Description
This Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole is a delicious and easy make-ahead breakfast or brunch recipe featuring layers of French bread and fresh blueberries soaked in a rich custard mixture, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for busy mornings or special occasions, it delivers a comforting blend of sweet berries, warm spices, and creamy custard, topped optionally with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1 inch cubes (about 10 to 12 cups)
- 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Powdered sugar for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer the bread and blueberries: Spread half of the bread cubes evenly in the dish and sprinkle with half of the blueberries. Top with the remaining bread cubes and blueberries to create layers.
- Make custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter until fully combined into a smooth custard.
- Soak the bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and blueberries, pressing down gently to ensure all pieces are thoroughly soaked.
- Chill overnight: Cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours to allow the flavors to meld and bread to absorb the custard.
- Bring to room temperature: When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and allow it to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes for even baking.
- Preheat oven and bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired for added sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- For added flavor, mix in a teaspoon of lemon zest with the custard mixture.
- Frozen blueberries can be used without thawing; they may release more juice, adding moisture.
- Serve with maple syrup or a drizzle of vanilla glaze for extra sweetness and richness.
