Blueberry & Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole

This Blueberry & Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is a delightful, make-ahead breakfast that combines sweet blueberries, creamy cheese, and soft, custardy bread. Perfect for brunch gatherings, holiday mornings, or a special weekend treat, this dish is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare it the night before and simply bake in the morning.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for family breakfasts or brunch with friends.
• Balanced Sweetness – The combination of blueberries and cream cheese creates a rich yet fresh flavor.
• Minimal Effort – Simple ingredients and easy assembly make this a stress-free dish.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bread (French bread or brioche works best)
• Cream cheese
• Fresh or frozen blueberries
• Eggs
• Milk
• Heavy cream
• Maple syrup or honey
• Vanilla extract
• Cinnamon
• Sugar
• Butter

Directions

1. Prepare the Bread: Cut the bread into cubes and spread half of them in a greased baking dish.
2. Add Cream Cheese and Blueberries: Scatter cream cheese cubes and blueberries over the bread. Top with the remaining bread cubes.
3. Make the Custard: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and sugar.
4. Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently so it absorbs the liquid.
5. Chill (Optional): Cover and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor and texture.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40-45 minutes, until golden and set.
7. Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes, then drizzle with maple syrup or dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time (Optional): 6-8 hours (overnight)
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Lemon Zest Twist: Add fresh lemon zest to the custard for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top for added texture.
• Chocolate Indulgence: Mix in chocolate chips for a sweeter version.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free milk and cream cheese substitutes.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or reheat in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

How do I prevent my casserole from being soggy?

Make sure to use slightly stale bread, and don’t oversaturate it with custard.

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, but don’t thaw them beforehand to prevent excess moisture.

Do I have to let it chill overnight?

No, but chilling allows the flavors to meld and results in a better texture.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use your favorite gluten-free bread.

What type of bread works best?

Brioche, challah, or French bread are ideal for their ability to absorb the custard.

Can I make this without cream cheese?

Yes, but the texture will be different. You can substitute with Greek yogurt or omit it entirely.

How do I make this casserole less sweet?

Reduce the sugar or use unsweetened milk and cream.

What toppings go well with this dish?

Powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream.

Can I add nuts to this casserole?

Yes! Walnuts, pecans, or almonds add a nice crunch.

How do I know when it’s fully cooked?

The top should be golden brown, and the center should be set. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Conclusion

This Blueberry & Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is a simple yet elegant dish, perfect for any breakfast or brunch occasion. Whether you prepare it ahead or bake it fresh, it’s guaranteed to impress with its rich, creamy texture and fruity sweetness. Try it for your next gathering or special morning treat!

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