There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm breakfast that welcomes you at the start of the day. As the crisp autumn air breathes in a hint of nostalgia, I crave the flavors of homemade waffles layered with sweet, juicy blueberries. That’s exactly how I stumbled upon this Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole, a delightful twist on a classic.
Picture this: thick, golden waffles soaked overnight in a luscious custard, bursting with berries and topped with a crumbly cinnamon layer. It’s the perfect make-ahead solution for busy mornings or leisurely brunches, allowing you to check one more thing off your to-do list while still enjoying a heartfelt, home-cooked meal. This casserole marries convenience with a spectrum of flavors, transforming your typical breakfast routine into a special occasion. Who knew a simple dish could evoke such joy? Let’s dive into this recipe that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye!
Why is Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole a Must-Try?
Comforting Warmth: This casserole is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for those cozy mornings when you want a little extra love in your breakfast.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it the night before to save time and enjoy a stress-free morning. Just pop it in the oven and relax!
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet blueberries and cinnamon adds a burst of flavor that dances on your palate, making every bite irresistible.
Versatile Delight: Whether you swap blueberries for your favorite fruit or add a sprinkle of nuts, this dish allows for customization according to your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for serving guests or family gatherings, it’s a dish that makes everyone feel special without demanding too much effort from you.
Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole Ingredients
For the Waffles
• Pancake and Waffle Mix – This forms the delicious base for your casserole; opt for gluten-free if needed.
• Melted Coconut Oil – Adds a rich, moist texture; swap with melted butter or vegan butter if preferred.
• Large Eggs (11 total) – Essential for structure and moisture; no substitutions here!
• Water – Hydrates the waffle mix; using milk can enhance the flavor beautifully.
• Almond Milk – Creates a creamy batter; feel free to use dairy milk as an alternative.
For the Casserole Batter
• Maple Syrup – Infuses natural sweetness throughout; honey or agave syrup works as great alternatives.
• Vanilla Extract – A flavor enhancer that elevates the dish; almond extract could be an interesting swap.
• Ground Cinnamon – Our warm flavor hero; nutmeg is a delightful substitute for a different spice note.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness effectively; crucial for seasoned flavor, no substitute recommended.
For the Crumble Topping
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the delightful topping; consider coconut sugar for a healthier option.
• Brown Sugar – Provides rich flavor; use dark brown sugar for an even deeper taste.
• Ground Cinnamon (for topping) – An extra touch of spice to make the crumble sing.
• Melted Butter or Vegan Butter – Imparts moisture and flavor; choose based on dietary needs.
• All-Purpose Flour (or 1:1 Gluten-Free Flour) – Gives structure to the crumble; almond flour adds a lovely nutty twist.
Remember, each ingredient contributes to making this Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole a delightful morning treat! Enjoy putting this recipe together!
How to Make Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole
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Prepare Waffles: In a large bowl, combine the pancake and waffle mix, melted coconut oil, eggs, and water. Cook in a preheated waffle iron for about 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow cooling slightly, then cut the waffles into quarters.
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Layer Ingredients: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and create an even layer with half of the waffle pieces. Next, sprinkle half of the juicy blueberries on top, then repeat with another layer of waffles and blueberries.
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Make Casserole Batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Pour the mixture evenly over the stacked waffle and blueberry layers, allowing it to seep in.
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Prepare Crumble Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and melted butter with flour until the mixture becomes crumbly. Evenly sprinkle this topping over the casserole.
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Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight or for at least 3 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while the waffles soak up the egg mixture.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set. Serve warm with a drizzle of extra maple syrup for added sweetness.
Optional: Garnish with fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar for a delightful touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole
- Waffle Consistency: Ensure your waffles are golden and not soggy; undercooked waffles contribute to a less desirable texture in the casserole.
- Overnight Soak: Allow the casserole to soak for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight; this helps the flavors meld beautifully for the best Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole.
- Fresh vs. Frozen: If using frozen blueberries, avoid thawing them first. This prevents excess moisture from making your casserole watery.
- Crumble Topping Texture: Mix the crumble topping until it’s just combined and crumbly, not too fine. This adds a delightful texture that contrasts the soft interior.
- Cooling Period: After baking, let the casserole sit for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set properly and makes serving easier.
Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to your taste preferences while keeping that comforting essence intact!
- Berry Swap: Replace blueberries with raspberries or blackberries for a tangy twist. Fruits like sliced bananas or chopped apples also bring a delightful change.
