Oh, friends, gather around because I am about to share my absolute favorite breakfast treat: Strawberry Shortcake Breakfast Casserole! This dish is the kind of breakfast that feels like a warm hug, perfect for lazy Sunday mornings or special occasions where you want to impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made this; my kids’ eyes lit up like it was Christmas morning. The combination of fluffy pancakes and sweet, succulent strawberries topped with a dollop of whipped cream is just heavenly!
What makes this casserole unique is its delightful creamy texture paired with a crispy top, reminiscent of the classic strawberry shortcake we all adore but in a breakfast form. You can’t get any better than pulling this gem out of the oven to fragrant aromas that will have the whole house waking up with smiles. So, grab your favorite apron, and let’s get to cooking!
What’s in Strawberry Shortcake Breakfast Casserole?
Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries are the star of this dish. Their sweetness complements the rich flavors and adds a beautiful pop of color. If they’re in season, definitely choose fresh, but frozen will work just fine too—just be sure to thaw and drain them!
Brioche Bread: This fluffy bread provides the perfect base for the casserole, soaking up all the delicious custard flavor. If you can, find a good quality brioche that’s soft and a bit sweet.
Eggs: Eggs bring everything together, giving the casserole that nice custard texture. I usually use large eggs.
Milk: Whole milk is my go-to here for richness, but 2% works too if that’s what you have on hand.
Vanilla Extract: Just a splash of vanilla adds depth and warmth to the flavors, making every bite taste a little more special.
Sugar: A bit of sugar is needed to bring out the delicious sweetness of the strawberries and enhance the overall flavor of the casserole. You can adjust it based on your taste.
Whipped Cream: This is optional but highly recommended! A light, fluffy topping right before serving makes this casserole even more scrumptious.
Is Strawberry Shortcake Breakfast Casserole Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about the health side of things. While this breakfast casserole is undoubtedly indulgent, it can be a sweet treat enjoyed occasionally.
Strawberries: These juicy berries are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, which means they’re not just delicious but also good for your body. High in vitamin C, they help boost your immune system!
Brioche Bread: While brioche is not the health star of the bread world, it’s rich and delicious. You might consider using whole-grain bread if you’re looking for a healthier alternative.
Eggs: Eggs are an excellent source of protein and other essential nutrients, so they do add some nutritional value to this sweet dish.
Whipped Cream: I say go for it if you want to indulge! Look for lighter versions if you want to cut back on calories. You can even make a whipped topping using Greek yogurt for a healthier twist!
Just one note of consideration: with all the sugar and carbs in this dish, it’s best saved for those weekends when you want to treat yourself or have guests over. Moderation is key, my friends!
Ingredients List
– 1 pound fresh strawberries, sliced (or thawed frozen)
– 1 loaf brioche bread, cubed (about 8 cups)
– 6 large eggs
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– Whipped cream (for serving)
Servings: This recipe serves about 8 generous portions, making it perfect for family gatherings or brunch with friends.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Breakfast Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
3. In the greased baking dish, layer the cubed brioche bread evenly. Top with the sliced strawberries, making sure to distribute them evenly.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until combined. You want it to be smooth and silky.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the bread and strawberries, ensuring that all the bread cubes are soaked. Gently press down the bread with a spatula so that it absorbs the liquid.
6. Allow the casserole to sit for about 15 minutes so the bread can soak up all that goodness.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed and golden brown on top.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with whipped cream if desired. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Sweet Tips and Tricks for Your Casserole
– If you want to make things even easier, prepare this casserole the night before. Just keep it in the fridge overnight and bake it fresh in the morning!
– You can switch up the berries! Raspberries and blueberries work beautifully in this recipe.
– Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the egg mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
– Serve alongside crispy bacon or some fresh orange juice for a complete brunch experience.
I truly hope you give this Strawberry Shortcake Breakfast Casserole a try! It’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together, creating lovely memories over a warm, delicious breakfast. Don’t forget to share your experiences when you make it; I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking, friends!