Description
This Overnight Blueberry French Toast casserole is a delightful and easy breakfast recipe perfect for busy mornings. Day-old bread cubes are layered with cream cheese and fresh blueberries, then soaked overnight in a cinnamon-spiced custard mixture and baked to golden perfection. The creamy, fruity layers create a rich, comforting dish that serves a crowd and can be topped with maple syrup or whipped cream for an extra special treat.
Ingredients
Scale
French Toast Base
- 12 slices day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
Custard Mixture
- 12 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- â…“ cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the Casserole: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Layer the Bread and Cream Cheese: Arrange half of the bread cubes evenly in the baking dish, then scatter the cream cheese cubes over the bread layer.
- Add Blueberries and Top with Bread: Sprinkle fresh blueberries evenly over the cream cheese, then cover with the remaining bread cubes, creating a layered effect.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour Custard Over Bread: Evenly pour the custard mixture over the layered bread, cream cheese, and blueberries, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly and refrigerate overnight (about 8-9 hours) to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard.
- Remove from Refrigerator: Take the casserole out of the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to come to room temperature for even cooking.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes to heat through without drying.
- Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes until the center is set and the top is lightly browned and slightly crisp.
- Cool Slightly and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes after baking to set before cutting into portions.
- Serve: Serve warm topped with maple syrup, whipped cream, or your favorite toppings for a delicious breakfast treat.
Notes
- Using day-old bread helps the cubes absorb the custard better without becoming too soggy.
- Cream cheese adds a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the blueberries beautifully.
- Feel free to substitute blueberries with other fresh or frozen berries.
- Make sure to cover the casserole while baking initially to keep it moist.
- Letting the dish sit at room temperature before baking prevents uneven cooking.
- This casserole reheats well; warm leftovers in the oven or microwave.
