Description
This Blueberry French Toast Casserole is the perfect make-ahead breakfast for busy mornings, weekend brunches, or special occasions. It’s loaded with juicy blueberries, soft bread soaked in a rich custard, and topped with a crunchy, buttery streusel. Drizzle it with maple syrup, and you’ve got a dish that will impress your family and guests alike!
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Ingredients
Scale
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf French bread or brioche (about 8 cups, cubed)
- 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole milk or half-and-half for richness)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Streusel Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup cold butter (cubed)
Optional Garnishes:
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh mint for a pop of color
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Bread and Blueberries
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Spread the cubed bread evenly in the dish and sprinkle with fresh or frozen blueberries.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes, pressing the bread down gently to soak up the liquid.
Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the casserole.
Step 4: Refrigerate or Bake
- For Make-Ahead: Cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- For Immediate Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and the center is set.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, and garnish with fresh blueberries or mint if desired.
Notes
- Use Stale Bread: Slightly dry bread soaks up the custard better without becoming soggy.
- Fresh or Frozen Berries: Both work great—no need to thaw frozen blueberries before using.
- Customize It: Add a cream cheese layer between the bread cubes or swap blueberries for raspberries or strawberries.
- Don’t Skip the Streusel: It adds a buttery, crunchy texture that’s irresistible.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Cuisine: American