If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, indulgent breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. It perfectly balances the sweetness of fresh blueberries with the rich, custardy texture of French toast baked to golden perfection. The best part is how effortlessly it comes together the night before, letting you wake up to the irresistible aroma and a ready-to-bake dish that’s sure to impress family or guests without any morning stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe is a testament to how straightforward and essential flavors create magic. Each component plays a key role in achieving the perfect texture, fragrant aroma, and vibrant color that make this dish so special.
- French bread (1 loaf, 14 to 16 ounces, cubed): A sturdy bread that soaks up the custard beautifully without turning soggy.
- Fresh or frozen blueberries (1 1/2 cups): Juicy bursts of sweetness that add a lovely pop of color and flavor throughout.
- Eggs (8 large): The binding agent that gives you that rich, custard-like consistency.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Adds creaminess and softness to the custard base.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Makes the custard extra decadent and silky.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the custard just enough without overpowering the blueberries.
- Light brown sugar (1/4 cup, packed): Introduces a hint of caramel flavor and warmth.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances the overall aroma and deepens the flavor profile.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle spice that perfectly complements the berries.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and heightens all the flavors.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Provides richness and ensures a golden, slightly crispy top.
- Powdered sugar (optional, for serving): A lovely finishing touch that adds visual appeal and extra sweetness.
How to Make Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Blueberries
Start by greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread half of the cubed French bread evenly at the bottom of the dish, then sprinkle half of the blueberries over the bread. Repeat with the remaining bread cubes and blueberries, layering for optimum flavor dispersion.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until fully combined and smooth. This mixture forms the flavorful custard that soaks into the bread, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 3: Combine and Chill Overnight
Pour the custard evenly over the layered bread and blueberries, making sure you press down gently so every piece of bread absorbs the liquid. Drizzle the melted butter on top to help achieve a deliciously golden crust. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight—this wait time is the secret to an unbeatable texture.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
When you’re ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes until the center is set and the top is a gorgeous golden brown. Once out of the oven, let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar gives this casserole a delicate, snowy finish that’s as pretty as it is tasty. Fresh blueberries or a drizzle of warm maple syrup add brightness and that extra touch of indulgence.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with crisp bacon, turkey sausage, or a side of fresh fruit salad for a balanced breakfast spread. A dollop of Greek yogurt can also add a tangy contrast that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch crowd, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets topped with a sprig of mint for freshness. You can also add a streusel topping before baking for a crunchy twist that turns this dish into a show-stopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftover casserole tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. This way, you can enjoy a quick, ready-to-reheat breakfast without compromising taste or texture.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. Portion it out into airtight containers and freeze for up to one month. When you want a comforting breakfast treat, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 15 to 20 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the texture of the crust and avoid sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this casserole?
Absolutely! While French bread is ideal for its texture and absorbency, sturdy breads like brioche or challah work beautifully, adding their own unique flavor and richness.
Do I have to use fresh blueberries?
Frozen blueberries are perfectly fine and convenient; just be sure to use them frozen without thawing first to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
Can I make the casserole without dairy?
Yes, you can substitute dairy with almond milk or oat milk and use a plant-based butter to make it dairy-free, but it might slightly alter the custard’s richness and texture.
Is it possible to add other fruits?
Definitely! Raspberries, strawberries, or sliced peaches make excellent additions or substitutions that bring different layers of sweetness and flavor.
How can I add a crunchy topping?
Before baking, sprinkle a mixture of brown sugar, chopped nuts, and a bit of flour or oats over the casserole to create a delightful streusel that bakes up golden and crispy.
Final Thoughts
This Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe is a heartwarming way to start your day, blending simplicity with indulgence in every bite. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself looking forward to those relaxed mornings when your breakfast practically makes itself. Trust me, sharing this dish with loved ones turns any breakfast into an occasion worth savoring.
Print
Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 7 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole is a delightful make-ahead breakfast perfect for brunches or holiday mornings. Cubes of French bread are soaked in a rich custard infused with vanilla and cinnamon, layered with fresh blueberries, and baked to golden perfection. Enjoy the comforting blend of sweet and fruity flavors with an optional dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Ingredients
Bread and Fruit
- 1 loaf (14 to 16 ounces) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Custard Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Finishing
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Powdered sugar for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Layer Bread and Blueberries: Spread half of the cubed French bread evenly in the dish and sprinkle half of the blueberries on top. Repeat with the remaining bread cubes and blueberries, creating two layers.
- Mix Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and blueberries. Gently press down the bread cubes to help them absorb the custard fully.
- Add Butter: Drizzle the melted unsalted butter over the top of the custard-soaked bread to add richness and help the crust brown beautifully.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to soak up the custard.
- Bring to Room Temperature: When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit uncovered at room temperature for about 20 minutes to ensure even baking.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the uncovered casserole for 45 to 55 minutes until the center is set and the top turns golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup or vanilla glaze for added sweetness.
Notes
- For added texture and flavor, sprinkle a simple streusel topping over the casserole before baking.
- Maple syrup or a drizzle of vanilla glaze pairs beautifully with this dish.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
