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Easy Maple Butter Pancake Breakfast Casserole

maple butter pancake breakfast casserole - featured image

A cozy and effortless brunch casserole featuring buttery maple-soaked bread cubes baked to golden perfection with a soft custardy interior.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups day-old bread, cubed (brioche or challah preferred)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk (480 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for topping)
  • Additional maple syrup for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cube about 6 cups of day-old bread into roughly 1-inch pieces and place in a 9×13 inch baking dish or large bowl.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups whole milk, 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, 6 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth and slightly frothy.
  3. Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes. Gently toss and press the bread to soak up the custard. Let sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for 1 to 8 hours for best results.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  5. If using nuts, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts evenly over the top.
  6. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and custard is set (a knife inserted near the center should come out clean). Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  7. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Drizzle with extra maple syrup if desired.

Notes

Use day-old bread to prevent sogginess. Soaking bread overnight enhances flavor and texture. Use pure maple syrup for best taste. Cover with foil if top browns too fast. For gluten-free, use sturdy gluten-free bread. For vegan, substitute plant-based milk, dairy-free butter, and egg replacers.

Nutrition

Keywords: maple, butter, pancake, breakfast casserole, brunch, easy recipe, comfort food, maple syrup, custard, baked casserole