Blueberry French Toast Bake

Whenever I think about comfort food, Blueberry French Toast Bake immediately comes to mind. It’s that warm, cozy dish that transforms a simple breakfast into a delightful feast. Imagine a chilly Sunday morning, where the smell of buttery bread, fresh blueberries, and a hint of cinnamon fills your home. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. The joy on their faces as they dug into the fluffy, custardy layers was priceless. This recipe isn’t just about the food; it’s about creating memories around the table.

What to Buy for Blueberry French Toast Bake

When it comes to making a scrumptious Blueberry French Toast Bake, the quality of your ingredients makes all the difference. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the final flavor and texture. The star of the show is the bread; a rich, sweet challah provides the perfect base. Fresh blueberries add a burst of sweetness and tang, while eggs and milk create a creamy custard that soaks the bread to perfection.

• 1 loaf challah bread (cut into 1-inch squares; about 8 cups) – This sweet, eggy bread is perfect for soaking up the custard mixture.
• 6 large eggs – Essential for creating a rich, creamy base for the bake.
• 3 cups whole milk – Adds creaminess and a delightful richness.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – For sweetness that balances the tartness of the blueberries.
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• 2 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen, plus a few additional for topping) – The star of the dish, providing bursts of flavor.
• pinch salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – To mix with cinnamon for topping.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – For that sweet, spiced topping.

Instructions for Blueberry French Toast Bake

Making Blueberry French Toast Bake is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready to impress your family and friends. Trust me, the smells wafting through your house will have everyone gathering in the kitchen.

1. Start by spreading the bread cubes on a large baking sheet or cutting board. Allow them to sit at room temperature to crisp up a bit, for at least one hour but up to eight hours. This step is crucial for achieving a delightful texture.
2. Next, butter a 9-inch by 12-inch baking dish generously. This ensures your Blueberry French Toast Bake won’t stick and makes for easier serving. Add half of the bread cubes (about 4 cups) into the dish.
3. Scatter the blueberries evenly on top of the first layer of bread. Then, add the remaining cubes over the berries. This layering ensures every bite is filled with flavor.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. You want the mixture to be well combined; it should look smooth and creamy.
5. Pour this custard mixture over the layered bread cubes and blueberries. Pat gently to help submerge the bread without crushing it. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight or for at least six hours. This soaking time allows the bread to absorb all that delicious flavor.
6. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is essential for even cooking…
7. In a small bowl, mix together the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. This topping will give your bake a beautiful, sweet crust.
8. Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and uncover it. Sprinkle the cinnamon and sugar mixture evenly over the top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is firm (no longer jiggly). If it begins to brown too much toward the end of baking, cover with a piece of foil.
10. Once done, cut into squares and serve warm with additional blueberries and maple syrup. Enjoy each bite of this delicious Blueberry French Toast Bake with a smile!

Recipe Variations about Blueberry French Toast Bake

One of the best things about Blueberry French Toast Bake is how easy it is to customize. Here are some fantastic ideas to make your dish even more special!

• Fruit Variations: Swap blueberries for other fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or even diced peaches for a different flavor profile.
• Cinnamon Roll Version: Use pre-made cinnamon roll dough instead of challah for an indulgent twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Add a layer of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for extra texture and flavor.
• Chocolate Chips: Mix in some chocolate chips along with the blueberries for a delightful surprise.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce on top before serving for added sweetness.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Vegan Version: Substitute plant-based milk and use a vegan egg substitute for a plant-friendly bake.

Serve This Blueberry French Toast Bake With

Now that your Blueberry French Toast Bake is ready, here’s how to serve it up for the ultimate breakfast experience!

• Maple Syrup: Drizzle warm maple syrup over each serving for added sweetness.
• Fresh Whipped Cream: Top with homemade whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
• Coffee: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea to round out your breakfast.
• Seasonal Fruits: Serve with a side of seasonal fruits like sliced strawberries or kiwis for a fresh contrast.
• Bacon or Sausage: While I won’t mention certain meats, you can always serve with your favorite breakfast protein on the side.
• Extra Blueberries: Garnish with more blueberries for a lovely presentation and flavor boost.
• Yogurt: A side of Greek yogurt can add a creamy element and balance the sweetness.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Blueberry French Toast Bake is a truly special dish that blends rich flavors with a comforting texture, making it perfect for any breakfast or brunch gathering. I encourage you to try making this delicious recipe, as it’s an experience that brings joy and satisfaction to every table. Enjoy creating beautiful memories with your loved ones as you savor every bite of this delightful bake.

Blueberry French Toast Bake

The ultimate comfort food, Blueberry French Toast Bake combines fluffy bread with sweet blueberries and a rich custard. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this easy dish will satisfy your cravings and keep everyone coming back for more!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 2 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 loaf challah bread cut into 1-inch squares; about 8 cups
• 6 large eggs
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 cups blueberries fresh or frozen, plus a few additional for topping
• 1 pinch salt
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Spread the bread cubes on a large baking sheet or cutting board and let sit at room temperature to crisp up a bit, at least 1 hour but up to 8.
2. Butter a 9-inch x 12-inch baking dish and add half of the bread cubes (4 cups). Scatter blueberries on top, then add remaining bread.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Pour over the bread cubes and blueberries. Pat gently to help submerge the bread. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 6 hours.
4. To bake, preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a small bowl, mix together the 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Remove casserole from refrigerator and uncover. Sprinkle the cinnamon and sugar mixture over the top.
5. Bake for 60 – 70 minutes, until golden brown and no longer jiggly. If it begins to brown too much toward the end of baking, cover with a piece of foil.
6. Cut into squares and serve with additional blueberries and maple syrup.

Notes

• Tip 1: You can use cinnamon swirl or other sweet eggy breads like brioche for a richer taste.
• Tip 2: Plant-based unsweetened milk like oat milk works well for a dairy-free option.
• Tip 3: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.
• Tip 4: Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees until warm.
• Tip 5: This dish is perfect for brunch gatherings or holiday breakfasts.

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Meet Jenna Miller

I’m the one who brought this group together. I’ve always believed that food tastes better when it’s shared, and I wanted to create a space that felt as warm and sunny as our home state. I’m usually the one writing our posts and helping Brooke develop our main course recipes. My favorite days are when we’re all in the kitchen together, music on, cooking up our next idea.