Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole

There’s something incredibly comforting about the first bite of Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole. I remember the mornings when I’d wake up to the sweet aroma of blueberries and fresh bread wafting through the house. It always felt like a warm hug, especially on chilly weekends when we’d linger around the breakfast table. This dish has a special place in my heart; it combines my love for breakfast with the delightful taste of juicy blueberries. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for brunch gatherings with family and friends or a cozy morning at home.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
25 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
300 kcal
Protein:
8g g
Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
12g g
Tools Used:
9 x 11 Baking Dish, Spray oil, Sharp knife, Cutting board, Medium sized mixing bowl, Whisk

The Best Thing About This Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole

It’s a Crowd-Pleaser

Whenever I serve Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole, the smiles around the table are priceless. This dish not only looks beautiful, but it also caters to everyone’s taste buds. The combination of fluffy bread and sweet blueberries creates a harmony that is hard to resist.

Make-Ahead Convenience

One of my favorite aspects of this casserole is how it can be prepared the night before. You can assemble everything, pop it in the fridge, and just bake it the next morning. Imagine waking up to the smell of freshly baked breakfast without the hassle of cooking!

Customizable Ingredients

The beauty of Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole lies in its versatility. You can easily swap out blueberries for your favorite fruits or even add nuts for an extra crunch. This flexibility allows for endless variations, ensuring everyone gets their favorite flavor!

Perfectly Satisfying

This dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nourishment. The buttery crust and tender interior offer a satisfying texture, while the blueberries burst with flavor. It’s the ultimate comfort food that feels like a treat any day of the week.

Easy to Serve

Serving Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole is an absolute breeze. Just cut it into squares and serve with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar. It’s a visually appealing dish that adds a touch of elegance to any table.

What to Gather for Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the best Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole. Each component serves a purpose, creating layers of flavor and texture that make this dish exceptional. Let’s dive into the essentials you’ll need to bring this delicious breakfast to life!

  • 1 loaf chewy bread – like sourdough or French; this can be day-old and should be about a pound/16 ounces.
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 cups blueberries
  • 3 tablespoons softened butter
  • ¼ cup flour
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup rolled oats
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt

How to Assemble Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Now that you have all your ingredients laid out, it’s time to bring this Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole together! Each step is simple and straightforward. Let’s get started!

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This ensures that the casserole bakes evenly, giving you that perfect golden brown crust.

  2. Cut the butter for the streusel topping into small pieces and leave it on the counter to soften. This way, it will blend easily with the dry ingredients later.

  3. Spray a 9 x 11 casserole dish with some spray oil. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleaning easier!

  4. In a medium-sized bowl, crack open the eggs and mix them with a whisk until they’re well blended. Add the milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt before whisking again until combined.

  5. Slice the bread into 1-inch cubes. You should have about 8 to 10 cups of bread when you’re done slicing. This size is perfect for soaking up the custard.

  6. Add half of the bread cubes to the bottom of the casserole dish. Spread half of the blueberries over the bread to create a delicious layer.

  7. Add the remaining bread on top of the blueberries. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down any pieces that stick up above the custard. This ensures every bite is flavorful.

  8. Top the casserole with the rest of the blueberries. Let the assembled dish sit for at least 30 minutes, or even better, store it in the fridge overnight.

  9. In a medium-sized bowl, add the softened butter, flour, brown sugar, oats, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Using a fork or pastry cutter, mix until the mixture resembles wet sand.

  10. If you prepped the casserole the night before, keep the streusel topping separate until morning. If you’re baking it right away, sprinkle the streusel on top of the casserole.

  11. Bake for 23 to 25 minutes until the casserole is gooey but not raw. You should see the mixture bubbling. Serve with a generous drizzle of maple syrup and enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Stale Bread Works Best: Using day-old bread or stale pieces is ideal, as they absorb the custard better without falling apart.
  • Customize Your Fruits: Feel free to mix in other fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, or even bananas for added flavor.
  • Resting Time is Key: Letting the casserole sit allows the bread to soak up the custard fully, ensuring a moist and flavorful dish.
  • Check for Doneness: The casserole should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will continue to firm up as it cools.

Recipe Notes about Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole

As you prepare to make this delicious casserole, here are some tips that will help you perfect your Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole.

