Description
This Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole is a delightful make-ahead breakfast that combines fluffy French bread cubes soaked in a rich custard with fresh blueberries. Baked to golden perfection, it offers a perfect balance of sweet and creamy flavors, making it an ideal dish for brunch or a special breakfast gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 10 to 12 cups)
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Optional for Serving
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Layer the Bread and Blueberries: Spread half of the cubed bread evenly in the dish, then sprinkle half of the blueberries over the bread. Add the remaining bread cubes and top with the rest of the blueberries, creating layers for even distribution.
- Make the Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and melted butter until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and blueberries. Press down gently to ensure all bread pieces absorb the custard.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the bread to soak thoroughly.
- Bring to Room Temperature: When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes to even out cooking.
- Preheat 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 lightly golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, and optionally drizzle with maple syrup.
Notes
- For extra sweetness, drizzle maple syrup over the casserole before serving.
- Add a simple streusel topping made with flour, brown sugar, and butter before baking for added texture and flavor.
- If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them beforehand to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
