Description
This Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole is a delicious and convenient breakfast option, perfect for preparing ahead of time. Cubed French bread is soaked in a creamy mixture of eggs, milk, and spices, layered with fresh blueberries and cream cheese, then baked to golden perfection. It’s a delightful combination of sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors, ideal for weekend brunch or special mornings.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cream Cheese Mixture
- 1 pack (8 ounces) softened cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, split
For the French Toast Casserole
- 2 loaves cubed French bread
- 2 cups milk
- 8 eggs
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 cups blueberries, divided
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and half of the vanilla extract (1/2 tablespoon). Mix until well combined and creamy. Set aside.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the 8 eggs, 2 cups of milk, cinnamon powder, nutmeg, and the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of vanilla extract until thoroughly blended.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, spread half of the cubed French bread evenly. Sprinkle half of the blueberries over the bread. Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the layer, gently spreading. Next, add the remaining cubed bread and the rest of the blueberries on top.
- Pour the Egg Mixture: Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the entire casserole, pressing down gently to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the casserole with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the bread to soak.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or serve with maple syrup for added sweetness.
Notes
- Use day-old or slightly stale French bread for best absorption of the custard mixture.
- You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone for a richer flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives.
- Fresh or frozen blueberries can be used, but thaw and drain frozen berries to avoid excess moisture.
- Adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, can add a crunchy texture.
