Overnight Blueberry French Toast

This Overnight Blueberry French Toast is a delightful breakfast casserole that combines the classic flavors of French toast with the sweetness of fresh blueberries. Prepared the night before, it allows the bread to soak up a rich custard, resulting in a soft, flavorful dish that's perfect for leisurely mornings or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Make-Ahead Convenience: Assemble the casserole the night before, so all you need to do in the morning is bake it.
• Bursting with Blueberries: Fresh blueberries add natural sweetness and a pop of color.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream.

Ingredients

• 12 slices day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 12 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup maple syrup

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Casserole:

   • Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
   • Arrange half of the bread cubes in the dish and top with cream cheese cubes.
   • Sprinkle blueberries over the cream cheese, then top with the remaining bread cubes.

2. Make the Custard:

   • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until well combined.
   • Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and blueberries.

3. Refrigerate:

   • Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight, allowing the bread to soak up the custard.

4. Bake:

   • Remove the casserole from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking.
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Bake the casserole, covered, for 30 minutes.
   • Uncover and continue baking until the center is firm and the surface is lightly browned, about 25 to 30 minutes.

5. Serve:

   • Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.
   • Serve warm with your choice of toppings.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Additional Time: 8 hours 30 minutes (overnight refrigeration)
• Total Time: 9 hours 40 minutes

Variations

• Berry Mix: Substitute blueberries with raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries.
• Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture.
• Spiced Flavor: Incorporate a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg into the custard mixture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen blueberries can be used. There's no need to thaw them before adding to the casserole.

Can I prepare this casserole without refrigeration?

Refrigerating overnight allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, resulting in a softer texture. If you skip this step, the casserole may be firmer.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, challah, brioche, or sourdough bread are excellent alternatives. Ensure the bread is slightly stale for optimal absorption of the custard.

Is it necessary to cover the casserole while baking?

Covering the casserole during the initial baking period helps it cook evenly. Uncovering it towards the end allows the top to brown.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the bread with a gluten-free variety to make the casserole gluten-free.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream cheese and milk alternatives to accommodate a dairy-free diet.

Can I add a streusel topping?

Yes, a streusel topping made from butter, brown sugar, and flour can be added before baking for extra sweetness and crunch.

How do I prevent the casserole from being soggy?

Using slightly stale bread helps prevent sogginess, as it absorbs the custard without becoming too mushy.

Can I freeze the casserole before baking?

Yes, assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Can I make individual servings instead of a large casserole?

Yes, divide the bread and custard mixture into individual ramekins and bake until set, adjusting the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

Overnight Blueberry French Toast is a versatile and convenient dish that combines the comforting flavors of French toast with the sweetness of blueberries. Its make-ahead nature makes it perfect for busy mornings or special occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or spices to suit your taste.

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Overnight Blueberry French Toast

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• Author: Emmily
• Total Time: 9 hours 40 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Overnight Blueberry French Toast is the ultimate breakfast casserole that combines the comforting richness of French toast with the sweetness of fresh blueberries. Made the night before, it offers a convenient, make-ahead solution for busy mornings or special occasions. Baked to golden perfection, this dish delivers a fluffy, custardy texture with bursts of fresh blueberries. Top it with syrup, powdered sugar, or whipped cream for an extra indulgent breakfast treat.

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Ingredients

• 12 slices day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 12 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup maple syrup

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Instructions

• Prepare the Casserole:

  • Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Arrange half of the bread cubes in the dish and top with cream cheese cubes.
  • Sprinkle blueberries over the cream cheese, then top with the remaining bread cubes.

• Make the Custard:

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until well combined.
  • Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and blueberries.

• Refrigerate:

  • Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight, allowing the bread to soak up the custard.

• Bake:

  • Remove the casserole from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Bake the casserole, covered, for 30 minutes.
  • Uncover and continue baking for another 25 to 30 minutes until the center is firm and the surface is lightly browned.

• Serve:

  • Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
  • Serve warm with your choice of toppings like maple syrup or whipped cream.

Notes

• Berry Mix: Feel free to swap out blueberries for raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries.
• Nutty Option: Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
• Spiced Flavor: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg in the custard can add a warm, spiced twist.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American