Blueberry French Toast Casserole – Easy Brunch Recipe

Blueberry French Toast Casserole is an easy dish that makes brunch simple and tasty. It uses day old bread, a creamy egg custard, and fresh or frozen blueberries for bright flavor. You can mix it the night before, then bake it in the morning. That makes the day less busy and gives the bread time to soak up the custard. The top gets a golden, crumbly layer from a sweet butter streusel that adds texture you will love. This casserole feeds a group and travels well to a potluck or family meal.

You do not need fancy tools. A mixing bowl, whisk, pan, and a pastry cutter or fork for the topping are enough. The recipe works with brioche, challah, or any soft bread that soaks well. Swap in milk or cream to change richness and add lemon zest for a fresh lift. The result is warm, soft bread with pockets of juicy berries and a crisp top. Serve it with yogurt, fruit, or a light dusting of powdered sugar for a gentle finish. It comes together in under an hour if you do not soak overnight, and it warms the kitchen with a sweet, homey aroma and simple joy.

Why You’ll Love This Blueberry French Toast Casserole – Easy Brunch Recipe

This casserole mixes soft bread and a creamy egg custard with bright blueberries for a tasty, balanced dish. It feeds many people and fits a slow morning or a quick weeknight bake. You can make it the night before and bake in the morning for an easy host move. The sweet, crumb topping gives a nice crunch that contrasts the soft inside. The recipe lets you change milk or add lemon zest to tweak the flavor. It is forgiving and easy to scale up or down, so you can make it for a small family or a larger group easily.

How to Make Blueberry French Toast Casserole – Easy Brunch Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 8 cups day-old bread cubes (preferably brioche or challah)
• 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 4 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• Optional: ½ tsp ground nutmeg or ¼ cup chopped nuts

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray. Arrange bread cubes evenly in the pan, ensuring they are spread out for even custard absorption. Scatter blueberries over the top and lightly sprinkle with lemon zest if using.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined, ensuring no lumps remain. The custard should be well-incorporated for a creamy, uniform texture in the casserole.
3. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and blueberries, pressing gently with a spatula so the bread absorbs the custard. If preparing as an Overnight Blueberry French Toast, cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and bread to soak thoroughly.
4. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and cubed cold butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the soaked bread and blueberries, creating a sweet, crunchy topping.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the topping is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. For Frozen French Toast Casserole, allow to thaw overnight in the fridge before baking and increase baking time slightly.
6. Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the custard firm up slightly and makes slicing easier.

How to Serve Blueberry French Toast Casserole – Easy Brunch Recipe

Serve warm in squares or scoops. Add a spoonful of plain or vanilla yogurt and extra fresh berries for color. A light dusting of powdered sugar makes it look special. You can also offer a bowl of warm fruit compote or a side of whipped cream if you like richer options. Use a spatula to lift neat pieces from the baking dish. Let guests add extra lemon zest or a few chopped nuts for texture.

How to Store Blueberry French Toast Casserole – Easy Brunch Recipe

Cover leftovers and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat single portions in the microwave for about 45 to 60 seconds, or warm slices in a 325°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes until heated through. You can freeze portions wrapped well in foil or in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips for the Best Blueberry French Toast Casserole – Easy Brunch Recipe

• Use day old bread so it soaks up the custard but does not fall apart.
• If you use frozen blueberries, toss them in a little flour to reduce running.
• Let it soak at least one hour, or overnight for the best texture.
• Keep the butter cold when making the crumb topping for a flakier finish.
• Check the center with a knife; it should come out clean when done.

Recipe Variations (if any)

• Use strawberries or mixed berries in place of blueberries for a different berry mix.
• Swap half the whole milk for extra cream for a richer custard.
• Stir in a handful of chocolate chips with the berries for a sweeter twist.
• Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts to the topping for more crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Bake the next morning for fresh, warm casserole.

Q: Can I use a different bread?
A: Yes. Brioche or challah work best, but challah, French bread, or even sandwich bread will work. Use bread that will hold up to soaking.

Q: Do I need to thaw frozen berries?
A: No. You can use them frozen. Tossing them in a little flour helps stop the juice from coloring the whole casserole.

Q: How do I know when it is done?
A: The top should be golden and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean. The custard will also feel set.

Conclusion

For more ideas and a similar take on this dish, see this detailed Blueberry French Toast Casserole recipe from Sally’s Baking at Blueberry French Toast Casserole – Sally’s Baking. You can also find another great version with tips and photos at Mix & Match Mama here: Blueberry French Toast Casserole – Mix & Match Mama.

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