Casserole loves you ❤️ ...
Pancake casserole
Pancakes finally got casserole status.
🥕 Ingredients
📋 Complete List
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- 12 large homestyle frozen pancakes, cut into quarters for easy layering
- 6 large eggs at room temperature, well beaten until light and frothy
- 2 cups whole milk, slightly warmed to prevent curdling
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract for enhanced flavor
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, preferably Ceylon variety
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg for warmth
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, washed and dried thoroughly
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes
- Powdered sugar for dusting the finished casserole
📝 Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350F (175C) and position the rack in the middle for optimal heat distribution
Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter, ensuring all corners and sides are well coated
Arrange half of the quartered pancakes in an overlapping layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, maple syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and well combined
Scatter half of the cream cheese cubes, strawberries, and nuts over the pancake layer
Layer the remaining pancake quarters on top of the fruit and cream cheese mixture
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the entire casserole, gently pressing down on pancakes to help them absorb the liquid
Top with remaining cream cheese, strawberries, and nuts
Cover with foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld
Bake covered for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown and set
Let rest for 10 minutes before serving, then dust with powdered sugar
💡 Chef's Tips
Use day-old or slightly stale pancakes as they will better absorb the egg mixture without becoming mushy
Bring refrigerated ingredients to room temperature for more even baking and better texture
Press down gently on the pancakes periodically while pouring the egg mixture to ensure even distribution
For extra richness, use half-and-half instead of whole milk in the egg mixture
📊 Nutrition Facts
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this casserole actually benefits from overnight refrigeration as it allows the flavors to develop
Absolutely! Just make sure they're slightly cooled and a bit dry to prevent sogginess
The casserole should be golden brown on top and set in the middle with no liquid egg mixture visible
Yes, use an 8x8 inch baking dish and reduce cooking time by about 10 minutes