Blueberry French Toast
Overnight Blueberry French Toast is a sweet breakfast casserole made by soaking bread cubes in a creamy egg custard with fresh blueberries. The mixture rests overnight in the refrigerator, allowing the bread to absorb the custard completely. When baked, it becomes soft, fluffy, and golden on top. The blueberries create bursts of sweet flavor throughout the dish. This recipe is perfect for brunch gatherings or holiday breakfasts. Its make-ahead preparation makes mornings simple and stress-free.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1½ cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)
- 6 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
Optional Topping
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup chopped pecans
- Powdered sugar for garnish
- Powdered sugar for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer bread: Spread half of the bread cubes evenly in the dish.
- Add blueberries: Sprinkle half of the blueberries over the bread.
- Repeat layers: Add the remaining bread cubes and top with the remaining blueberries.
- Prepare custard: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour mixture: Pour the custard evenly over the bread mixture.
- Add butter: Dot the top with small pieces of butter.
- Refrigerate overnight: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until golden and set.
- Serve: Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup before serving.
Notes
- Day-old bread works best because it absorbs the custard better.
- Frozen blueberries should be thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture.
- Brioche or challah bread adds extra richness.
- The casserole will puff slightly while baking.
- It tastes delicious both warm and slightly cooled.
- The topping adds a crunchy texture but is optional.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.