Overnight Pancake Breakfast Bake is the perfect solution for those busy mornings when you want a delicious breakfast without the morning fuss. Imagine waking up to the aroma of fluffy pancakes layered in a creamy custard, all ready to be devoured by your family. This comforting dish is not only a breeze to prepare, but it’s also a fabulous way to use up frozen pancakes you might have tucked away in your freezer. Whether it’s for a holiday brunch, a simple weeknight dinner, or a special weekend treat, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are so many reasons to whip up this Overnight Pancake Breakfast Bake! First off, it’s a lifesaver for anyone juggling a hectic schedule. You can prep the entire dish the night before, pop it in the fridge, and just bake it in the morning. It’s budget-friendly, too, using simple ingredients that are usually on hand. Plus, kids and adults alike will be begging for seconds, which makes it a true family-approved hit.
"This dish transformed our weekend breakfasts! It’s easy to prepare, and everyone loves it!" – A happy reader.
How to Make Overnight Pancake Breakfast Bake
Creating this delightful breakfast bake is a straightforward process that will leave your kitchen smelling heavenly. You’ll be layering those frozen pancakes and soaking them in a luscious egg mixture that brings everything together. With the crumb topping baked to a golden perfection, it’s all about making mornings easier and tastier.
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What You’ll Need
Gather these items to make your Overnight Pancake Breakfast Bake:
- 24 frozen pancakes, cut in half
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tsp sugar
- Dash of nutmeg
- ½ cup flour
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- Cinnamon to taste
- ¼ cup brown sugar
If you’d like to lighten this up a bit, you can swap out whole milk for low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative. Likewise, you can play around with different types of sugar if you prefer.
Step-by-step Instructions
- Cut each of the 24 frozen pancakes in half and layer them with the rounded side facing up in a casserole dish, packing them tightly.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the 6 eggs and mix in the whole milk and evaporated milk until well combined.
- Add the sugar, sprinkle in cinnamon and a dash of nutmeg to taste, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the egg mixture over the pancakes in the casserole dish. Cover with tin foil and refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and mix until it resembles a loose crumble.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the pancake casserole and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and golden.
- Serve warm with fresh fruit or syrup for a delicious finish.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When serving your Overnight Pancake Breakfast Bake, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh berries or sliced bananas on top right before serving for a burst of flavor. A drizzle of maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar can also elevate this dish. Pair it with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a well-rounded breakfast that your family will adore!
How to Store
If you have leftovers—or if you’re lucky enough to have any—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze the entire casserole before baking it. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge, bake it as directed, and you’ll still have that fluffy goodness ready to go.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To ensure that your casserole comes out perfectly every time, here are a few tips:
- Make sure your pancakes are tightly packed together; this helps them hold their shape during baking.
- Allow the dish some time to cool slightly before slicing. This helps the layers set better.
- Experiment with different toppings and flavors—a little chocolate chip or fruit addition could make it even more fun!
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative! Instead of just cinnamon, try adding a pinch of pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist. You could also replace some of the flour with oats for added fiber, or use coconut milk for a tropical spin. The possibilities are endless!
Common Questions
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Preparation takes about 20-30 minutes, and then just let it chill overnight!
Can I use fresh pancakes instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh pancakes can give you the same delicious texture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
Overnight Pancake Breakfast Bake
A delicious and easy breakfast bake using frozen pancakes, perfect for busy mornings.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 24 frozen pancakes, cut in half
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tsp sugar
- Dash of nutmeg
- ½ cup flour
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- Cinnamon to taste
- ¼ cup brown sugar
Instructions
- Cut each of the 24 frozen pancakes in half and layer them with the rounded side facing up in a casserole dish, packing them tightly.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the 6 eggs and mix in the whole milk and evaporated milk until well combined.
- Add the sugar, sprinkle in cinnamon and a dash of nutmeg to taste, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the egg mixture over the pancakes in the casserole dish. Cover with tin foil and refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and mix until it resembles a loose crumble.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the pancake casserole and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and golden.
- Serve warm with fresh fruit or syrup for a delicious finish.
Notes
For a lighter version, swap whole milk with low-fat or non-dairy alternatives. Experiment with different types of sugar for varied flavor.