- Nutty Crumble: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumble topping for extra crunch and richness. These nuts provide a lovely contrast to the soft, custardy interior.
- Chocolate Delight: For a touch of indulgence, mix chocolate chips into the waffle batter or scatter them between the layers. A sweet chocolate surprise awaits in every bite.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of pumpkin pie spice to the batter for a fall-inspired flavor. A dash of cardamom can elevate this dish with a unique aromatic touch.
- Plant-Based Twist: Use aquafaba instead of eggs and almond milk for a completely vegan version. This adaptation keeps the flavors intact while accommodating plant-based diets.
- Sweetness Swap: If you’re searching for a lower-glycemic option, try using coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar. It lends a subtle caramel flavor that’s absolutely delightful.
- Savory Spin: Experiment with savory elements by adding cooked breakfast sausage or crispy bacon to the layers. This unexpected twist creates a whole new flavor profile!
- Gluten-Free Goodness: Opt for a gluten-free waffle mix like Bob’s Red Mill to ensure everyone can savor this casserole, helping your loved ones enjoy it without worries.
Embrace your culinary spirit, and make this recipe uniquely yours with these scrumptious variations!
Make Ahead Options
These Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or mornings when you need a delicious breakfast without the fuss. You can assemble the entire casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, allowing the flavors to meld overnight for a tasty, stress-free start to your day. For maximum freshness, ensure you cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 45-50 minutes until it’s gold and set. This way, you’ll have a heartwarming meal that’s just as delightful as if you made it from scratch that morning!
How to Store and Freeze Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Freezer: This casserole freezes beautifully! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, storing for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. For best results, reheat from frozen gently in the oven.
- Reheating: If reheating chilled, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. For frozen, bake for 45-50 minutes. Enjoy your delicious Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole!
What to Serve with Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole?
Create a delightful breakfast spread that captures the essence of comfort and togetherness.
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Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon pairs beautifully with the sweet, fruity flavors of the casserole. It’s a match made in breakfast heaven!
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits brings a burst of color and lightness, balancing the richness of the casserole deliciously.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a dreamy touch, inviting you to indulge even further in that comforting sweetness.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: Bring out the flavors by serving warm maple syrup on the side, allowing guests to customize their sweetness. A must for any waffle-style dish!
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Chai-Spiced Latte: Warm your hearts with a chai latte, where the spices beautifully enhance the cozy vibe of your meal. This drink creates lovely warmth for those chilly mornings.
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Savory Sausages: For a heartier breakfast, consider pairing with flavorful sausages. Their savory depth complements the sweetness, creating an inviting breakfast table.
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Hot Cocoa: Surprise your guests with mugs of velvety hot cocoa – it’s a fun, warming drink that delights both young and old.
Transform your kitchen into a warm, inviting space—each of these delightful pairings will enhance your Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole experience!
Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of waffle mix should I use for the Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole?
Absolutely! You can use any pancake and waffle mix for this recipe. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, I highly recommend Bob’s Red Mill waffle mix. It provides the same delicious taste without gluten, allowing everyone to indulge in this cozy dish.
How should I store the Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This way, you can savor that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste even on busy mornings!
Can I freeze the Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole?
Yes, indeed! This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and you can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking. For reheating, if frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes until heated through.
What if I want to incorporate different fruits into the casserole?
Very! You can easily swap out the blueberries for other fruits like sliced bananas, raspberries, or chopped apples. Just keep in mind that certain fruits may release more moisture than others, which could affect the texture of your casserole. If using frozen fruits, do not thaw them before layering to prevent the dish from becoming soggy.
Are there any dietary considerations for the Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole?
Yes! This casserole can be made to accommodate various dietary preferences. You can use almond milk or any other non-dairy milk to keep it dairy-free. For those with egg allergies, I’ve had success with flax eggs as a substitute—mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water for each egg. Additionally, remember to check labels to avoid any potential allergens in your waffle mix or other ingredients.
Overnight Blueberry Waffle Casserole for Effortless Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the pancake and waffle mix, melted coconut oil, eggs, and water. Cook in a preheated waffle iron for about 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow cooling slightly, then cut the waffles into quarters.
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and create an even layer with half of the waffle pieces. Next, sprinkle half of the juicy blueberries on top, then repeat with another layer of waffles and blueberries.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Pour the mixture evenly over the stacked waffle and blueberry layers.
- In a mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter with flour until the mixture becomes crumbly. Evenly sprinkle this topping over the casserole.
- Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight or for at least 3 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set. Serve warm with a drizzle of extra maple syrup.