Introduction
Imagine waking up to the delightful scent of a warm, hearty breakfast just waiting for you in the oven. This Overnight Breakfast Casserole is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with wholesome ingredients that will fuel your day. With its creamy texture and sweet pops of fruit, it’s a comforting dish that everyone will love—perfect for busy mornings or leisurely weekend brunches. You can even personalize it with your favorite mix-ins!
Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 ½ cups almond milk (or your favorite non-dairy milk)
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 cup diced fruit (such as berries or apples)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond milk, mashed banana, vanilla extract, baking powder, and cinnamon. Stir until the mixture is well combined and the oats are fully submerged in the milk.
- If you love a little extra texture and sweetness, gently fold in the chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and diced fruit of your choice.
- Grease a baking dish with a bit of oil or cooking spray and transfer the wonderfully fragrant mixture into it.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate overnight to allow the oats to soak up the flavors.
- The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and hot.
- Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and uncover it—you’re about to get a whiff of a delicious breakfast!
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the oats feel set.
- Once out of the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes. Then, slice into squares and serve warm, perhaps with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to get creative with this casserole! You can use whatever fruits are in season or swap the nuts for seeds if you have nut allergies. This dish is versatile and can easily be customized to suit your taste or dietary needs. Also, if you want an added crunch, try topping with granola before serving!
Cooking Techniques
Soaking the oats overnight is key to achieving that perfect, creamy consistency. This method allows the oats to absorb the almond milk, leading to a rich and satisfying breakfast casserole. Baking it just until the top is golden provides a lovely texture contrast with the soft interior.
FAQ
Can I prepare this breakfast casserole in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s designed to be made the night before, making your morning routine a breeze.
What can I use instead of almond milk?
You can easily substitute any non-dairy milk, or even regular dairy milk if you prefer.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick breakfast!
Conclusion
This Overnight Breakfast Casserole is the perfect blend of convenience and deliciousness. With minimal prep work and a dreamy, hearty outcome, it embodies everything we love about a comforting breakfast. So gather your loved ones, indulge in this delightful dish, and enjoy the smiles it brings to the breakfast table!