Description
This Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole is a delightful make-ahead breakfast dish that combines day-old French bread cubes soaked in a rich custard of eggs, milk, and cream, layered with fresh or frozen blueberries, and baked to golden perfection. It’s perfect for brunch or a cozy breakfast, offering a sweet and satisfying start to your day.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Fruit
- 1 loaf day-old French bread cut into 1-inch cubes (about 10 to 12 cups)
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Custard Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For Serving (Optional)
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking during baking.
- Layer Bread and Blueberries: Spread half of the bread cubes evenly in the dish and sprinkle half of the blueberries over them. Add the remaining bread cubes on top and finish by sprinkling the rest of the blueberries.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, salt, and melted butter until fully combined and smooth.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and blueberries, pressing down gently to ensure all bread pieces absorb the liquid thoroughly.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and the bread to soak properly.
- Preheat and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator while the oven heats. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness.
Notes
- For added texture and flavor, sprinkle 1/3 cup chopped pecans or sliced almonds on top before baking.
- If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them to prevent excess moisture from making the casserole soggy.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently for later meals.
