moisture, sweetness, and acts as a binder.

• 2/3 cup milk of choice – Dairy or any plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy.

• 2/3 cup egg whites or more milk – Adds protein and structure. Sub more milk for egg-free.

• 1/4 cup maple syrup, agave, or honey – Choose your favorite natural sweetener.

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional) – Skip if using flavored milk.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require specialty gadgets:

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Mixing bowls

• Whisk

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Bread knife and cutting board

• Plastic wrap or foil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Bread

If your bread is fresh and soft, dry it out first. You can either leave it uncovered overnight or bake the slices at 300°F for 15 minutes until lightly crisped. This prevents soggy casserole.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

Grease your 9×13-inch pan. Cut the dried bread into 1-inch cubes and layer them evenly across the dish.

Step 3: Make the Custard

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the applesauce (or mashed banana), milk, egg whites (or additional milk), maple syrup, and vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to gently press the bread so it soaks up the liquid.

Step 5: Add the Berries

Spread your fresh or frozen berries evenly over the top. The juices will seep into the bread as it bakes.

Step 6: Chill Overnight

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the flavors and ensures a custardy, cohesive bake.

Step 7: Bake and Enjoy

The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the wrap and bake the casserole on the center rack for 1 hour, or until the top is golden and the center is set.

Serve warm or cold with optional toppings like yogurt, nut butter, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Tips and Variations

Make It Vegan

• Replace egg whites with additional plant-based milk or a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).

• Use dairy-free milk like almond, oat, or soy.

• Choose maple syrup or agave instead of honey.

Bread Choices

• For a soft pudding-like texture, use brioche or challah.

• For something rustic, go for crusty sourdough or whole grain bread.

• Avoid sandwich bread—it’s too thin and soft.

Berry Options

• Use any berry combo you love.

• Frozen berries are great—no need to thaw them first.

• Add chopped apples or peaches for seasonal variation.

Add-Ins

• Chopped nuts for crunch

• Chocolate chips for a sweeter twist

• Lemon or orange zest for brightness

• A dash of cinnamon or cardamom for spice

Shortcut

Short on time? You can make and bake this same day. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes instead of overnight. It won’t be quite as custardy, but it’ll still taste great.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Refrigerate:

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freeze:

Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheat:

Warm individual slices in the microwave for 30–60 seconds or bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes until heated through.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Topping Ideas:

• A dollop of Greek yogurt or coconut cream

• A drizzle of nut butter or maple syrup

• A sprinkle of granola for texture

Drink Pairings:

• Hot coffee or a vanilla latte

• Fresh-pressed orange juice

• Herbal tea like rooibos, chamomile, or mint

Meal Ideas:

• Serve with scrambled eggs or tofu for a savory contrast

• Pair with a smoothie for a complete breakfast

This casserole makes a beautiful brunch centerpiece. Add a green salad and mimosa, and you’ve got a show-stopping spread.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free bread that holds up to soaking, such as Udi’s or Canyon Bakehouse.

Can I bake it right away instead of refrigerating overnight?

You can, but the texture will be more bread-pudding-like if it sits overnight. If baking right away, let it soak for at least 30 minutes before baking.

What’s the best type of bread for this?

A sturdy, slightly stale bread like brioche, sourdough, or crusty white bread works best. Avoid sandwich or soft loaves.

Do I have to use applesauce?

No. You can substitute with mashed bananas, pumpkin purée, or even sweet potato purée for a fall version.

Can I make this sugar-free?

Yes. Omit the maple syrup and sweeten with a sugar-free substitute like monk fruit or stevia. You can also rely on the natural sweetness of fruit alone.

Is this kid-friendly?

Absolutely. It’s soft, sweet, and packed with berries—what’s not to love? Plus, it’s easy to customize for picky eaters.

Final Thoughts

The Overnight Breakfast Casserole is the kind of recipe that makes mornings feel a little less rushed and a lot more special. It’s warm, satisfying, and brimming with berry goodness—all while being simple and fuss-free.

If you’re ready to upgrade your breakfast game with something that’s both nutritious and nostalgic, this casserole is it. Prep it in minutes, sleep easy, and wake up to a breakfast that practically makes itself.