This sweet breakfast casserole is a warm and cozy treat! Made with fluffy bread, eggs, and your favorite fruits like berries or bananas, it’s perfect for special mornings.
I love serving it on weekends when I want to impress family or friends without much fuss. Just pop it in the oven and enjoy the delicious smells while it bakes! 🍓🥞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are essential as they provide structure and richness. If you need a substitute, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan option.
Milk: Whole milk gives the casserole a creamy texture. For a lighter option, you can use 2% milk or unsweetened almond milk, just keep in mind it might slightly change the flavor.
Bread: Day-old bread is perfect for this recipe because it soaks up the egg mixture better. Brioche gives a sweet flavor, but you can also use any white bread, challah, or even whole wheat for more fiber.
Fruits: Orange segments add a refreshing citrus kick. You can swap them with other fruits like apples, berries, or even bananas, depending on your taste preference and what you have on hand.
Nuts: Chopped almonds or pecans add crunch. If allergies are a concern, feel free to skip them or use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure a Custardy Texture?
Achieving a creamy, custard-like texture is all about soaking the bread adequately in the egg mixture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure bread is cubed in even sizes for consistent soaking.
- After mixing in the egg mixture, let it sit for at least 10 minutes. This allows the bread to absorb the liquid fully.
- If time allows, you can refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes or even overnight for deeper flavors.
Cooking it just until set and slightly golden will help maintain that lovely texture – nobody likes a dry casserole!
Sweet Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups bread cubes (day-old, any white or brioche bread)
- 1 cup orange segments (peeled and chopped)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds or pecans)
- 1/3 cup dried fruit (such as dates or raisins), chopped
For The Topping:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar or maple syrup (for drizzle)
- Fresh strawberries for garnish
For Greasing:
- Butter or non-stick spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This sweet breakfast casserole takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and 40-45 minutes to bake. Total time from start to table is around 1 hour. Perfect for a relaxing weekend breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Oven and Dish:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab a 9×9-inch baking dish and grease it well with butter or some non-stick spray. This will help your casserole come out beautifully.
2. Mixing the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is mixed well and there are no lumps. This combo will be the custard for your casserole.
3. Soaking the Bread:
Next, toss the bread cubes into the bowl with your egg mixture. Gently stir to coat all the bread pieces, then let it sit for about 10 minutes. This soaking allows the bread to soak up that delicious custard.
4. Adding Fruits and Nuts:
After soaking, it’s time to fold in the orange segments, chopped nuts, and dried fruit. Mix it gently to distribute everything evenly through the bread. This adds flavor and texture to your casserole!
5. Baking the Casserole:
Pour your mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Now for a little extra crunch and sweetness, sprinkle some more chopped nuts and a bit of dried fruit over the top.
6. Sweeten It Up:
Drizzle the brown sugar or maple syrup over the top. This will create a lovely caramelized layer as it bakes giving you that sweet, sweet goodness!
7. Time to Bake!
Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s set in the middle and golden brown on top.
8. Cooling and Serving:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, garnish with fresh strawberries on top for a pretty finish. It’s best enjoyed warm and can be paired with your favorite coffee or tea!
Enjoy your delicious Sweet Breakfast Casserole, brimming with fruity flavors and a sweet, custardy texture! It’s sure to delight both family and friends. Happy cooking! 🍽️
Can I Use a Different Type of Bread?
Absolutely! While brioche or white bread works best for a soft texture, you can substitute with rustic bread, challah, or even whole wheat bread for a healthier option. Just be sure it’s day-old to achieve the right soakiness.
What Can I Use Instead of Whole Milk?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free alternative, you can use 2% milk or unsweetened almond milk. Both will work fine, though the flavor and creaminess might change slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave for a quick 30 seconds to a minute, or heat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Can I Make This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step and cover it tightly. Refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be starting cold from the fridge.
