Overnight Pancake Breakfast Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Overnight Pancake Breakfast Bake is the perfect make-ahead breakfast that combines the fluffiness of pancakes with the richness of a baked casserole. Prepared the night before, it’s a hassle-free way to start your day with a warm, comforting dish. The pancakes are layered in a casserole dish and soaked in a delicious custard mixture, topped with a buttery crumble for added texture and flavor. Serve it with syrup and fresh fruit for a delightful breakfast everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 24 frozen pancakes, cut in half
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 teaspoons sugar
• Dash of nutmeg
• 1/2 cup flour
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• Cinnamon to taste
• 1/4 cup brown sugar

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Pancakes: Cut each of the 24 frozen pancakes in half. Layer them in a casserole dish with the rounded side facing up, packing them tightly together.
2. Make the Custard: In a mixing bowl, beat the 6 eggs. Add the whole milk, evaporated milk, vanilla, sugar, cinnamon, and a dash of nutmeg. Stir until combined.
3. Assemble the Bake: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the pancakes in the casserole dish. Cover with tin foil and refrigerate overnight.
4. Make the Crumble Topping: In the morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the melted butter and mix until it forms a crumbly texture.
5. Bake: Sprinkle the crumble topping over the casserole and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and set.
6. Serve: Let it cool slightly, then serve with fresh fruit or syrup.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Fruit Add-ins: Add berries or sliced bananas to the pancake layers for extra sweetness and flavor.
• Spiced Version: Use pumpkin spice or apple pie spice instead of cinnamon for a seasonal twist.
• Chocolate Chip Pancake Bake: Add chocolate chips to the pancake layers for a decadent touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pancakes instead of frozen ones?

Yes, you can use homemade pancakes, just ensure they are cooled before layering in the dish.

Can I prepare this recipe without the crumble topping?

Yes, if you prefer a simpler dish, you can skip the crumble topping and bake it as is.

Can I freeze the casserole before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking in the morning.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can substitute any milk, such as almond milk or oat milk, for a dairy-free version.

Can I add nuts to the crumble topping?

Absolutely! Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.

How do I make it lighter?

Use skim milk, reduce the amount of butter, or use a sugar substitute.

Can I make this in a smaller dish?

Yes, adjust the recipe to fit a smaller casserole dish and reduce the cooking time.

How long does it take to bake from frozen?

Bake from frozen for about 60 minutes at 350°F, but make sure it’s fully thawed before adding the topping.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free pancake mix and a gluten-free flour blend for the crumble topping.

Conclusion

Overnight Pancake Breakfast Bake is a game-changer for busy mornings, offering the comforting flavors of pancakes in an easy-to-make casserole form. With minimal prep the night before, you can enjoy a warm, hearty breakfast with a sweet crumble topping. This dish is perfect for holidays, weekend brunches, or any time you want to treat your family to something special.

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