Quick Blueberry French Toast Casserole

why make this recipe

Quick Blueberry French Toast Casserole is an easy and delicious dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. It combines soft bread, creamy egg custard, and juicy blueberries into a delightful bake. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also feeds a crowd, making it great for family gatherings or special occasions. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen.

how to make Quick Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of bread (preferably brioche or challah)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 cups fresh blueberries
• Powdered sugar (for serving, optional)
• Maple syrup (for serving, optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cut the bread into cubes and place half of the cubes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
4. Pour half of the egg mixture over the bread cubes in the dish.
5. Sprinkle the blueberries over the bread and then add the remaining bread cubes on top.
6. Pour the rest of the egg mixture over everything, ensuring it soaks in.
7. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to soak up the mixture.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden and a knife inserted comes out clean.
9. Allow it to cool slightly, dust with powdered sugar, and serve warm with maple syrup.

how to serve Quick Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Serve your Quick Blueberry French Toast Casserole warm. You can dust it with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. Don’t forget to offer maple syrup on the side for drizzling. It pairs well with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.

how to store Quick Blueberry French Toast Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through before serving again.

tips to make Quick Blueberry French Toast Casserole

• For best results, use day-old bread as it absorbs the egg mixture better.
• Feel free to add other fruits like strawberries or raspberries along with blueberries for more flavor.
• You can prepare the casserole the night before and let it soak in the fridge overnight. Just bake it in the morning for a quick breakfast.

variation

You can swap blueberries for other berries or even add nuts for some crunch. A sprinkle of chocolate chips or a layer of cream cheese can also add a delicious twist to this recipe.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the casserole.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free bread substitute to make it gluten-free.

How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. If it’s too jiggly, it needs more time in the oven.

Quick Blueberry French Toast Casserole

A delightful make-ahead breakfast, this Quick Blueberry French Toast Casserole combines soft bread, fresh blueberries, and a sweet custard, baked to golden perfection. It's an ideal choice for brunches or holiday mornings, offering convenience and comforting flavors.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 8 people

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Casserole Base

• 1 loaf (16 oz) day-old French bread or challah cut into 1-inch cubes
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar packed
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries not thawed

Topping

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter cut into small pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Large bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Method

 

Preparation

1. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish, then arrange the bread cubes evenly in the pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly soaked, and then sprinkle the blueberries over the top.
4. For the topping, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl, then cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Evenly sprinkle the prepared topping over the blueberry French toast casserole.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard.

Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), then bake the casserole uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until it's golden brown and set in the center.
2. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving, optionally topped with powdered sugar or maple syrup.

Notes

For best results, allow the casserole to soak overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor absorption and a richer texture.