If you’re searching for a show-stopping brunch or a cozy weekend breakfast, look no further than Blueberry French Toast Casserole Delight. This irresistible dish combines pillowy-soft brioche bread, bursts of juicy blueberries, and a sweet, custardy base for a breakfast casserole that feels both special and comforting. Whether you’re hosting friends for brunch or simply want to treat your family, Blueberry French Toast Casserole Delight brings together the best flavors and textures in one easy, make-ahead bake.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Bread and Fruit
- 1 loaf brioche or French bread, cubed
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Garnish
- Powdered sugar for garnish
How to Make Blueberry French Toast Casserole Delight
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Begin by generously greasing a 9×13 baking dish. This step ensures your Blueberry French Toast Casserole Delight releases effortlessly and helps create those deliciously crisp edges everyone loves.
Step 2: Layer the Bread and Blueberries
Spread half of your cubed bread evenly over the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle half the blueberries over the bread, then add the remaining bread cubes and finish with the rest of the blueberries. This double-layer method ensures every scoop is loaded with juicy berries and tender bread.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and well combined. This custard will soak into the bread, creating that classic French toast flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Pour and Soak
Slowly pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and blueberry layers. Press down gently with a spatula to help the bread absorb the liquid. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, letting the bread soak up all that custardy goodness. This step is key to the melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes Blueberry French Toast Casserole Delight so memorable.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and take off the cover. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. The aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting their first bite!
Step 6: Rest and Finish
Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This allows the custard to settle, making it easier to slice and serve. If you like, give it a generous dusting of powdered sugar for that perfect final flourish.
How to Serve Blueberry French Toast Casserole Delight
Garnishes
For a truly stunning Blueberry French Toast Casserole Delight, dust the top with powdered sugar just before serving. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of warm maple syrup can take it over the top, and a few extra fresh blueberries scattered on top add a burst of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with crispy bacon, savory breakfast sausages, or a bright fruit salad. For a lighter touch, serve alongside Greek yogurt or a simple green salad to balance out the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to impress, slice the Blueberry French Toast Casserole Delight into neat squares and serve on individual plates with a sprig of mint. For a more casual gathering, offer it family-style straight from the baking dish, letting everyone help themselves to seconds (and thirds!).
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Blueberry French Toast Casserole Delight reheats beautifully, making it just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, cool the casserole completely, then wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to two months. When you need an easy breakfast or brunch, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, for about 15 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick fix, though the oven method keeps the edges nice and crisp.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Breakfast, Brunch
Absolutely! While brioche and French bread are classics for Blueberry French Toast Casserole Delight, challah or any sturdy, slightly stale bread works well. Just avoid thin sandwich bread, as it may become too soggy.
Can I make Blueberry French Toast Casserole Delight dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute your favorite non-dairy milk (such as almond or oat milk) for the milk and cream, and use a dairy-free bread. Just be sure to check that all your ingredients are suitable for your dietary needs.
Can I assemble this the same day instead of overnight?
If you’re short on time, let the casserole soak for at least 30 minutes before baking. However, overnight soaking allows for deeper flavor and the dreamy texture that makes Blueberry French Toast Casserole Delight so special.
What’s the best way to prevent the casserole from getting soggy?
Use day-old or slightly stale bread, and make sure to let the casserole bake until the center is firm and the top is golden. If using frozen blueberries, toss them with a bit of flour before layering to prevent excess moisture.
Can I add other fruits or mix-ins?
Definitely! Try adding raspberries, blackberries, or even a layer of cream cheese for extra richness. Just remember to keep the blueberry component front and center for that classic Blueberry French Toast Casserole Delight flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something about Blueberry French Toast Casserole Delight that makes every morning feel a little more magical. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience just how delightful breakfast can be!
Print
Blueberry French Toast Casserole Delight Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes plus overnight refrigeration
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Blueberry French Toast Casserole Delight is a decadent and easy-to-make breakfast or brunch dish. Featuring soft brioche bread soaked overnight in a rich custard mixture with fresh blueberries, then baked to a golden perfection. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd and can be made ahead for convenience.
Ingredients
Bread and Fruit
- 1 loaf brioche or French bread, cubed
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Garnish
- Powdered sugar for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and arrange half of the cubed bread evenly at the bottom.
- Add blueberries: Sprinkle half of the blueberries evenly over the bread layer, then add the remaining cubed bread on top followed by the rest of the blueberries, layering evenly.
- Mix custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until fully combined to create a smooth custard.
- Pour custard over bread: Carefully pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and blueberries, ensuring the bread is fully soaked.
- Refrigerate overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the custard, creating a rich and creamy texture.
- Preheat oven: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake casserole: Remove the casserole from the fridge and bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set and firm to the touch.
- Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving to let it set further. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Notes
- For best results, use day-old brioche or French bread which absorbs the custard better without becoming too mushy.
- Frozen blueberries can be used but there is no need to thaw them before layering.
- You can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave nectar if preferred.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before for stress-free mornings or brunch gatherings.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute the bread with a gluten-free alternative.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/8 of casserole)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg
