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Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole

This make-ahead breakfast casserole features cubes of sturdy bread soaked in a rich, spiced vanilla custard, layered with fresh or frozen blueberries, and baked until golden brown and fluffy. Perfect for holidays or easy weekend brunch!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 385

Ingredients
  

For the French Toast Base
  • 1 loaf sturdy bread (Challah, Brioche, or French bread), cut into 1-inch cubes (13-16 ounces; about 8 to 9 cups of cubes)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened (for greasing the pan)
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries (do not thaw if using frozen)
For the Custard Mixture
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for a richer flavor)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Serving (Optional)
  • Powdered sugar
  • Maple syrup

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Prepare the Base and Custard
  1. Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with the softened unsalted butter. Spread the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the dish. If the bread is very fresh, allow it to sit out for an hour or two to dry slightly.
  2. Sprinkle the 2 cups of blueberries evenly over the layer of bread cubes.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the 8 large eggs vigorously until slightly frothy. Add the whole milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk thoroughly until the sugars are completely dissolved and the mixture is well incorporated.
  4. Carefully pour the custard mixture slowly and evenly over the bread and blueberries in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread cubes with a spatula to help them absorb the custard fully.
Chill, Bake, and Serve
  1. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the casserole for a minimum of 4 hours, or ideally, overnight (up to 12 hours). This step is crucial for the best texture.
  2. The next morning, remove the casserole from the refrigerator. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Allow the casserole to sit on the counter for 20 to 30 minutes to come closer to room temperature while the oven preheats.
  3. Remove the plastic wrap and place the casserole in the preheated oven on the center rack. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, puffed slightly, and the center is set (a knife inserted into the center should come out clean of wet custard).
  4. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Dust generously with powdered sugar and serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.

Notes

Using slightly stale or dry bread is essential for soaking up the custard completely, which prevents the casserole from becoming soggy. If you do not have time to chill overnight, a minimum of 4 hours is necessary. For a crispier topping, feel free to add a simple streusel topping before baking.