Description

This Overnight Blueberry French Toast casserole is a delicious and effortless breakfast recipe perfect for busy mornings. Cubes of day-old bread are layered with cream cheese and fresh blueberries, then soaked overnight in a rich custard of eggs, milk, vanilla, and maple syrup. Baked to golden perfection, this dish delivers a creamy, fruity, and satisfying start to your day with minimal morning prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Main 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

Custard Mixture

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 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Layer Bread and Cream Cheese: Arrange half of the cubed bread evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish, then scatter the cream cheese cubes over the bread layer.
Add Blueberries and Remaining Bread: Sprinkle the fresh blueberries over the cream cheese layer, then top with the remaining bread cubes, creating a layered casserole.
Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until fully combined to create a rich, flavorful custard.
Soak the Casserole: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and blueberries, making sure all pieces are well coated. Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
Prepare to Bake: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off, which helps it cook evenly.
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole.
Bake Covered: Cover the dish and bake the casserole for 30 minutes to allow it to cook gently and set.
Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the cover and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes until the center is firm and the surface is lightly browned and golden.
Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly to set fully, then serve warm topped with extra maple syrup or whipped cream as desired.

Notes

Using day-old bread helps the cubes hold up better and absorb the custard mixture without becoming too soggy.
Cream cheese adds a rich, creamy texture and tangy flavor to the casserole.
Feel free to substitute fresh blueberries with frozen ones, but do not thaw before layering to avoid excess moisture.
Maple syrup enhances the natural sweetness; adjust the amount to taste or swap with honey if preferred.
This casserole can be prepared a day ahead, making it an ideal recipe for holidays or special breakfast gatherings.
Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated individually for up to 3 days.