A close-up of blueberry French toast casserole, golden brown and topped with fresh blueberries and syrup.
Blueberry French toast casserole is a sweet and comforting breakfast dish that combines the richness of French toast with the delicious flavor of fresh blueberries. This casserole is easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy mornings or special occasions like brunch.
With layers of bread soaked in a custard-like mixture and fresh blueberries baked right into the dish, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Plus, the best part is that you can make it ahead of time and simply bake it in the morning.
Introduction
Blueberry French toast casserole takes the classic French toast and turns it into a comforting, easy-to-make casserole. The casserole is filled with layers of bread, blueberries, and a custard-like egg mixture that bakes into a soft and fluffy dish. It’s then topped with syrup for the perfect balance of sweetness.
This casserole can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning, making it perfect for brunch, holidays, or family gatherings. It’s a dish everyone will enjoy, and the best part is it’s both simple and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love Blueberry French Toast Casserole
- Fluffy and custard-like texture: The bread soaks up the custard mixture, creating a soft and fluffy texture.
- Sweet and fruity: The fresh blueberries add sweetness and a burst of flavor to the casserole.
- Make-ahead option: Prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
- Perfect for holidays and gatherings: Ideal for feeding a crowd, especially on weekends or special occasions.
- Deliciously versatile: Add other fruits like strawberries or raspberries, or top with whipped cream or nuts.
Ingredients for Blueberry French Toast Casserole
For the Casserole
- Bread (6 cups, cubed): Day-old bread works best for soaking in the custard mixture.
- Eggs (6 large): The base of the custard mixture.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Adds creaminess to the custard.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the custard mixture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds flavor to the custard.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth to the flavor.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness.
For the Topping
- Fresh blueberries (1 1/2 cups): The star of the dish, adding sweetness and flavor.
- Maple syrup (for serving): To drizzle over the casserole when serving.
Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe Step-by-Step
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour resting time)
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
- 1. Prepare the custard. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- 2. Layer the bread and blueberries. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer the cubed bread in the dish. Sprinkle the fresh blueberries on top of the bread.
- 3. Add the custard mixture. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and blueberries. Press the bread down to make sure it’s soaked in the custard.
- 4. Refrigerate overnight (optional). If you’re preparing this ahead of time, cover the casserole and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- 5. Bake the casserole. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the casserole for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- 6. Serve and enjoy. Drizzle with maple syrup and serve warm.
Reader Review: This casserole is perfect for brunch – so easy to make and absolutely delicious!
Tips for Perfect Blueberry French Toast Casserole
- Use day-old bread: Day-old bread soaks up the custard better and doesn’t get soggy.
- Press the bread down: Press the bread down into the custard to ensure it soaks in the mixture.
- Let it rest overnight: Letting the casserole rest in the fridge overnight gives it more time to soak up the custard.
Variations & Substitutions
- Add other fruits: Try adding strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries along with or in place of blueberries.
- Use different bread: Use brioche or challah for a richer, more decadent casserole.
- Vegan version: Use non-dairy milk, plant-based butter, and a flax egg for a dairy-free and egg-free version.
Make-Ahead & Freezing
- Make ahead: You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate overnight. Bake it in the morning.
- Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before baking. Assemble it and store it in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
- Reheat: Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- For brunch: Serve with a side of bacon, sausage, or fresh fruit.
- For dessert: Blueberry French toast casserole makes a great dessert for a special occasion.
- For gatherings: This casserole is perfect for holiday mornings or family get-togethers.
If you make this blueberry French toast casserole, let me know how it turned out! Did you add any special variations?