Description
This Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole is a delightful make-ahead breakfast featuring cubed French bread soaked in a rich mixture of eggs, milk, and warm spices, layered with cream cheese and fresh blueberries. Perfect for busy mornings, this casserole bakes into a golden, custardy treat that combines creamy, fruity, and cinnamon-spiced 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
Casserole
- 2 loaves cubed French bread
- 2 cups milk
- 8 eggs
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 cups blueberries, divided
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and half of the vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a large baking dish. Spread half of the cubed French bread evenly in the dish. Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the bread, then sprinkle with 1 cup of blueberries. Layer the remaining bread cubes on top, then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of blueberries.
- Mix the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, 2 cups milk, cinnamon powder, ground nutmeg, and the remaining vanilla extract until well combined.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the assembled bread and cream cheese layer, pressing down gently to ensure all bread soaks in the liquid. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Place the casserole in the refrigerator for at least 8 to 12 hours to allow the custard to fully soak into the bread and flavors to meld.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator, uncover it, and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set, the top is golden brown, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with syrup for extra sweetness.
Notes
- Use day-old or slightly stale French bread for better texture as it absorbs the custard without becoming too soggy.
- The cream cheese layer adds richness and depth – be sure to spread it evenly.
- Fresh or frozen blueberries can be used, but if using frozen, do not thaw before adding.
- Prepare the casserole the night before to save time in the morning.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
