Introduction
There’s something magical about waking up to the tantalizing aroma of fresh blueberries and cinnamon wafting through the house. It reminds me of lazy Sunday mornings spent at Grandma’s kitchen table, where the sun streamed in just right, casting a warm glow over the perfectly set breakfast spread. At the heart of it all was her legendary Blueberry and Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole, a dish that brought family together, full of laughter and love. This indulgent treat is more than just a recipe; it’s a hug in casserole form, perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a festive brunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Blueberry and Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is truly a showstopper! Here are some heartfelt reasons why it will become a cherished favorite in your home:
- Quick Family Meal: Prepare it the night before for a hassle-free morning!
- Comforting Dinner Option: Enjoy it any night of the week when you need a little something special.
- Festive Dish: Ideal for holidays, gatherings, or celebrations with loved ones.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The delightful blend of flavors complements any palate.
- Indulgent Treat: Cream cheese and blueberries make every bite sublime.
Ingredients with Notes
Get your grocery list ready! Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delightful Blueberry and Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole:
- 1 loaf of day-old bread: A brioche or challah works beautifully for texture.
- 8 large eggs: Fresh for the best flavor.
- 2 cups whole milk: For a rich, creamy custard.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This makes the casserole extra decadent.
- 1 cup fresh blueberries: Their sweetness balances the cream cheese.
- 8 oz cream cheese: Softened for easy blending.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: A splash adds warmth.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adjust as needed for your sweetness preference.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: This aromatic spice elevates the dish.
- 1/4 tsp salt: To balance the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar and maple syrup for serving: These are optional finishes that add that extra flair.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
This recipe can be enjoyed fresh from the oven in under an hour, but it’s best when you allow it to mellow overnight. The anticipation is part of the magic!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Prepare the Bread: Tear the day-old bread into bite-sized pieces and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread them out evenly.
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Make the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and half of the granulated sugar. Blend with a fork until creamy and smooth. You can also use a hand mixer if you desire a finer texture.
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Dot the Bread: Add dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the torn bread pieces. Gently fold in the blueberries, making sure to distribute them evenly.
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Whisk the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, remaining sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
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Combine: Pour the custard mixture over the bread and cream cheese. Lightly press the bread down so that every piece is soaked in the custard.
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Rest: Cover with plastic wrap and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it come to room temperature. Bake for 45-55 minutes until the top is golden brown and set.
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Serve: Once baked, let it cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup for an unforgettable finish.
Tips and Variations
- Healthy Swaps: Use whole grain bread for a healthier option, and consider reducing the sugar or using a sugar substitute.
- Seasonal Twists: Swap blueberries for strawberries or raspberries, or even add some chopped pecans for a lovely crunch.
- Flavored Upgrades: Add a touch of lemon zest to the custard for a refreshing twist!
Serving Ideas
Imagine pulling this Blueberry and Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole from the oven, the warm, bubbling edges calling you closer. It’s delightful on its own, but you can make it even more special by pairing it with crispy bacon or fresh fruit for a colorful presentation. For drinks, a chilled glass of sparkling water with lemon really elevates the experience, or you might enjoy a cup of steaming coffee or herbal tea while you savor each bite.
Storage and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare), you can store this dreamy casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about one minute or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Choose Day-Old Bread: Using bread that is a day old helps it soak up the custard without falling apart.
- Perfect Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy blending and better texture.
- Soak Overnight: Letting the casserole sit overnight enhances flavor and texture, making it even more heavenly.
- Don’t Rush the Bake: Be patient and allow the casserole to cook through—nice and golden on top is the goal!
- Serve Warm: This dish is best served warm, so keep it in the oven on a low setting if you need to serve over time.
FAQs
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Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the milk and cream with almond or coconut milk and use dairy-free cream cheese. -
How do I make this vegan?
Replace eggs with a commercial egg replacer and use plant-based milk and cream. -
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes! Assemble and cover tightly. Bake directly from the freezer, adding about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. -
What’s the best way to sweeten it?
You can use honey or maple syrup as a natural alternative to sugar if desired. -
How do I serve it?
This casserole is delightful on its own but can be embellished with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of nut butter for extra indulgence.
Conclusion
If you’ve been searching for a cozy favorite that feels both special and comforting, your quest ends here with this Blueberry and Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole. It’s a dish rooted in love, perfect for sharing with family and friends. I invite you to gather around your table, share this recipe with your loved ones, and create joyful moments together that will warm your hearts for years to come. Enjoy every luscious bite!
Contents
Blueberry and Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1 loaf day-old bread A brioche or challah works beautifully for texture.
- 8 large eggs Fresh for the best flavor.
- 2 cups whole milk For a rich, creamy custard.
- 1 cup heavy cream This makes the casserole extra decadent.
- 1 cup fresh blueberries Their sweetness balances the cream cheese.
- 8 oz cream cheese Softened for easy blending.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract A splash adds warmth.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar Adjust as needed for your sweetness preference.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon This aromatic spice elevates the dish.
- 1/4 tsp salt To balance the sweetness.
For Serving
- Powdered sugar Optional finish.
- Maple syrup Optional finish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Tear the day-old bread into bite-sized pieces and place them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread them out evenly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and half of the granulated sugar. Blend with a fork until creamy and smooth.
- Add dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the torn bread pieces. Gently fold in the blueberries to distribute them evenly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, remaining sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread and cream cheese. Lightly press the bread down so that every piece is soaked in the custard.
- Cover with plastic wrap and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it come to room temperature.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes until the top is golden brown and set.
Serving
- Once baked, let it cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup for an unforgettable finish.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest