Best-Ever Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe

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If you are on the lookout for a breakfast treat that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Best-Ever Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining fluffy, custardy bread cubes soaked overnight in a luscious blend of eggs, milk, cream, and cinnamon, then topped with bursting fresh blueberries and a crunchy, buttery crumble, this dish is a harmonious mix of sweet, tangy, and comforting textures. It’s the kind of recipe that effortlessly turns an ordinary morning into a special occasion with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe is simple yet indispensable, working together to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make this casserole so irresistible. From the rich custard soak to the crisp crumble topping and the fresh blueberries, each component adds a unique touch that elevates the dish.

• 10 cups cubed bread (500 grams / 1 loaf): Use a bread with sturdy texture like challah or brioche for the best soak and fluffiness.
• 6 large eggs (300 grams): The eggs provide the essential custard base that holds the casserole together.
• 2 cups milk (454 grams): Adds creaminess and moisture to the custard soak.
• 1 cup heavy cream (227 grams): For richness and that heavenly silky mouthfeel.
• ½ cup brown sugar (107 grams): Brown sugar lends caramel notes and subtle sweetness.
• ¼ cup pancake syrup (78 grams): Adds sweetness and a hint of maple flavor; you can use your favorite syrup here.
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract (12 grams): A splash of vanilla brings warmth and depth to the custard.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (3 grams): Cinnamon spices the custard, creating that classic French toast flavor.
• Fresh blueberries (for topping, optional): Bursting with freshness and color, they brighten each bite.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (113 grams, melted): For the crumble topping, buttery and crisp.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour (70 grams): Creates the structure for a perfectly crumbly topping.
• ½ cup brown sugar (107 grams): Sweetens and caramelizes the crumble topping.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (3 grams): Infuses the crumble with spice and aroma.
• ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

How to Make Best-Ever Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by liberally spraying a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray. This step ensures the casserole bakes evenly without sticking, helping you serve every delicious morsel effortlessly.

Step 2: Add the Bread Cubes

Place your perfectly cubed bread into the prepared pan, spreading them evenly. This bread forms the delicious base that soaks up the custard mixture, forming that classic French toast texture everyone loves.

Step 3: Whisk the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs until smooth. Then add the milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, whisking continuously until fully blended. This rich custard is the heart of the dish, soaking the bread with heavenly flavor.

Step 4: Combine and Soak

Give your custard mixture a quick stir right before pouring it over the bread cubes to redistribute the cinnamon that tends to float. Pour the custard evenly over the bread, then use a spatula to gently push the bread down, ensuring every piece soaks up the mixture. Sprinkle fresh blueberries on top or fold them through the bread cubes for a delightful burst of tartness.

Step 5: Chill Overnight

Cover your baking pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or for at least 8 hours. This soaking period is essential to allow the bread to absorb all the custard, resulting in that melt-in-your-mouth consistency.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven and Prepare to Bake

Remove the casserole from the fridge as the oven heats to 350°F (175°C). Letting it come slightly to room temperature helps even baking and ensures the inside cooks through without drying out the top.

Step 7: Make the Crumble Topping

Mix the melted butter, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt together using a fork until crumbly. This topping adds a wonderful buttery crunch and a spiced sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the soft custard beneath.

Step 8: Bake with Care

Sprinkle your crumble evenly across the casserole, then cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes to lock in moisture, then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes. Your casserole should come out with a lightly toasted top and a perfectly set center.

Step 9: Time to Serve

Serve your Best-Ever Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe warm, topped with extra pancake syrup and fresh blueberries if desired. Each bite offers the perfect harmony of creamy custard, crunchy crumble, and juicy berries.

How to Serve Best-Ever Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh blueberries scattered on top add a jewel-like burst of color and natural sweetness. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup can also elevate the presentation and taste, making it look as amazing as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with crispy bacon or sausage for a savory contrast. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing option if you want to balance the richness and keep things fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch crowd, bake this casserole in smaller individual ramekins for personalized servings. You can also layer it with cream cheese or add lemon zest to the custard for a bright twist that surprises and delights your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole will keep its flavors well and can be enjoyed cold or reheated.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to retain a moist texture.

Reheating

Reheat portions gently in a microwave or oven at 325°F until warmed through. Covering with foil in the oven helps prevent the topping from burning while warming.

FAQs

Can I use any type of bread for the casserole?

While any bread works, a sturdy option like challah, brioche, or French bread is best because it soaks up the custard without falling apart, creating the perfect texture.

Is it necessary to soak the casserole overnight?

Yes, soaking overnight allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, which is essential for that custardy, fluffy texture that makes this the Best-Ever Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe.

Can I substitute the blueberries with other fruits?

Absolutely! Raspberries, strawberries, or even chopped apples work well, though blueberries offer a perfect balance of sweet and tart that complements the custard beautifully.

What can I do if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can replace heavy cream with additional whole milk or half-and-half, but keep in mind that the dish may be slightly less rich and creamy.

Can I prepare this casserole for a crowd or potluck?

Definitely! This recipe is perfect for feeding many people and can be made ahead, refrigerated, or frozen, making it a stress-free choice for gatherings.

Final Thoughts

This Best-Ever Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe is a delightful way to bring warmth, sweetness, and a touch of elegance to any morning. Whether you’re treating yourself on a weekend or impressing friends and family, this recipe never fails to deliver unforgettable comfort and joy. Give it a try and watch how it becomes a beloved favorite in your breakfast rotation!

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