Get ready to elevate your breakfast game with our Blueberry and Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole! This irresistible dish combines the comforting flavors of French bread, creamy cream cheese, plump blueberries, and a hint of cinnamon, all soaked in a rich custard mixture and baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re hosting a special brunch or treating yourself to a cozy morning meal, this casserole is sure to impress with its decadent taste and comforting aroma.
In our household, Blueberry and Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is more than just a breakfast dish—it’s a beloved tradition that brings our family together around the table. I still remember the first time I made this casserole for my family—a lazy Sunday morning when the sun was streaming through the windows, and we were craving something special to start the day. As the scent of cinnamon and vanilla filled the air, my husband and kids gathered around the kitchen, eager to sample the delicious creation. From that moment on, this casserole has become a staple in our household, requested for birthdays, holidays, and any occasion worth celebrating.
Why This Blueberry and Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Is a Must-Try!
- Decadent Flavor Profile: With a combination of creamy cream cheese, sweet blueberries, and warm cinnamon, this casserole offers a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite, making it a perfect indulgence for breakfast or brunch.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: This recipe can be assembled the night before and stored in the refrigerator, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free morning while still serving up a delicious homemade breakfast.
- Versatile Options: Whether served with a sprinkle of raw sugar for added sweetness or accompanied by the luscious blueberry sauce, this casserole can be customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
- Crowd Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults alike, this Blueberry and Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is sure to be a hit at any gathering or family breakfast. Its comforting flavors and satisfying texture make it a dish that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients:
For Casserole:
- 1 large loaf French bread, about 8 cups, preferably day-old
- 8 eggs
- 600ml (2 1/2 cups) half and half
- 65g (1/3 cup) sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 150g (1 cup) fresh blueberries or frozen blueberries (tossed in 15g (1 tablespoon) of flour)
- 1 8 oz package cream cheese, light or regular, cubed (freeze for 15 minutes for easier cutting)
- 25g (1/4 cup) raw sugar for sprinkling on top (optional)
For Blueberry Sauce:
- 240ml (1 cup) water
- 100g (1/2 cup) sugar
- 30g (2 tablespoons) cornstarch
- 280g (2 cups) blueberries
Directions:
- Butter a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Cut the French bread into 2-inch cubes and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until completely mixed.
- Place half of the bread cubes in the prepared dish.
- Top with half of the cream cheese cubes and half cup of blueberries.
- Add the remaining bread cubes and top with the remaining cream cheese and additional half cup of blueberries.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, pressing down to ensure they are completely soaked.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 48 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Remove the plastic wrap and sprinkle the casserole with raw sugar, if using.
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the center is firm and the bread is slightly browned on top.
- Cool the casserole slightly before serving, and serve with blueberry sauce.
Notes:
- To ensure the blueberries stay intact, toss frozen blueberries in flour before adding them to the casserole.
- The blueberry sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.
