This Healthy Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a convenient and nutritious way to start your day. Perfect for busy mornings or hosting brunch, it combines wholesome ingredients into a delicious, make-ahead dish. Simply prepare the casserole the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning for a warm, comforting meal. With customizable options to suit various dietary preferences, this casserole is both versatile and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups mixed berries (such as blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, and sliced strawberries)
  
  

• 1 lb thick bread (e.g., brioche, French baguette, sourdough, or challah)
  
  

• 1⅓ cups applesauce or mashed banana
  
  

• ⅔ cup milk of choice (dairy or plant-based)
  
  

• ⅔ cup egg whites or additional milk
  
  

• ¼ cup pure maple syrup, agave, or honey
  
  

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional)
  
  

Directions:

1. Prepare the Bread: If the bread isn't slightly stale, either leave it uncovered for a day or bake the slices at 300°F (150°C) for 15 minutes to dry them out.
   
   

2. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Cut the bread into 1-inch pieces and layer them evenly in the pan.
   
   

3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large measuring cup, whisk together the applesauce (or mashed banana), milk, egg whites (or additional milk), maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
   
   

4. Combine and Refrigerate: Pour the wet mixture evenly over the bread. Spread the berries over the top. Cover the pan and refrigerate overnight.
   
   

5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Uncover the pan and bake for 1 hour or until the bread is lightly golden.
   
   

6. Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy hot or cold.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: Approximately 100 kcal
  
  

• Protein: 7 g
  
  

• Fat: 1 g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 20 g
  
  

• Fiber: 3 g
  
  

• Sugar: 10 g
  
  

• Sodium: 150 mg
  
  

• Cholesterol: 0 mg