If you’ve ever woken up to the aroma of blueberry french toast casserole wafting through the house, you’ll know why it’s my favorite way to start the weekend. First, there’s something magical about the combination of sweet blueberries and creamy custard soaking into crusty bread. Also, it’s the kind of recipe that makes everyone peek into the kitchen, pajama-clad and hopeful.
However, I have to admit, my first attempt at this dish was a bit of a mess—blueberries rolling everywhere and a suspiciously lumpy cream cheese mix. So, don’t worry if your kitchen looks like a berry crime scene; the end result is worth every sticky finger. Finally, the best part is that blueberry french toast casserole isn’t just delicious, it’s forgiving. You can prep it the night before, pop it in the oven in the morning, and—voilà!—breakfast is served.
My Kitchen Story
First, let me say that making blueberry french toast casserole in my kitchen is never a quiet affair. There’s usually a last-minute scramble for eggs or a frantic search for just the right sized dish (mine’s always a bit too small, but I make it work). Then, the kids get involved—one sneaking blueberries, the other trying to build a bread cube tower. It’s chaos, but the good kind. I love that this recipe is baked, which means I can pop it in the oven and focus on coffee while the magic happens. No standing over the stove flipping slices, just hands-off, oven-powered joy.
Also, I’ve tried a few other baked breakfast ideas, like these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls when I’m in a savory mood or the Baked Mediterranean Flatbread Pizza for something a bit different. However, nothing beats the comfort of a warm, custardy breakfast morning casserole. The blueberry french toast casserole is my go-to for brunch ideas for parties , especially when I want to impress without the fuss.
What Makes It Stand Out
Finally, what really sets this dish apart is the dreamy cream cheese layer nestled between the bread, and the burst of juicy berries in every bite. So, whether you’re after dessert breakfast casserole vibes or searching for breakfast simple recipes , this one ticks all the boxes. It’s a winner for easy brunch sandwiches fans and the best breakfast sides crowd alike. If you’re hunting for 9×13 breakfast recipes , this blueberry french toast casserole is the champion of my kitchen table.
What You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Softened cream cheese | 1 pack (8 ounces) |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons + 2 cups |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tablespoon, divided |
| Blueberries | 2 cups (divided) |
| French bread, cubed | 2 loaves |
| Eggs | 8 |
| Cinnamon powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/2 teaspoon |
Handy Kitchen Helpers
First, let’s talk about what makes this blueberry french toast casserole so cozy to whip up. Since we’re baking it, a sturdy 10×14-inch baking dish is a must. I always grab my biggest mixing bowls for the egg mixture—it makes soaking every bit of bread so much easier. If you’re planning a brunch party , this dish is a showstopper straight from the oven, and it fits right in with other sweet casseroles for breakfast .
Also, don’t forget to use a good whisk for the eggs and spices. If you don’t have French bread, any sturdy loaf works—just avoid anything too soft, or it’ll get mushy. For a little extra crunch, you could sprinkle a handful of chopped nuts on top before baking. Then, once it’s finished, let it cool a bit before slicing so everyone gets a perfect piece.
When you’re baking dishes like this, always remember safe storage and reheating. The official food safety guidelines are a lifesaver for keeping leftovers fresh. For more breakfast simple recipes , I love pairing this with a savory slow cooker chicken for a big family brunch. There’s just something about the smell of cinnamon and blueberries baking that makes the whole house feel welcoming.
Step-by-step method for a Baked recipe
Step 1
First, prepare the cream cheese mixture. Combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy, then gently fold in 1 cup of blueberries.
Step 2
Next, assemble the bread layers in a 10×14-inch baking dish. Layer half of the cubed French bread evenly across the bottom. Spread the cream cheese mixture over this base, then top with the remaining bread cubes.
Step 3
Then, whisk together 2 cups of milk, eggs, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large bowl. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the layered bread, making sure it soaks through. Sprinkle 1 cup of blueberries on top. Cover the dish tightly with foil and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight. Remove it 30 to 60 minutes before baking.
Tips and tricks to make this Baked recipe shine
When baking your blueberry french toast casserole, preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) ensures even cooking and a perfectly set center. Also, removing the foil halfway through baking helps the top brown nicely without drying out the casserole. This recipe fits wonderfully among the Best Breakfast Options and Sweet Casseroles For Breakfast, making it a versatile choice for any morning.
For a fun twist, try serving this with some of the Best Breakfast Sides or pair it with simple dishes like Easy Brunch Sandwiches. If you enjoy slow cooker meals, check out the Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe Made Easy In Your Slow Cooker Crockpot or the Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe For A Healthy Weeknight Dinner for complementary dinner ideas. This baked blueberry french toast casserole is a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that brightens up any brunch or breakfast table.
What to serve with this Baked recipe
Blueberry french toast casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or a light salad to balance its sweetness. Also, consider serving it alongside some crispy breakfast potatoes or your favorite breakfast sides for a hearty meal. For more cozy meal ideas, try our One Pot Merry Me Chicken Pasta Creamy Dinner Recipe Easy And Delicious or the Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Recipe Easy Dump And Go Crockpot Dinner.
How to store and reheat
Since this blueberry french toast casserole is baked, it holds up well when stored in the fridge. First, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to keep it fresh for up to 3 days. Next, reheat individual portions in the oven or toaster oven to maintain that crisp, golden top. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the texture soggy. Also, you can freeze leftovers wrapped well and thaw them overnight before reheating.
FAQ
Can I make blueberry french toast casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. This allows the bread to soak up the custard mixture fully, making it even more flavorful when baked.
What type of bread works best for this casserole?
Sturdy bread like brioche or challah is ideal because it absorbs the custard well without falling apart. However, any thick-sliced bread you have on hand will work fine.
Can I substitute blueberries with other fruits?
Absolutely! Fresh or frozen fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or peaches can be used to add variety to the casserole.
Is it necessary to use maple syrup on top?
No, maple syrup is optional. You can serve the casserole with powdered sugar, honey, or fresh fruit compote instead.
Print
Blueberry French Toast Casserole
- Total Time: 9 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and flavorful breakfast casserole layered with French bread, cream cheese, and fresh blueberries, soaked in a spiced egg mixture and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
1 pack (8 ounces) softened cream cheese
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract, divided
1 cup blueberries (for cream cheese mixture)
2 loaves cubed French bread
2 cups milk
8 eggs
1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 cup blueberries (for topping)
Instructions
1. In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy, then fold in 1 cup of blueberries.
2. In a 10×14-inch baking dish, layer half of the cubed French bread. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over this layer. Top with the remaining bread cubes.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of milk, eggs, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered bread, ensuring full coverage. Sprinkle 1 cup of blueberries on top. Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight. Remove 30 to 60 minutes before baking.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Bake the covered dish for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until center is set and top is lightly browned.
6. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Use day-old French bread for best texture.
Substitute blueberries with other fresh berries if desired.
Cover and refrigerate leftovers, consume within 3 days.
Allow the casserole to sit at room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 210 mg
Thanks for spending some time with me in the kitchen today. I hope this blueberry french toast casserole brings a little extra warmth and joy to your breakfast table. If you’re looking for more comforting recipes, check out our One Pot Merry Me Chicken Pasta Creamy Dinner Recipe Easy And Delicious or the Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Recipe Easy Dump And Go Crockpot Dinner. Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more tasty ideas and inspiration.