Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is a delightful breakfast or brunch dish that combines sweet blueberries, creamy tangy cream cheese, and soft French toast baked to golden perfection. It’s easy to prepare ahead, making mornings stress-free and delicious.

A thick square slice of bread pudding is shown on a white plate with a white marbled surface beneath; the pudding has three visible layers: the top layer is golden brown toasted bread cubes, the middle layer is creamy white custard mixed with whole blueberries, and the bottom layer is lighter bread soaked with custard and blueberries; on top, there is a glossy, dark purple blueberry compote dripping down the sides, and fresh blueberries are scattered around the base. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 1 large loaf French bread, about 8 cups (day old is best), cut into cubes
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 1/2 cups half and half
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (if frozen, toss with 1 tablespoon flour)
  • 18 oz cream cheese, cubed
  • 1/4 cup raw sugar for sprinkling on top (optional)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Step 2: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and place the bread cubes evenly inside.
  3. Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half and half, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
  4. Step 4: Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes and gently stir to ensure all pieces are soaked.
  5. Step 5: Dollop the cubed cream cheese and blueberries evenly on top, then press down lightly.
  6. Step 6: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard fully.
  7. Step 7: Remove the cover and sprinkle raw sugar on top if using. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until the casserole is golden brown and set in the center.
  8. Step 8 (Optional Sauce): In a saucepan, combine 1 cup water, 1/2 cup sugar, and 2 tablespoons cornstarch over medium heat. Stir until thickened, then add 2 cups blueberries and cook until they burst. Serve warm over the casserole.

Tips & Variations

  • Use day-old bread to avoid soggy casserole and get a firmer texture.
  • For dairy-free, substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use almond or oat milk instead of half and half.
  • Try adding chocolate chips with the cream cheese for a richer flavor.
  • Experiment with raspberries or sliced strawberries instead of blueberries for a fruity twist.
  • Let the casserole soak overnight for the best texture and deeper flavor infusion.

Storage

After baking and cooling, cover the casserole with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

How to Serve

A thick square slice of bread pudding sits on a white plate with a white marbled background. The bread pudding has three visible layers: the top layer is golden brown toasted bread cubes with a slightly crispy texture, the middle layer is creamy white custard mixed with juicy, deep purple blueberries, and the bottom layer is soft, light bread soaked in custard. Glossy blueberry sauce with whole berries drips down the sides and pools on the plate, with fresh blueberries scattered around for garnish. The rich contrast between the golden bread, white custard, and dark purple berries creates a very appealing look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, preparing it the night before and letting it soak overnight in the refrigerator is recommended for best results.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze individual portions tightly wrapped to preserve freshness. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I use instead of blueberries?

Other berries like raspberries or sliced strawberries work wonderfully as a substitute.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free bread in place of French bread, and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Print

Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe

A delicious and indulgent baked French toast casserole featuring cubes of brioche bread soaked in a rich custard made of eggs, milk, sugar, and warm spices, layered with creamy cream cheese and fresh blueberries. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, this casserole combines comforting flavors and a luscious texture that’s sure to please.

  • Author: lea
  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 50 mins
  • Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

French Toast Casserole

  • 1 large loaf brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups fresh blueberries
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Cut the brioche bread into 1-inch cubes and evenly spread them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure proper soaking of custard.
  2. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture: Beat the cream cheese until smooth using a hand mixer or whisk. Gently fold in the fresh blueberries, taking care not to crush them.
  3. Whisk the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined and smooth.
  4. Combine Everything: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the baking dish, then dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese and blueberry mixture on top. Use a spatula to gently press down the bread to ensure it soaks up the custard.
  5. Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard fully.
  6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove plastic wrap and bake the casserole for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Test doneness by inserting a knife— it should come out clean.
  7. Serve: Optionally garnish with additional fresh blueberries, maple syrup, or whipped cream and enjoy immediately.

Notes

  • Use day-old brioche bread for better texture and to prevent sogginess.
  • Let the casserole soak overnight for optimal custard absorption and flavor.
  • Dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based milk can be substituted for a dairy-free version.
  • Try adding chocolate chips for an extra indulgent twist.
  • Avoid overbaking to prevent drying out the casserole.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

Keywords: Blueberry French Toast Casserole, Cream Cheese French Toast, Breakfast Casserole, Brunch Recipe, Berry Breakfast, Baked French Toast

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