Description
This Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole is a delightful make-ahead breakfast perfect for busy mornings or special brunches. It features layers of cubed French bread soaked in a rich custard made from eggs, milk, and warm spices, topped with fresh blueberries and a creamy sweet cream cheese layer. Left to soak overnight, the casserole results in a tender, flavorful dish that bakes to golden perfection, delivering a comforting and fruity start to your day.
Ingredients
Scale
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 1 pack (8 ounces) softened cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, split
French Toast Casserole
- 2 loaves cubed French bread
- 2 cups milk
- 8 eggs
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 cups blueberries, divided
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and half of the vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Assemble the Bread Layer: Place the cubed French bread evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of the fresh blueberries over the bread cubes.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, 2 cups milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and blueberries, ensuring all the bread cubes are well soaked. Then, dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture across the top, gently swirling it in if desired.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8-12 hours or overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard and flavors.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of blueberries on top. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Serve Warm: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or extra fresh blueberries for a delightful finish.
Notes
- Use a sturdy bread like French bread or brioche for best texture.
- Soaking overnight helps develop flavor and ensures the casserole is perfectly moist.
- You can substitute milk with half-and-half or cream for a richer custard.
- For a nut-free version, ensure your cinnamon powder does not contain cross-contaminants.
- Blueberries can be substituted or combined with other fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for 2-3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
