If you’re dreaming of a breakfast that feels like a warm hug, the Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings together soft French bread cubes, luscious cream cheese, and bursts of fresh blueberries soaked in a sweet, spiced custard that bakes into a golden, melt-in-your-mouth delight. Perfect for weekends, brunches, or any time you want to feel a bit indulgent, this casserole combines familiar flavors with a cozy, comforting texture you’ll want to savor again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe is in its simplicity and balance. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s the creamy richness of the cream cheese, the sweet pop of blueberries, or the custard mix that ties everything together perfectly. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious masterpiece.
- French bread (1 loaf, about 14 oz): The sturdy yet soft base that soaks up the custard beautifully for that perfect texture.
- Fresh or frozen blueberries (1½ cups): These add juicy bursts of flavor and a lovely pop of color throughout the dish.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, cubed): Adds a luscious creaminess that melts into pockets of deliciousness.
- Large eggs (8): The essential binding agent for the custard, giving richness and structure.
- Whole milk (2½ cups): Helps create a smooth custard that seeps into every bread cube.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): Adds extra richness, making the casserole decadently creamy.
- Maple syrup or honey (â…“ cup): Natural sweetness to balance the tangy cream cheese and tart blueberries.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors with a gentle warmth.
- Cinnamon (½ teaspoon): Adds a cozy spice note that makes this casserole feel like a treat.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): A pinch to bring out all the flavors perfectly.
- Butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Drizzled on top for a golden, inviting crust.
- Powdered sugar and extra maple syrup: For serving, to add that final touch of sweetness and presentation charm.
How to Make Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Bread Layers
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks and the casserole comes out perfectly. Layer half of the cubed French bread at the bottom to create that sturdy foundation you need. Then, evenly scatter the cubed cream cheese and blueberries across the bread layer. Top this with the remaining bread cubes, setting the stage for the custard to seep in and work its magic.
Step 2: Mix the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until everything is fully blended and smooth. This custard mixture is the heart of the casserole, infusing every bite with creamy sweetness and gentle spice.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Pour the custard evenly over the layered bread, cream cheese, and blueberries. Press down gently on the bread cubes to help them absorb as much of the custard as possible. Then cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or even overnight. This chilling step lets the flavors meld and the bread soak deeply for a soft, custardy interior.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Before baking, drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of your casserole. Cover the dish with foil to prevent too much browning initially. Bake covered for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 25 to 30 minutes or until the casserole is beautifully golden and set in the center. The result should be a slightly crisp top with a delightfully creamy texture inside.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
After baking, give your casserole about 10 minutes to rest before serving. This allows everything to settle and makes slicing easier. Finish it off with a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup to add a perfect shine and sweetness to each slice.
How to Serve Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes elevate this dish effortlessly! Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy, delicate look and drizzle extra maple syrup for a sweet finish that ties all the flavors together. Fresh blueberries or a few mint leaves can add a fresh, colorful touch that makes presentation pop.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with light sides like crisp bacon or sausage for contrast, and a fresh fruit salad to keep things bright and refreshing. For a complete brunch spread, consider adding Greek yogurt or a citrusy smoothie to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins for a charming single-serve delight. You can also layer the casserole in clear glass dishes to showcase the beautiful layers of bread, cream cheese, and blueberries. Top with toasted nuts to add a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a perfect dish to prepare ahead of a busy morning and enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole after baking by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat slices in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or in a preheated 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through. If you prefer a crispier top, finishing in the oven is the way to go.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this casserole?
Absolutely! While French bread is classic, you can swap in brioche or challah for an even richer, softer texture. Just make sure to use sturdy bread that can soak up the custard without falling apart.
Do I need to thaw frozen blueberries before using them?
It’s best to use frozen blueberries straight from the freezer to prevent the color from bleeding and turning the custard purple. This helps maintain the casserole’s beautiful look and fresh flavor bursts.
Can I make this casserole vegan or dairy-free?
To make a vegan version, substitute dairy milk and cream with plant-based alternatives and use vegan cream cheese. Swap eggs with a flaxseed or chickpea flour substitute, but keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the casserole before baking?
Yes, chilling the casserole for at least 2 hours is important as it allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, resulting in a tender and custardy interior that is essential to this dish’s appeal.
How long does this casserole keep fresh after baking?
Once baked, it will stay fresh for about 3 days in the refrigerator when properly stored. Just cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a breakfast that feels like a warm, joyful celebration on a plate, the Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe is your answer. Its inviting layers of creamy cheese, juicy berries, and soft, custardy bread are simply irresistible. Give it a try and watch it become a cherished favorite in your kitchen, perfect for sharing with friends, family, or simply enjoying as a special treat all to yourself.
Print
Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A decadent Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole that combines the richness of cream cheese with sweet fresh blueberries layered between cubes of French bread, soaked in a custard mixture, and baked to golden perfection. This make-ahead breakfast casserole is perfect for brunches and special occasions, served with a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 loaf French bread (about 14 oz), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1½ cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
Custard Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 2½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- â…“ cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Topping and Serving
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Extra maple syrup for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish and Layer Bread: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the cubed French bread evenly in the bottom of the dish to create the base of the casserole.
- Add Cream Cheese and Blueberries: Evenly scatter the cubed cream cheese and fresh or frozen blueberries over the bread layer, distributing them well for bursts of flavor throughout.
- Top with Remaining Bread: Add the remaining cubes of French bread over the cream cheese and blueberries, forming the top layer of the casserole.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread, cream cheese, and blueberries. Gently press down on the top layer of bread to help it absorb the custard fully.
- Refrigerate: Cover the baking dish with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the custard to soak in thoroughly and flavors to meld.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare for Baking: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes to gently cook and set the custard without drying out the top.
- Bake Uncovered for Browning: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, until the casserole is golden brown on top and fully set in the center.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow it to firm up for easier slicing. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with extra maple syrup, if desired.
Notes
- You can swap in brioche or challah bread for a richer, more tender texture.
- If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them beforehand to prevent the juice from bleeding into the casserole.
- Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or oven for a quick breakfast or snack.
