If you’re on the lookout for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a lazy morning, let me introduce you to the Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe. This dish perfectly combines the tart burst of fresh blueberries with the rich, velvety cream cheese tucked between layers of custardy French bread. Every bite is a symphony of flavors and textures—from soft, soaked bread to pockets of sweet and creamy goodness. It’s just the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again for family gatherings, weekend brunches, or any day that deserves a little extra comfort and joy.

Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started on the Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe means gathering a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that work beautifully together. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s creating the custardy soak, adding bursts of juicy flavor, or delivering that melt-in-your-mouth texture we crave.

Cubed French bread or brioche: Choose sturdy, slightly stale bread to absorb all the custard without falling apart.
Fresh or frozen blueberries: These juicy berries provide natural sweetness and a vibrant pop of color.
Softened cream cheese cubes: These pockets of creamy indulgence melt slightly during baking for a luscious surprise.
Large eggs: The foundation for your rich custard soak, binding everything together.
Whole milk and heavy cream: Together, they create a silky custard that soaks into the bread perfectly.
Granulated sugar and brown sugar: These add just the right amount of sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.
Vanilla extract: A splash of warmth and depth that brings the whole dish to life.
Ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy, aromatic layer that’s the hallmark of great French toast.
Powdered sugar: For dusting right before serving to add a touch of elegance and sweetness.

How to Make Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This not only prevents sticking but also helps the edges crisp up nicely while baking. Then, evenly spread half of your cubed French bread or brioche right into the dish—this will form the first soft layer of your casserole.

Step 2: Add Blueberries and Cream Cheese Layers

Scatter half of your fresh or frozen blueberries across the bread cubes, followed by half the softened cream cheese cubes. These two ingredients bring bursts of fruity sweetness and creamy richness that will make every forkful incredible. Repeat this layering with the remaining bread, blueberries, and cream cheese to build a delicious double-decker of flavor.

Step 3: Whisk and Pour the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and cohesive. This luscious custard is the heart of the Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe. Pour it evenly over your layered bread, blueberries, and cream cheese, ensuring every piece gets a generous soak.

Step 4: Soak Time

Let your casserole soak in the custard for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or better yet, refrigerate it overnight. This soaking allows the bread to fully absorb all the flavors, resulting in a tender, custardy breakfast dish that practically melts in your mouth.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes to gently cook through without drying out. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 25 to 30 minutes until the top is beautifully golden and the custard is set. Once out of the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes to firm up slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve it warm, and watch smiles grow around your breakfast table!

How to Serve Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Adding the right garnishes can elevate your Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe to brunch royalty. Consider a light dusting of powdered sugar for a classic touch. Fresh blueberries or a few mint leaves on top introduce freshness and visual appeal. For a bit of extra indulgence, drizzle with warm maple syrup or a homemade blueberry sauce that doubles down on berry goodness.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines brilliantly on its own but pairing it with complementary sides can round out the meal nicely. Crisp bacon or savory sausage links provide a delicious balance of textures and flavors, while a fresh fruit salad or yogurt offers a lighter, refreshing contrast. For a cozy weekend feast, serve alongside a steaming cup of coffee or freshly brewed tea.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can turn your Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe into the star of any gathering. Try serving individual portions in pretty ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a charming rustic touch. Alternatively, cut the casserole into neat squares and arrange them on a platter with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and scattered fresh berries for an inviting brunch buffet. The casserole’s colorful layers always make for a feast for the eyes!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. This makes it a fantastic option for easy breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to prepare in advance or save some for another day, this casserole freezes wonderfully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen portions should be consumed within 1 to 2 months for best flavor and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen casserole portions overnight in the fridge or reheat refrigerated leftovers directly in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave smaller portions for quicker results, but baking tends to keep the texture more like freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread for the casserole?

Absolutely! While French bread and brioche work beautifully due to their texture and ability to soak custard without falling apart, you can experiment with challah or even thick-cut sandwich bread. Just avoid breads that are too soft or airy as they might not hold up as well.

Is it necessary to soak the casserole overnight?

Soaking overnight is not mandatory but highly recommended. It allows the custard to penetrate deeply into the bread for a more tender, flavorful casserole. If you’re short on time, 30 minutes at room temperature will still yield tasty results.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?

You can adapt the Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe by using plant-based milks like almond or oat milk, substituting cream cheese with non-dairy versions, and using egg replacers. Keep in mind that texture and flavor might vary slightly, but it’s a delicious option for those with dietary restrictions.

What are some good toppings to add?

Beyond powdered sugar and maple syrup, consider whipped cream, a dollop of yogurt, toasted nuts, or a drizzle of honey. These toppings add extra texture and flavor that pair perfectly with the creamy blueberry and custard base.

Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free bread that can hold up to soaking, such as gluten-free brioche or a sturdy artisan loaf. Just be mindful that the texture may differ slightly, but the blueberry and cream cheese combo will remain delightful.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, the Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe is one of those magical breakfast recipes that feels like a special occasion every time you make it, even if it’s just a regular day. With its irresistible combination of creamy, fruity, and custardy layers, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll soon find yourself dreaming up excuses to enjoy this sweet, cozy treat again and again.

Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe

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3.8 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is a delightful breakfast bake featuring layers of cubed French bread, fresh blueberries, and creamy softened cream cheese, all soaked in a rich custard made from eggs, milk, cream, and warm spices. Baked to golden perfection and dusted with powdered sugar, it’s a perfect dish for a cozy morning or special occasion breakfast.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

6 cups cubed French bread or brioche (fresh or frozen)
2 cups fresh blueberries
8 oz softened cream cheese, cut into small cubes

Custard

6 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon

Topping

Powdered sugar, for serving

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Instructions

Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
Layer the bread and fillings: Spread half of the cubed bread evenly in the dish. Scatter half of the blueberries and half of the cream cheese cubes over the bread. Repeat the process layering the remaining bread, blueberries, and cream cheese cubes evenly.
Make the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Soak the bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread, blueberries, and cream cheese. Allow the casserole to soak for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate overnight for best flavor and texture.
Bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set in the center.
Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to set further. Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar. Serve warm, optionally with maple syrup or blueberry sauce for extra sweetness.

Notes

For extra flavor, add lemon zest to the custard mixture.
Use challah or buttery brioche bread for a richer and more decadent casserole.
Serve with maple syrup or blueberry sauce to enhance the sweetness and complement the flavors.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American