Description
This Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole is a delightful, make-ahead breakfast dish that combines the creamy sweetness of a cream cheese mixture with fresh blueberries and custard-soaked French bread cubes. Perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunch, this casserole is baked to golden perfection and bursting with warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 1 pack (8 ounces) softened cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, divided
- 2 cups blueberries, divided
Bread and Custard
- 2 loaves cubed French bread
- 2 cups milk
- 8 eggs
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and half of the vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 1 cup of the blueberries.
- Layer the Bread and Cream Cheese: In a greased casserole dish, spread half of the cubed French bread evenly. Dollop half of the cream cheese mixture over the bread and spread gently. Repeat with the remaining bread cubes and cream cheese mixture. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of blueberries over the top.
- Make the Custard: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, 2 cups milk, remaining 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract, cinnamon powder, and ground nutmeg until fully combined.
- Combine and Refrigerate: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and cream cheese mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the bread soaks up the custard. Cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 12 hours.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or serve with maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Notes
- For best results, use slightly stale French bread as it soaks up the custard better without becoming too mushy.
- Feel free to substitute blueberries with other berries or fruits such as strawberries or raspberries.
- This casserole can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance; storing it longer than that may affect texture.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave before serving.
- You can add chopped nuts on top before baking for added crunch.
