Easy make-ahead berry breakfast (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 1 pound crusty bread, slightly stale
02 - 6 cups fresh berries (about 2 pounds)
03 - 1 1/3 cups unsweetened applesauce or mashed ripe banana

→ Wet Mixture

04 - 2/3 cup milk of your preference
05 - 2/3 cup egg whites (or additional milk for vegan option)
06 - 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar
07 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - If your bread isn't already slightly stale, either leave it uncovered overnight or toast it in a 300°F oven for about 15 minutes to dry it out slightly.
02 - Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Cut the bread into roughly 1-inch cubes and spread them evenly across the pan to create your base layer.
03 - In a large bowl, whisk together the applesauce, milk, egg whites (or additional milk), maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.
04 - Pour the wet mixture evenly over the bread cubes, making sure all pieces get soaked. Scatter the berries across the top, gently pressing some down into the mixture.
05 - Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight, allowing the bread to absorb all the delicious flavors.
06 - The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the casserole on the center rack and bake for about 1 hour, or until the top is lightly golden and the center is set.
07 - Enjoy your breakfast casserole either warm from the oven or chilled - it's delicious both ways!

# Notes:

01 - This make-ahead breakfast casserole is perfect for busy mornings or when hosting weekend guests.
02 - Recipe adapted from Chocolate Covered Katie (chocolatecoveredkatie.com).
03 - Can be prepared the night before and baked fresh in the morning.