Name: Blueberry French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound rustic loaf, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 10 cups); 1½ to 2 cups blueberries, fresh or frozen; 5 large eggs; 2 cups milk, whole or 2%; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 6 tablespoons sugar, for custard; 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest; ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, diced, for topping; 2 tablespoons sugar, for topping; Butter, for the baking dish; Optional powdered sugar, for serving; Optional warm maple syrup, for serving

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Blueberry French Toast Casserole – Comforting & Delicious

Nothing says comfort like a warm, comforting dish of Blueberry French Toast Casserole. This delightful breakfast option combines the sweetness of blueberries with the satisfying texture of bread, all enveloped in a rich custard. Perfect for special occasions and lazy Sunday mornings alike, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why Make This Recipe

One of the standout features of this Blueberry French Toast Casserole is how effortlessly it brings together flavors and textures. It’s bursting with juicy blueberries, which not only add a pop of color but also a fresh sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy custard. The rustic loaf provides a delightful chewiness that holds up well to soaking in the custard, making every bite a comforting experience.

This dish is incredibly versatile. You can throw it together in advance, making it an ideal choice for brunch parties or holiday celebrations. Plus, it’s a great way to use stale bread, preventing food waste while creating something delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, this casserole is sure to impress and satisfy.

How to Make Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Ingredients

To whip up this cozy Blueberry French Toast Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound rustic loaf, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 10 cups)
1½ to 2 cups blueberries, fresh or frozen
5 large eggs
2 cups milk, whole or 2%
1 cup heavy cream
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
6 tablespoons sugar, for custard
1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, diced, for topping
2 tablespoons sugar, for topping
Butter, for the baking dish
Optional powdered sugar, for serving
Optional warm maple syrup, for serving

Directions

Start by buttering a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure your casserole won’t stick.
Layer half of the bread cubes in the dish, then sprinkle two-thirds of the blueberries over the bread. Add the remaining bread cubes and top with the rest of the blueberries.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, 6 tablespoons of sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and salt until everything is well combined.
Pour the custard evenly over the layered bread and gently press down to help the bread soak up the mixture. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or for best results, cover and refrigerate overnight.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If the dish was refrigerated, let it come to room temperature while the oven heats up.
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of sugar over the top of the casserole and dot with diced butter.
Bake for about 45 minutes or until the casserole is puffed and golden. If you let it chill overnight, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes so it can set properly before slicing.
Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with warm maple syrup before serving. Enjoy your warm slices of blueberry delight!

Pro Tips for Success in Your Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Use Day-Old Bread: Using slightly stale bread is key as it absorbs the custard without falling apart. If you only have fresh bread, leave it out overnight to dry a bit.
Choose the Right Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are ideal, but if you’re using frozen ones, don’t thaw them beforehand. This prevents excess moisture from making the casserole soggy.
Let it Soak: Allowing the casserole to sit for at least 30 minutes gives it time to soak up the custard. For the best results, refrigerate it overnight to enhance the flavors.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness. It should come out clean if the casserole is fully baked.
Customize Flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Warm: This dish tastes best when served warm. You can reheat leftovers in the oven to retain the texture.

Flavor Variations for Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Berry Medley: Swap out or add other berries like raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries for a mixed berry casserole.
Nutty Delight: Incorporate some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor contrast.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate or sprinkle chocolate chips into your casserole for a decadent twist.
Cinnamon Swirl: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon into the custard mixture for warmth and spice.
Banana Bliss: Layer in slices of banana for an extra sweet and filling breakfast option.

Serving Suggestions for Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Blueberry French Toast Casserole is delightful on its own, but you can elevate the experience with these serving suggestions:

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for added decadence.
Fresh fruit on the side, such as sliced strawberries or additional blueberries, makes for a refreshing addition.
Accompany with crispy bacon or sausage links for a savory balance.
A hot cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs wonderfully with this sweet breakfast dish.
Use a drizzle of homemade berry compote for a gourmet touch.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Blueberry French Toast Casserole

If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s hard to imagine!), here’s how to store them:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain texture.
Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It should last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
Post-Baking Freezing: If you’ve already baked the casserole and have leftovers, you can freeze individual portions. Wrap each piece tightly, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for the best results!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————|—————|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 250mg |

FAQ About Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Can I make Blueberry French Toast Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for prepare-ahead meals. You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking.

How long does it take to bake?

Typically, baking takes about 45 minutes at 350°F (175°C), but remember if you put your casserole in the oven straight from the fridge, it might need a few extra minutes. Look for a golden, puffed appearance.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes! While a rustic loaf is recommended, you can substitute it with brioche, challah, or even sourdough. Just ensure the bread is not too soft; you want it to hold up to the custard.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream, you can replace it with additional whole milk or a milk alternative. The richness may be slightly different, but it will still turn out delicious!

How can I add more flavor to the custard?

You can infuse extra flavor by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a splash of orange juice. Vanilla bean paste is another great option for a more intense vanilla flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Blueberry French Toast Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the sweet tang of blueberries with the richness of creamy custard. Whether it’s for a special brunch or a cozy weekend breakfast, this recipe has it all – simplicity, flavor, and versatility. With easy preparation and mouth-watering results, it’s sure to be a hit at your table. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for a delightful culinary experience!

Blueberry French Toast Casserole