Description
This Blueberry French Toast Casserole Delight is a scrumptious, make-ahead breakfast perfect for family gatherings or weekend brunch. Layers of tender brioche bread and juicy blueberries soak in a creamy custard flavored with vanilla and cinnamon, baked to golden perfection. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar for a delightful morning treat.
Ingredients
Scale
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 place half of the cubed bread evenly in the dish.
- Layer with blueberries: Sprinkle half of the fresh or frozen blueberries evenly over the bread layer, then add the remaining bread and top with the rest of the blueberries.
- Make custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until thoroughly combined and smooth.
- Combine custard and bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and blueberries, ensuring the liquid soaks through all the bread pieces.
- Chill overnight: Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard mixture and develop flavor and texture.
- Preheat oven: The next day, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
- Bake the casserole: Uncover the dish and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the casserole is firm in the center and golden brown on top.
- Rest and serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes after baking to set, then optionally dust with powdered sugar before serving for added sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- Using brioche bread gives a richer, more tender texture; French bread can be used for a slightly sturdier casserole.
- Frozen blueberries work just as well as fresh; no need to thaw before layering.
- Refrigerating overnight isn’t mandatory but improves flavor and texture by allowing the custard to soak fully into the bread.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and heavy cream with almond or oat milk and use egg replacer if desired.
- This casserole can be reheated gently in the oven or microwave for leftovers.
- Optional toppings include fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of additional maple syrup.
