Description
This Overnight Blueberry French Toast casserole is a delightful make-ahead breakfast dish perfect for busy mornings or special occasions. Cubes of day-old bread are layered with cream cheese and fresh blueberries, soaked overnight in a rich custard made from eggs, milk, vanilla, and maple syrup, then baked to golden perfection. The dish offers a creamy, fruity, and comforting start to your day.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread Layer
- 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
Custard
- 12 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- â…“ cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the Casserole: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup.
- Layer the Bread and Cream Cheese: Arrange half of the bread cubes evenly in the baking dish, then top them with the cream cheese cubes to distribute the creamy texture throughout the dish.
- Add Blueberries and Remaining Bread: Sprinkle fresh blueberries evenly over the cream cheese, then cover with the remaining bread cubes to form the top layer of the dish.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until the mixture is smooth and well combined, forming the custard that soaks into the bread.
- Pour Custard Over Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread, cream cheese, and blueberries, ensuring all pieces soak up the custard mixture.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate it overnight (about 8-12 hours) allowing the bread to fully soak up the custard, resulting in a tender and flavorful casserole.
- Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to let it come closer to room temperature for even cooking.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Bake Covered: Bake the casserole covered with foil or a lid for 30 minutes to gently cook through without drying out.
- Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the cover and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes until the center is set and the surface is lightly browned, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Cool Slightly: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes to set before serving so it slices more cleanly.
- Serve Warm: Serve warm with your choice of toppings such as extra maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh berries for an indulgent and satisfying breakfast.
Notes
- Using day-old bread helps it absorb the custard better without becoming too mushy.
- Feel free to substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or ricotta for a slightly different flavor.
- This dish can be prepared the night before, making it ideal for brunch or holiday mornings.
- If you prefer, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for extra warmth and flavor.
- Ensure the baking dish is well greased or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Letting the dish sit at room temperature before baking helps ensure even cooking.
