Imagine waking up on Christmas morning to the irresistible aroma of a warm, comforting casserole that’s as delightful as the holiday spirit itself. The "Christmas Morning Classic Amish Waffle Casserole" is not just a dish; it’s a festive experience that combines fluffy waffles, creamy eggs, and a hint of sweet maple syrup, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this deliciously easy recipe will have your family gathered around the table, eagerly anticipating each mouthwatering bite. Ready to elevate your holiday brunch? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that will make your Christmas morning truly unforgettable!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: Amish
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 waffles, cooked and cut into squares
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until completely smooth and well combined.
- Cut the pre-cooked waffles into 1-inch square pieces. Arrange these waffle squares evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a single layer that covers the entire surface.
- Slowly pour the egg and milk mixture over the waffle pieces, ensuring that each waffle square is thoroughly saturated. Use a spatula to gently press down on the waffles, helping them absorb the liquid.
- If using pecans, sprinkle them evenly across the top of the casserole for added texture and flavor.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with additional maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time on Christmas morning, you can prepare the casserole the night before. Simply assemble the ingredients and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just pop it in the oven and enjoy!
- Waffle Variety: Feel free to mix and match different types of waffles—Belgian, whole grain, or even flavored varieties like chocolate chip or blueberry—for a unique twist.
- Add Fruits: Enhance the flavor and nutrition by adding fresh fruits such as sliced bananas, berries, or apples into the casserole before baking.
- Perfectly Greased Dish: Ensure your baking dish is well-greased to prevent sticking. This will make serving and cleanup a breeze.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check the center of the casserole. It should come out clean when it’s fully cooked, indicating that the eggs are set.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your casserole warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra festive touch.
- Leftover Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick breakfast treat!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 220mg
