This Sweet Breakfast Casserole is a warm hug on a plate! It’s made with fluffy bread, eggs, milk, and sweet spices, making it a delightful start to your day.
Every bite feels like breakfast and dessert in one! I love making this when friends visit—it’s easy to prepare and smells amazing while baking. Trust me, seconds will be requested! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: These provide the structure and protein for the casserole. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) or silken tofu blended until smooth.
Bread: Brioche or challah are perfect for this recipe due to their softness and slight sweetness. You can substitute with any bread, like white, whole wheat, or even croissants for a flakier texture.
Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy texture, but you can use any milk you prefer, like almond milk or oat milk to keep it dairy-free. Just make sure it’s unsweetened if you want to control the sugar.
Nuts: Pecans or almonds add crunch and flavor. They can be swapped with walnuts, or you can leave them out altogether for a nut-free option completely.
Jam or Fruit Preserves: Raspberry or strawberry jam gives great flavor; however, feel free to use your favorite fruit preserve or even fresh fruit like blueberries or sliced bananas instead.
How Can I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Set?
Getting that ideal texture in your breakfast casserole is all about timing and temperature. Here are some tips to help you achieve a deliciously set and fluffy result:
- Let the bread soak in the egg mixture for at least 10 minutes. This helps it absorb moisture and flavors.
- Be careful not to overbake! Check the casserole after about 40 minutes. It’s done when the center is firm but still slightly jiggly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set up a bit more and makes it easier to cut into squares.
- If you’re using a different dish or doubling the recipe, the baking time may vary, so keep an eye on it!
Sweet Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 cups cubed brioche or challah bread
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup pecans or almonds, roughly chopped (plus extra whole nuts for garnish)
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup jam or fruit preserves (raspberry or strawberry works well)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (for topping)
- Maple syrup, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Sweet Breakfast Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-50 minutes to bake, making it a total of about 1 hour to get this delicious dish ready to serve. It’s an easy make-ahead option for special brunches or holiday gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch square baking dish. This will help prevent sticking and make for easy serving later.
2. Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and granulated sugar until everything is well combined and smooth. This mixture will create a creamy base for your casserole.
3. Soak the Bread:
Place the cubed brioche or challah bread into the prepared baking dish. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, using your hands or a spatula to press down gently to help the bread soak up the liquid. Let it sit for about 10 minutes so the bread absorbs all those yummy flavors.
4. Mix the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and chopped nuts together. This will form a sweet and crunchy topping for your casserole!
5. Assemble the Casserole:
After the bread has soaked, sprinkle the brown sugar and nut mixture evenly over the soaked bread in the casserole dish. Then, add spoonfuls of your favorite jam or fruit preserves over the top for a fruity kick. If you’re using shredded coconut, sprinkle that over as well!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes of baking to ensure it doesn’t overbake.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Top with fresh sliced strawberries and a sprinkle of whole nuts for a beautiful finish. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup on top for that extra sweetness!
Enjoy this cozy, sweet start to your day! It’s perfect for any occasion or just a lovely weekend treat.
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While brioche and challah are preferred for their sweetness and texture, you can substitute with any bread you have on hand, such as white bread, whole wheat, or even croissants for a flakier option.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before! Just follow the steps up to letting it soak, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it in the morning as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it comes straight from the fridge.
What Can I Use Instead of Milk?
If you need a dairy-free option, you can substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other milk alternative. Just make sure they are unsweetened to keep the flavor balanced!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it up in the oven at a low temperature. You can drizzle a little maple syrup on top to freshen it up!
