Description
This Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole is a delightful make-ahead breakfast perfect for busy mornings. Softened cream cheese layers with sweet powdered sugar and fresh blueberries create a creamy, fruity filling. Combined with custard-soaked French bread cubes, cinnamon, and nutmeg, this baked casserole is bursting with cozy flavors and a golden, tender texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 1 pack (8 ounces) softened cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, divided
- 1 cup blueberries
Casserole
- 2 loaves cubed French bread (about 8 cups)
- 2 cups milk
- 8 eggs
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup blueberries (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and half of the vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 1 cup of blueberries, setting the mixture aside.
- Layer Bread and Filling: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread half of the cubed French bread in an even layer in the dish. Dollop the cream cheese and blueberry filling over the bread cubes, spreading slightly. Top with remaining bread cubes to cover the filling.
- Make Custard: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, 2 cups milk, remaining 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the custard evenly over the bread layers, pressing down gently to ensure all bread cubes absorb the custard. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup blueberries on top.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or lid and refrigerate for at least 8-12 hours or overnight to allow the custard to soak thoroughly into the bread.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with powdered sugar or maple syrup.
Notes
- For best results, use a sturdy bread like French or brioche to soak up the custard without becoming overly soggy.
- You can substitute frozen blueberries if fresh are unavailable; thaw and drain excess liquid before use.
- This casserole can be assembled the night before and baked fresh in the morning for convenience.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.
- Adding a streusel topping before baking adds a delightful crunch and extra sweetness.
