Best Blueberry French Toast Casserole: Easy Breakfast Recipe. This isn’t just any breakfast; it’s the kind that makes weekend mornings feel a little brighter, a little cozier. It’s the Best Blueberry French Toast Casserole: Easy Breakfast Recipe that turns an ordinary morning into a celebration. I remember making this for my family one Sunday, and the aroma alone had everyone out of bed before the coffee was even brewed!
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This recipe is inspired by those lazy weekend brunches we all crave. The combination of sweet blueberries, custardy French toast, and a hint of cinnamon is simply irresistible. It’s a dish that brings people together, and the leftovers (if there are any!) are just as delicious the next day. What I love most is how simple it is to throw together, making it perfect for both planned gatherings and spontaneous family breakfasts.
Why You Will Love This Best Blueberry French Toast Casserole: Easy Breakfast Recipe Recipe
What’s not to love about a warm, comforting casserole that practically screams weekend relaxation? This recipe is a game changer because it requires minimal effort and yields maximum flavor. The prep happens the night before, so you can simply pop it into the oven in the morning. No standing over a hot stove flipping individual slices of French toast!
This Best Blueberry French Toast Casserole: Easy Breakfast Recipe delivers a delightful combination of textures and tastes. The bread is soft and soaked in a rich, creamy custard, while the blueberries burst with juicy sweetness. And let’s be honest, the aroma of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through the house as it bakes is pure bliss. Perfect for those who follow us on Pinterest, it adds something truly special to your breakfast repertoire. Follow us on Pinterest
This recipe holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of family gatherings and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. It’s also incredibly versatile; you can easily customize it with different fruits, spices, or even a streusel topping if you’re feeling fancy. But more than anything, it represents the simple pleasure of good food and good company.
Ingredients Needed for This Best Blueberry French Toast Casserole: Easy Breakfast Recipe Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing breakfast casserole:
- Bread: 1 loaf (about 1 pound) of challah, brioche, or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Blueberries: 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- Eggs: 8 large eggs
- Milk: 2 cups whole milk
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup heavy cream
- Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted, for greasing the dish
How to Make This Best Blueberry French Toast Casserole: Easy Breakfast Recipe Recipe
Here’s how to create this family breakfast:
- 1. Prepare pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with melted butter. This is really important to prevent sticking!
- 2. Bread prep: Spread the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the blueberries over the bread cubes.
- 3. Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved.
- 4. Soak and store: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and blueberries. Gently press down on the bread to ensure it’s fully soaked. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. Overnight soaking is so highly recommended.
- 5. Bake and serve: Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and the custard is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
- 6. Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm and Enjoy this Best Blueberry French Toast Casserole! For a simpler version, consider this Best Blueberry French Toast Casserole.
How to Serve This Best Blueberry French Toast Casserole: Easy Breakfast Recipe Recipe
This casserole is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your serving experience:
- Toppings: Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, or add a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries are also a beautiful and tasty addition.
- Sides: Serve alongside crispy bacon, breakfast sausage, or a fresh fruit salad for a well-rounded meal. Or, if you prefer casseroles for ease of serving, consider this Easy Sausage And Egg Casserole.
- Drinks: Pair it with a cup of hot coffee, tea, or a refreshing glass of orange juice. Mimosas are always a festive option for brunch!
- Plating: Cut the casserole into squares and arrange them neatly on individual plates. Garnish with fresh mint or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a polished look.
How to Store This Best Blueberry French Toast Casserole: Easy Breakfast Recipe Recipe
Proper storage ensures that leftovers are just as delicious as the first serving:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, cut the casserole into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat refrigerated casserole, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crisp. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick reheat. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make This Best Blueberry French Toast Casserole: Easy Breakfast Recipe Recipe
Here are some tips to ensure baking success and to help you customize the recipe to your liking:
- Bread Choice: Experiment with different types of bread to find your favorite. Challah and brioche are both rich and flavorful, but French bread works well too. Stale bread is actually ideal, as it soaks up the custard better.
- Blueberry Boost: If you want an even more intense blueberry flavor, try adding a tablespoon of blueberry jam or preserves to the custard mixture.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard mixture for a warm, aromatic twist. Consider this Strawberry Muffin Recipe Easy if you want more baking inspiration.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, over the casserole before baking for added texture and flavor.
Helpful Notes for This Best Blueberry French Toast Casserole: Easy Breakfast Recipe Recipe
Here are some things worth knowing about this Best Blueberry French Toast Casserole:
- Custard Consistency: Don’t be alarmed if the custard looks a bit thin when you first mix it. The bread will absorb the liquid as it soaks overnight, resulting in a perfectly creamy and set casserole.
- Baking Time: Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the casserole and adjust accordingly. The casserole is done when it’s golden brown, the custard is set, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Bread Cube Size: Aim for 1 inch cubes. Too big, they won’t absorb enough custard. Too small, and then may become soggy.
Variation of This Best Blueberry French Toast Casserole: Easy Breakfast Recipe Recipe
Here are other versions of this amazing cake:
- Berry Mix: Swap out the blueberries for a mix of raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries for a colorful and flavorful twist.
- Apple Cinnamon: Replace the blueberries with diced apples and increase the cinnamon to 2 teaspoons for a warm, comforting fall-inspired casserole.
- Chocolate Chip: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the bread and custard mixture for a decadent and indulgent treat. Use any kind of chocolate or maybe a bit of ganache!
How do you keep french toast casserole from being soggy?
To prevent a soggy casserole, ensure the bread is slightly stale or dried out before assembling. This allows it to absorb the custard better without becoming overly saturated. Also, avoid over-soaking the bread.
Can I make the blueberry french toast casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard. Just add the topping right before baking for the best results.
What kind of bread is best for french toast casserole?
Brioche or challah bread are excellent choices for french toast casserole. These breads have a rich flavor and texture that hold up well to the custard. However, any sturdy bread like french bread will also work.
Can I use frozen blueberries in the french toast casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. There is no need to thaw the blueberries before adding them to the casserole. Just toss them with a little flour to help prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
How long does blueberry french toast casserole last at room temp?
Blueberry french toast casserole should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. After baking, it is best to refrigerate any leftovers promptly to ensure its freshness and safety.
