This sweet breakfast casserole is a warm hug on a plate! It’s filled with fluffy bread, eggs, and your choice of sweet goodies like berries or chocolate chips.
Perfect for brunch or lazy mornings, this dish can feed a crowd. I love to top it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or some whipped cream for an extra treat! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: These are key for the custard base. You can use egg substitutes like flaxseed meal or commercial egg replacers for a vegan option.
Whole Milk: For a richer taste, use whole milk. Almond or oat milk can be used for a dairy-free choice. If you want a creamier texture, half-and-half is a great substitution!
Cubed Bread: Day-old bread works best as it holds the mixture well. Brioche or French bread is my favorite choice, but you can use challah or any sturdy bread. Gluten-free bread is a great alternative too!
Fresh Strawberries: If strawberries aren’t in season, try using frozen berries or even bananas for a different flavor. Apples or blueberries would also work well!
Caramel Sauce: You can substitute homemade caramel or even maple syrup if you’re looking for a different sweetness. Honey can also work if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Get a Creamy and Set Casserole?
Cooking your casserole just right is key to that perfect dish! To ensure it sets and stays creamy rather than dry, follow these simple steps:
- Mix the egg and milk thoroughly. You want every bite to taste delicious.
- Let the bread soak properly—at least 10 minutes. This step is crucial for absorption!
- Don’t rush the baking process. If it’s not golden brown and firm, give it a bit more time in the oven.
- Let it rest once it’s out of the oven. This helps it firm up as it cools, making for cleaner slices.
Make sure to keep an eye on the color though—you want golden, not burnt!
Sweet Breakfast Casserole with Strawberries and Caramel
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread (such as brioche or French bread)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, halved
- 1 cup caramel sauce or dulce de leche
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella or mild white cheese (optional for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for greasing)
- Fresh thyme or mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional 45 to 55 minutes of baking time. After baking, let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Altogether, you’re looking at around 70 minutes until you can enjoy a warm slice!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with the melted butter. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking!
2. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, crack in the eggs and whisk them together. Then, add the whole milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix it all until it’s smooth and combined nicely.
3. Soak the Bread:
Now, take the cubed bread and add it to your egg mixture. Gently press down on the bread so it gets coated well. Let the mixture soak for about 10 minutes. This step helps the bread soak up all the yummy custard flavor!
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour half of the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Next, scatter half of the halved strawberries over the top, and drizzle with half of the caramel sauce. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle half of that on as well!
5. Layer Again:
Now, repeat the layering with the remaining bread mixture, strawberries, caramel, and cheese. Make sure to layer gently so everything stays nicely combined.
6. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. It’s done when the custard is set and the top is golden brown with caramel bubbling around the edges. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 to 10 minutes. This helps it set up just a little more. If you’d like, garnish with fresh thyme or mint leaves for a lovely touch.
8. Enjoy!
Serve this sweet breakfast casserole warm as it is, or add a drizzle of caramel sauce, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream. Enjoy every delicious bite of your sweet, custardy creation!
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Casserole?
Absolutely! While strawberries provide a lovely sweetness, you can substitute them with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or diced apples. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to match your preference!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes! This casserole is perfect for make-ahead meals. Simply prepare it up to the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove it from the fridge while the oven preheats, then bake as instructed.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual slices in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?
Yes! You can freeze the cooked casserole for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. You can also bake it from frozen, just add extra time in the oven.