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the casserole after baking. Just make sure it cools completely before wrapping it tightly and placing it in the freezer.
  • Pairing: Serve your casserole with fresh fruit or whipped cream to elevate the flavors.
  • For Added Flavor: Consider adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom to the custard for an extra layer of warmth.
  • Serving Size: This recipe serves well as a brunch dish and can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.

Accompaniments for Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole

When it comes to serving your Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole, there are a plethora of options to consider that can elevate the entire experience:

  • Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside an assortment of fresh fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, or sliced bananas for a colorful, healthy complement.
  • Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt can add a creamy tang that balances the sweetness of the dish.
  • Maple Syrup: A generous drizzle of pure maple syrup enhances the flavors and adds a touch of sweetness.
  • Breakfast Meats: Pairing with a savory side like turkey sausage or chicken sausage can provide a perfect balance to the sweet casserole.
  • Occasions: This recipe is perfect for brunches, holiday breakfasts, or even a cozy family dinner. It’s sure to impress!
  • Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them covered in the refrigerator. Reheating in the oven will help maintain the texture.

FAQ

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for preparing in advance. You can assemble the casserole the night before and let it sit in the fridge overnight. Just remember to sprinkle the streusel topping on right before baking to keep it crispy!

Using a sturdy, chewy bread like sourdough or French bread works best for Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole. Day-old bread is preferable as it absorbs the custard mixture without becoming mushy. Avoid soft sandwich bread as it may fall apart.

Yes! While blueberries are delicious, you can definitely experiment with other fruits. Strawberries, raspberries, or even chopped apples make excellent substitutes. Just be mindful that some fruits may alter the texture or moisture levels, so adjust baking time accordingly.

Leftover Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or the oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

The Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole is a delightful dish that embodies comfort and celebration all in one. Its beautiful layers of flavor and texture create an experience you and your loved ones will cherish. I encourage you to give it a try and share the joy it brings!

Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole is a delightful mix of fluffy bread and juicy blueberries. Perfect for any occasion, this easy dish will satisfy your cravings for a sweet and hearty breakfast. Make it today and share the joy!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • 9 x 11 Baking Dish
  • Spray oil
  • Sharp Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Medium sized mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

  • 1 loaf chewy bread like sourdough or French; this can be day old and should be about a pound/16 ounces.
  • 6 large eggs large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • Pinch salt
  • 2 cups blueberries
  • 3 tablespoons softened butter
  • ¼ cup flour
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup rolled oats
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch salt

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This ensures that the casserole bakes evenly, giving you that perfect golden brown crust.
  • Cut the butter for the streusel topping into small pieces and leave it on the counter to soften. This way, it will blend easily with the dry ingredients later.
  • Spray a 9 x 11 casserole dish with some spray oil. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleaning easier!
  • In a medium-sized bowl, crack open the eggs and mix them with a whisk until they’re well blended. Add the milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt before whisking again until combined.
  • Slice the bread into 1-inch cubes. You should have about 8 to 10 cups of bread when you’re done slicing. This size is perfect for soaking up the custard.
  • Add half of the bread cubes to the bottom of the casserole dish. Spread half of the blueberries over the bread to create a delicious layer.
  • Add the remaining bread on top of the blueberries. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down any pieces that stick up above the custard. This ensures every bite is flavorful.
  • Top the casserole with the rest of the blueberries. Let the assembled dish sit for at least 30 minutes, or even better, store it in the fridge overnight.
  • In a medium-sized bowl, add the softened butter, flour, brown sugar, oats, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Using a fork or pastry cutter, mix until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  • If you prepped the casserole the night before, keep the streusel topping separate until morning. If you're baking it right away, sprinkle the streusel on top of the casserole.
  • Bake for 23 to 25 minutes until the casserole is gooey but not raw. You should see the mixture bubbling. Serve with a generous drizzle of maple syrup and enjoy!

Notes

  • Tip 1: Make the streusel topping the night before but store it separate from the casserole. Sprinkle the streusel topping on top of the casserole right before you bake it.
  • Tip 2: Fresh blueberries are preferred, but you can use frozen. Frozen berries may have more moisture and might require longer baking.
  • Tip 3: Serve with a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness.
  • Tip 4: If using frozen blueberries, add them just before baking.
  • Tip 5: Customize with your favorite fruits for a unique twist.
Keyword Blueberry Casserole, Breakfast Casserole, easy brunch recipe, French Toast Bake

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