Blueberry & Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole

A Blueberry & Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is the ultimate breakfast or brunch dish, blending the comforting flavors of sweet blueberries, creamy cheese, and soft bread in a delightful baked casserole. Perfect for special occasions or weekend indulgence, this recipe is simple to prepare and yields a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 loaf of French bread, cubed (about 10 cups)
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

For the Streusel Topping:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Optional:

• Maple syrup or powdered sugar for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the cubed bread evenly in the dish.
2. Scatter half of the cream cheese cubes and half of the blueberries over the bread layer.
3. Repeat with the remaining bread, cream cheese, and blueberries.

Step 2: Mix the Egg Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
2. Pour the mixture evenly over the bread layers, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold butter cubes and use a fork or your fingers to combine until crumbly.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
2. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the casserole.
3. Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is set in the center.

Step 5: Serve

1. Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving.
2. Top with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: This casserole is best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven. Pair it with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a cup of coffee for a complete meal.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 300°F for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, frozen blueberries work perfectly for this recipe. No need to thaw them; just add them directly to the casserole.

2. Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?

Mascarpone or ricotta cheese can be used as a substitute, though the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

3. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free bread and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

4. Can I prepare the casserole in advance?

Absolutely! Assembling it the night before and refrigerating it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just bake it fresh in the morning.

Print