Blueberry and Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is a decadent breakfast or brunch dish that combines the creamy richness of cream cheese, the sweet burst of blueberries, and the comforting flavor of cinnamon-soaked French bread. Perfect for holidays or lazy weekend mornings, this casserole is made ahead of time and baked to golden perfection. Pair it with a simple homemade blueberry sauce for an extra layer of deliciousness!
Why You Will Love Blueberry and Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it the night before and bake in the morning—ideal for stress-free hosting.
- Rich and Creamy: Cream cheese cubes add a velvety texture to balance the sweetness of the dish.
- Bursting with Blueberries: Fresh or frozen, the blueberries add a fruity punch to every bite.
- Customizable: Add nuts, swap fruits, or adjust sweetness to suit your preferences.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Serves up to 8 people and is a favorite at family gatherings and brunch parties.
Ingredients Notes For Blueberry and Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
For the Casserole:
- French Bread: Day-old bread works best as it absorbs the custard mixture without getting mushy. Substitute with brioche or challah for a richer flavor.
- Half and Half: Provides a creamy base for the custard. You can use whole milk or a combination of milk and heavy cream.
- Cream Cheese: Freeze for 15 minutes before cubing for easier cutting. Light or regular cream cheese works equally well.
- Blueberries: Toss frozen blueberries in flour to prevent color bleeding into the custard. Fresh blueberries require no extra prep.
For the Blueberry Sauce:
- Blueberries: Fresh or frozen, they create a sweet, slightly tangy topping that complements the casserole.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce without altering the flavor.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch casserole dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Small saucepan
- Plastic wrap
- Aluminum foil
How to Make Blueberry and Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
Prepare the Casserole:
- Butter a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Cut the French bread into 2-inch cubes and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.
- Place half of the bread cubes in the prepared dish. Top with half of the cream cheese cubes and half a cup of blueberries. Repeat with the remaining bread, cream cheese, and blueberries.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, pressing the bread cubes down gently to ensure they are fully soaked.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 48 hours.
Bake the Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Remove the plastic wrap from the casserole.
- Sprinkle the top with raw sugar if desired for a caramelized finish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 20-30 minutes until the center is firm and the top is golden brown.
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.
Make the Blueberry Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine water, sugar, and cornstarch. Heat over medium, stirring until the mixture begins to simmer and thicken.
- Add the blueberries and simmer for 10 minutes. Use a fork or whisk to slightly break up the blueberries to your desired consistency.
- Let the sauce cool slightly before serving. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
- Serve warm with blueberry sauce drizzled over the top. Add whipped cream or powdered sugar for extra indulgence.
- Pair with bacon, sausage, or a fresh fruit salad for a complete brunch spread.
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave.
- Freezer: Wrap the baked casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations
- Nutty Blueberry Delight: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts between the layers for a nutty crunch.
- Mixed Berry Version: Use a combination of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a more vibrant flavor.
- Lemon Blueberry Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the custard and a splash of lemon juice to the blueberry sauce for a tangy kick.
Helpful Notes
- Bread Absorption: Press the bread cubes into the custard mixture to ensure even soaking.
- Raw Sugar Topping: Adds a delightful crunch but is optional if you prefer a softer texture.
- Consistent Blueberries: Toss frozen berries in flour to keep the color from bleeding into the custard.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ina Garten: “Always use day-old bread for custard-based dishes. It ensures the bread absorbs the liquid without falling apart.”
- Ree Drummond: “For a crisp top, bake uncovered for the last few minutes and broil slightly if desired.”
- Martha Stewart: “For the best flavor, use pure vanilla extract and high-quality cinnamon in your custard.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this casserole without cream cheese?
Yes, the casserole will still be delicious without cream cheese, but it may lack the creamy texture. You can substitute with mascarpone or ricotta cheese.
2. Can I use a different bread?
Yes, brioche, challah, or even sandwich bread can be used. Adjust soaking time based on the density of the bread.
3. What if I don’t have raw sugar?
Substitute raw sugar with regular granulated sugar or brown sugar for a similar sweet topping.
4. Can I skip the blueberry sauce?
Yes, but the sauce adds a complementary sweetness and fruity flavor. Alternatively, serve with maple syrup or powdered sugar.
5. Can I bake it immediately without chilling?
Chilling helps the bread absorb the custard fully, enhancing flavor and texture. If short on time, let it rest for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Blueberry and Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is a delightful dish that’s easy to make, customize, and enjoy. Perfect for special occasions or casual weekend mornings!
