Description
This Blueberry French Toast Casserole Delight is a luscious and comforting breakfast treat perfect for weekends or special occasions. Cubes of brioche or French bread are soaked overnight in a rich custard of eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla, and cinnamon, then baked to golden perfection with bursts of fresh blueberries throughout. The casserole is finished with a light dusting of powdered sugar, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and texture for a delightful morning feast.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread & Fruit
- 1 loaf brioche or French bread, cubed
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Garnish
- Powdered sugar for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving later.
- Layer the bread and blueberries: Place half of the cubed bread evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish. Sprinkle half of the blueberries over this layer. Repeat by adding the remaining bread cubes and top with the rest of the blueberries.
- Mix the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Soak the bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and blueberries, making sure every piece is soaked well. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Refrigerate overnight: Place the covered casserole dish in the refrigerator and allow it to soak overnight. This helps the bread absorb the custard fully, enhancing the texture and flavor.
- Preheat the oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the casserole: Remove the cover and bake the casserole uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set and firm to the touch.
- Rest and garnish: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes after baking to firm up. Optionally, dust the top with powdered sugar before serving for a decorative and sweet finish.
Notes
- Using brioche or French bread enhances the texture and flavor due to its richness and ability to soak custard well.
- Frozen blueberries can be used if fresh are out of season; no need to thaw before adding.
- For added texture and flavor, consider stirring nuts like pecans or walnuts into the layers.
- The casserole can be assembled the night before for convenience and better custard absorption.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the maple syrup to 1/4 cup.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
