This sweet breakfast casserole is like a warm hug on a plate! It’s packed with fluffy bread, eggs, and a touch of cinnamon, making it perfect for lazy mornings.
It’s super easy to whip up, and the yummy smell will have everyone coming to the table! I love serving it with fresh fruit and a drizzle of maple syrup. Yum! 🍓🥞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Fresh large eggs give the casserole its structure. If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try using a flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg).
Milk: Whole milk adds richness, but you can swap it for almond milk or oat milk if you’re dairy-free. I find that heavy cream makes it extra decadent too!
Sugar: Granulated sugar is classic, but feel free to use brown sugar for a deeper flavor. If you want to cut sugar, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia.
Bread: Day-old bread absorbs the custard well. Options like challah or sourdough work beautifully. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a nice savory crunch. Turkey bacon or even crumbled sausage can be great alternatives for those looking for a lighter option.
Cream Cheese: If cream cheese isn’t your thing, ricotta or mascarpone can make a delicious substitute. They’re creamy and pair well with sweet flavors.
How Can I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Baked?
The key to a perfect baked casserole is to watch the cooking time closely! Here are some tips:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking. A hot oven helps with rising.
- Check for doneness at 45 minutes. The casserole should puff up and turn golden brown. If a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, it’s ready!
- Let it cool slightly before serving so the flavors set and it’s easier to cut into servings.
Personal note: I love serving it warm with fresh strawberries and a drizzle of maple syrup for that added sweetness!
How to Make Sweet Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Main Components:
- 6 cups day-old bread cubes (such as French bread or brioche)
- 6 strips cooked bacon, roughly chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, dolloped in small amounts
- 1/2 cup chopped roasted peanuts
For Topping:
- Fresh strawberries, halved or quartered (for topping)
- Butter, for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This sweet breakfast casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then around 45-50 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need about 1 hour to enjoy this delicious dish, plus a few minutes to cool before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, take a moment to grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 6 large eggs, 2 cups of whole milk, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Make sure everything is well combined for a smooth custard base.
3. Prepare the Bread:
Toss in the 6 cups of day-old bread cubes into the egg mixture. Press the bread down gently to soak it up. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes so that the bread absorbs all that yummy custard!
4. Add Bacon:
Now add in most of the chopped cooked bacon. Carefully mix it in, leaving some bacon aside for the topping later. This adds a nice savory touch to your casserole!
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the soaked bread mixture evenly into your greased baking dish. Make sure to spread it out so it bakes evenly. This is the heart of your casserole!
6. Add Cream Cheese:
Dot small spoonfuls of cream cheese over the top of the mixture. The cream cheese will add a rich and creamy layer that everyone will love.
7. Final Touches:
Sprinkle the reserved bacon pieces along with 1/2 cup of chopped roasted peanuts on top. This adds texture and flavor to your casserole.
8. Bake:
Pop your dish into the oven, uncovered, and let it bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s puffed up and golden brown on top, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. While it’s cooling, you can prepare your fresh strawberries for topping.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the casserole warm, with fresh strawberry slices on top and optional drizzles of maple syrup or honey on the side. Enjoy your sweet and savory breakfast casserole!
Bon appétit! 🌟
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Casserole?
Absolutely! You can use any type of bread you enjoy, like challah, sourdough, or even whole grain. Just ensure it’s day-old or slightly stale for the best absorption!
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the casserole the night before. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of baking, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it in the oven while you enjoy your coffee!
Can I Substitute the Bacon for Something Else?
Yes! If you’d prefer a vegetarian option, you can skip the bacon altogether or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added flavor. Turkey bacon or sausage are also great alternatives if you still want that savory taste!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or use the microwave for a quicker option.