Easy Blueberry French Toast Bake Recipe
Breakfast has always held a special place in my heart as the most delightful meal of the day, and what better way to start a morning than with an Easy Blueberry French Toast Bake? This warm, comforting dish combines classic flavors with modern convenience, making it a perfect choice for busy mornings or leisurely weekend brunches. Simple to prepare ahead of time, this recipe will leave your taste buds dancing and your kitchen filled with an irresistible aroma.
I remember my grandmother pulling out this recipe whenever we had blueberries in abundance. Her kitchen was always filled with laughter and the sweet scent of cinnamon. She would hum softly to the tune of her favorite jazz records as she prepared this dish. Serving it to the family, she’d delight in watching us enjoy each bite, often reminiscing about her own childhood adventures picking wild blueberries. To this day, this dish is a tribute to those cherished family moments and the love that food can convey.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This french toast bake is every host’s dream come true — it’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. You can assemble it the night before, allowing for a restful morning, and pop it in the oven with minimal effort. The combination of rich custard-soaked bread with juicy blueberries promises a satisfying, balanced flavor that works for both sweet and tart palettes. Plus, who can resist a dish that effortlessly serves a crowd, making it perfect for those festive gathering or family brunches?
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and flexibility. You’ll need sturdy, day-old bread like brioche or challah to absorb the custard without turning mushy. Fresh blueberries are ideal, but if they’re out of season, frozen ones work just as well. A hint of vanilla extract brings warmth, while cinnamon adds an aromatic touch. You can substitute non-dairy milk for a lactose-free version, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in some lemon zest for a zesty kick.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and evenly spread them in the dish. Make sure the bread is slightly dry to better absorb the custard.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined. Pour the mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked. For best results, let it sit for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight.
Step 3
Sprinkle the blueberries evenly over the bread mixture, pressing some slightly into the custard to incorporate the flavors well. You can add chopped nuts for an extra crunch if desired.
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Step 4
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Step 5
Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. For a delightful finish, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup. Serve warm and enjoy!
Storage Options
To keep leftovers fresh, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer portions to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped in foil and place them in a ziplock bag; they can be kept for up to one month. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a low oven (around 325°F) until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions
Get creative by swapping blueberries with other seasonal fruits such as strawberries or raspberries. You can also incorporate a cream cheese mixture layered between the bread for added richness. For a unique twist, try adding a splash of bourbon or rum into the custard for a deeper flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This dish shines brightest at brunch, served with a side of crispy bacon or your favorite breakfast sausage links. It’s also a delightful dessert option, paired perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. On special occasions, prepare it as a comforting Christmas morning tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! This recipe is ideal for busy schedules as it can be prepared the night before. Simply refrigerate it covered overnight to allow the flavors to meld. In the morning, pop it into the oven for a stress-free breakfast.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free? Certainly! Substitute regular milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or any other plant-based milk of your choice. Ensure that the bread you’re using aligns with your dietary needs to keep the recipe entirely dairy-free.
What if I don’t have fresh blueberries? No problem! Frozen blueberries make an excellent alternative and can be added straight from the freezer. Alternatively, any berries you enjoy can be used, such as blackberries or raspberries.
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Easy Blueberry French Toast Bake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread day-old, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 8 eggs large
- 2 cups milk whole
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.75 cup sugar granulated
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the blueberries over the bread. Top with remaining bread cubes and blueberries.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and blueberries. Press gently to ensure the bread is soaked.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Let the French toast bake cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
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