Blueberry French Toast Casserole : The Best Make-Ahead Breakfast for Brunch or Holidays

If you’re looking for a breakfast dish that’s equal parts impressive and easy, this Blueberry French Toast Casserole is the answer. With a custard-soaked base, juicy blueberries, and a golden brown crumb topping, it’s everything you want in a weekend breakfast or holiday brunch. Whether you’re serving a large group or prepping ahead for family mornings, this dish delivers bakery-level results without the early wake-up call.

This recipe combines the richness of French toast with the sweet-tart flavor of blueberries. It’s perfect for festive occasions like Easter, Christmas morning, or Mother’s Day brunch, but also easy enough for any slow Sunday morning. If you enjoy recipes that are easy to prep the night before, you’ll love how this casserole simplifies your morning routine.

Looking for savory pairings? Consider serving it alongside Grilled Burgers, Beef Burger sliders, or Grilled Beef kebabs to balance the sweetness.

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What Makes This Blueberry French Toast Casserole So Special?

This isn’t just any French toast casserole recipe—it’s one of the most flavorful, foolproof, and crowd-pleasing options out there. What sets it apart?

• Soft on the inside, crisp on top – The custard-soaked bread bakes into a creamy interior while the streusel topping gives it crunch.
• Bursting with blueberries – Every bite is packed with juicy berries.
• Make-ahead friendly – Prep it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning.
• Customizable – Switch out berries or bread types to suit your needs.

It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy enough for a brunch party, but is easy enough for beginners.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Blueberry French Toast Casserole

This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together in delicious harmony. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Casserole:

• 1 loaf (approx. 14–16 oz) day-old French bread, cut into cubes
• 1 ¾ cups (420ml) whole milk
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 6 large eggs
• ⅓ cup (67g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups (about 300g) fresh or frozen blueberries

For the Crumb Topping:

• ½ cup (65g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Optional: powdered sugar or maple syrup for serving

Want to try other easy berry-based recipes? These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls are another delicious and fruity brunch treat.

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How to Make Blueberry French Toast Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Cut your loaf of day-old bread into 1-inch cubes. Using stale bread helps it hold up to the custard and gives the casserole a better texture.

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until completely smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half the bread cubes in the dish, sprinkle with half of the blueberries, then repeat with remaining bread and blueberries. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the top, pressing the bread down slightly to help it absorb.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.

Step 4: Make the Crumb Topping

In a medium bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cubed cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to work it into coarse crumbs. Cover and refrigerate overnight or keep chilled until ready to bake.

Step 5: Bake

When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge and preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Sprinkle the crumb topping over the casserole.

Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is set. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup if desired.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand for this blueberry French toast casserole:

• Large mixing bowls
• Whisk
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Plastic wrap or foil
• Pastry cutter or fork (for crumb topping)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula for serving

Want more breakfast inspiration? These Cinnamon Roll Breakfast Bake and Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal recipes are great morning options too.

Expert Tips for the Best French Toast Casserole Recipes

• Use sturdy bread: Brioche, French bread, or sourdough works best.
• Let it soak overnight: This ensures even custard absorption.
• Frozen blueberries are fine, but don’t thaw them—this prevents the casserole from becoming soggy.
• Add a splash of lemon juice or zest to brighten the flavor.
• Check doneness by inserting a knife in the center—it should come out clean.

For more sweet ideas, don’t miss these Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles, another make-ahead dessert for festive mornings.

Blueberry Variations and Substitutions to Try

Want to mix things up? Try these creative options:

• Mixed berry version with raspberries or blackberries
• Swap blueberries for diced apples and add nutmeg for a fall version
• Add a layer of cream cheese cubes for a stuffed casserole
• Use coconut milk and dairy-free butter for a dairy-free option
• Drizzle with lemon glaze for added zing

Looking for more fruity breakfast ideas? These Apple Fritter Donuts are also a fantastic option.

Serving Ideas: From Holiday Brunch to Weekend Breakfast

This dish shines in many situations:

• Christmas or Easter morning brunch
• Mother’s Day breakfast in bed
• Baby or bridal showers
• Weekend breakfast with coffee or tea
• Make-ahead dish for overnight guests

Pair with Fruit Dip, yogurt parfaits, or a side of crispy bacon or Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin for a balanced plate.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

• Make-ahead: Assemble the casserole and topping the night before. Refrigerate both separately and bake in the morning.
• Refrigerate leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven.

For other make-ahead friendly meals, explore Crack Breakfast Casserole or Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal.

Mistakes to Avoid When Making French Toast Casserole

• Using fresh bread – it becomes too soggy. Stick to day-old or toasted bread.
• Overbaking – can dry out the custard base. Keep an eye on it.
• Uneven soaking – press the bread down gently to ensure full custard coverage.
• Too much fruit on top – can cause soggy topping. Mix berries in between layers instead.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Blueberry French Toast

Can I make this with gluten-free bread?
Yes, just make sure it’s a sturdy loaf—avoid soft sandwich breads.

Can I use frozen blueberries?
Absolutely. Use straight from frozen—do not thaw.

What’s the best type of bread to use?
French bread, brioche, or sourdough. Avoid anything too soft or pre-sliced.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free milk and butter alternatives.

Is it sweet enough without syrup?
Yes, the crumb topping adds plenty of sweetness. Syrup is optional.

Make It a Full Spread: What to Serve with Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Balance out the sweetness with savory sides or lighter additions:

• Vegetarian Pasta Primavera for a lunch brunch
• Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Pancakes for added protein
• Cucumber Dill Salad for a refreshing bite
• Beef Burgers or sliders for brunch with a twist

Sweet or Savory? Pairing with Grilled Burgers and Beef Dishes

While it may seem unusual, pairing sweet and savory items like Blueberry French Toast Casserole with grilled beef, beef burgers, or grilled chicken skewers is a great way to create a well-rounded brunch menu—perfect for weekend entertaining.

You’ll get a satisfying contrast between rich, savory protein and the fruity sweetness of the casserole.

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