If you are looking for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe. It combines the sweet burst of fresh blueberries with a rich custard and a satisfyingly crispy top, making it an irresistible morning treat. Whether you’re hosting a special brunch or just craving something comforting, this dish promises a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows a close-up of many small bread cubes in a baking pan, mixed evenly with fresh blueberries. The bread pieces are light golden-brown on the outside and soft white inside, while the blueberries are smooth and dark blue-purple. The bread and berries fill the pan completely, creating a mix of rough bread texture and smooth fruit skin against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential for creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in this casserole. Each component contributes something special, from the tangy sourdough bread providing structure, to the fresh blueberries offering juicy bursts of sweetness, all wrapped in a creamy, cinnamon-kissed custard.

1 large sourdough loaf (14-16oz.), cut into 1 inch cubes: The sturdy sourdough soaks up the custard beautifully while adding a subtle tang.
6 eggs: Eggs create a luscious custard that holds the casserole together.
2 cups milk of choice: Milk adds creaminess; feel free to use dairy or plant-based milk.
¼ to ⅓ cup maple syrup: Adjust the sweetness to your liking; maple syrup adds a rich, natural sweetness.
1½ teaspoons cinnamon: A warm spice that brings depth and cozy notes.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the sweetness and rounds out flavors.
⅛ teaspoon salt: Salt balances all the sweetness and spices perfectly.
1½ cups fresh blueberries: Bursting with juicy freshness and beautiful color.
Cinnamon sugar, optional: Sprinkled on top before baking for an extra crunchy, flavorful crust.
Optional toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, extra blueberries: For finishing touches that turn this dish into a showstopper.

How to Make Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the custard mixture

Start by whisking the eggs in a large bowl until they’re smooth and light. Slowly add the milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt, whisking until everything is fully combined and beautifully aromatic. This custard will soak into the bread cubes, creating that irresistible custardy texture we all love.

Step 2: Assemble the layers

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spread half of the sourdough cubes evenly on the bottom, then sprinkle half of the fresh blueberries on top. Repeat with the remaining bread and berries, creating two layers of soft bread and juicy fruit.

Step 3: Soak and chill

Pour your custard mixture over the layered bread and berries, ensuring every cube gets nicely soaked. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better. The longer it rests, the more the bread absorbs that custardy goodness, making the center soft and indulgent.

Step 4: Bake to golden perfection

When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the foil and sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the top for that coveted crispy, caramelized finish. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the top is toasted and golden brown. Once out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before serving to let the custard set just right.

How to Serve Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe

A rectangular white baking dish filled with a layered dessert that has golden-brown toasted bread pieces on top, scattered with plump dark blueberries throughout the layers and surface. The bread pieces have a slightly crisp texture and are dusted evenly with fine white powdered sugar. Some blueberry juice is visible around the edges, creating small purple spots. The dish handle is blue with the word STAUB embossed on it. The background is a white marbled texture with a wooden spoon and a gray striped cloth nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Nothing enhances this casserole like a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of extra maple syrup, adding that perfect touch of sweetness and visual appeal. Fresh blueberries scattered on top bring brightness and a pop of color, making it even more inviting.

Side Dishes

Serve your Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe alongside crispy bacon or sausage for a savory contrast. A light fruit salad or yogurt parfait pairs beautifully, balancing richness with freshness, making your breakfast experience well-rounded and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the casserole in individual ramekins for an elegant twist, perfect for brunch parties. You can also layer it with nuts or add a splash of lemon zest to the custard for a zesty surprise. Adding a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone cheese on the side elevates each bite with creamy luxury.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. The casserole keeps well for up to 3 days and makes for an easy, delicious next-day breakfast or snack.

Freezing

This Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe also freezes wonderfully. Simply cover the unbaked assembled casserole tightly with foil and plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then proceed as directed.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy on top. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the texture can become soggy, and you want to keep that delightful contrast of creamy and crisp.

FAQs

Can I use bread other than sourdough for this casserole?

Absolutely! While sourdough adds a wonderful flavor and texture, you can substitute with challah, brioche, or any sturdy bread. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold the custard without falling apart.

Is it necessary to soak the casserole overnight?

Not necessary but highly recommended. Soaking overnight allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, resulting in a softer, more tender center. If short on time, 30 minutes can work but the texture won’t be quite as luscious.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

Yes! Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and replace eggs with a commercial egg replacer or a mixture of flaxseed and water to create a similar custard texture. It won’t be exactly the same but still delicious.

What’s the best way to prevent the casserole from getting soggy?

To avoid sogginess, cut the bread into cubes and let it dry out a bit before assembling. Also, controlling how long the casserole soaks and baking at the right temperature ensures a crisp top while keeping the inside custardy.

Can I add other fruits besides blueberries?

Definitely! Strawberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches would all work beautifully. Just keep in mind the moisture content of the fruit, as very juicy options might require a slightly longer baking time.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe is an absolute gem that brings joy to any breakfast table. Its combination of fluffy custard, fresh blueberries, and a crispy, cinnamon-sugar topping is a crowd-pleaser every time. I wholeheartedly encourage you to make this recipe your next brunch centerpiece—you’ll be delighted with the comforting, delicious results.

Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe