Growing up in Chicago, my kitchen was always a whirlwind of activity, filled with the comforting aroma of homemade dishes. My mother, a culinary wizard with a knack for creating magic from simple ingredients, often had me perched on the countertop, watching her every move. One of my fondest memories is the weekend ritual of making a delightful breakfast dish that brought our family together: the blueberry French toast casserole. This dish, with its luscious layers of custardy bread and juicy blueberries, was a staple at our table, especially during those chilly Chicago mornings when all you wanted was a warm hug in the form of food.

Inspired by my Polish roots and a love for American comfort food, this blueberry French toast casserole is a modern twist on a classic. It’s a dish that not only embodies the warmth of family traditions but also offers a creative canvas for culinary exploration. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply want to make a weekend breakfast special, this casserole is your go-to recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This blueberry French toast casserole is the epitome of comfort food. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for those lazy Sunday mornings or a busy weekday breakfast. The casserole is fluffy, with a delightful crunch from the baked top, and the blueberries add a burst of freshness that balances the rich custard. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to fit various dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free option or a way to use up stale bread, this recipe has you covered.

Ingredients

1 loaf of day-old bread, cubed
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons butter, melted
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Spread the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the blueberries over the bread, ensuring even distribution.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Pour the egg mixture over the bread and blueberries, pressing down gently to ensure the bread absorbs the custard.
Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!

What Makes This Recipe Special

Quick and easy to prepare
Packed with flavor and nutrition
Perfect for any occasion
Customizable to your taste preferences
Budget-friendly ingredients

Expert Tips for Success

For the best results, use day-old bread as it absorbs the custard better without becoming too soggy. If you don’t have stale bread, you can lightly toast fresh bread in the oven before using it. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of bread, such as brioche or challah, for a richer flavor.

COOKING TOOLS

When I make this blueberry French toast casserole, a few simple tools always make prep faster and cleaner. My go-to tool is the MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife for slicing the bread effortlessly. And, for mixing the custard, I rely on the Silicone Utensils Set, which is gentle on my mixing bowls and ensures everything is blended perfectly.

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Variations and Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize this blueberry French toast casserole, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts for extra crunch or swapping the blueberries for raspberries or sliced strawberries. For a gluten-free version, simply use your favorite gluten-free bread. To reduce sugar, you can substitute a portion of the granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is best served warm, straight from the oven. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. For a complete breakfast spread, serve alongside crispy bacon or sausage and a fresh fruit salad. A cup of hot coffee or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice complements the dish perfectly.

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FAQs

Can I prepare the casserole in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the oven until warmed through.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Absolutely! Once baked, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Final Thoughts

This blueberry French toast casserole is more than just a breakfast dish; it’s a celebration of family, tradition, and the joy of cooking. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it brings a little warmth and happiness to your table.

👉 I hope you loved making this blueberry French toast casserole—it’s like a cozy hug on a plate. If you’re in the mood for more delicious breakfast ideas, why not try my blueberry muffins, banana pancakes, or overnight oats? Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group—and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!