Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful breakfast to impress your family or guests, look no further than this Blueberry Lemon French Toast Casserole! Bursting with vibrant flavors, this dish combines the sweetness of fresh blueberries with the zesty brightness of lemon, all nestled in rich and creamy custard-soaked French bread. Perfect for lazy weekends or special occasions, it’s a make-ahead recipe that allows you to wake up to a warm, comforting breakfast with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this breakfast dream!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread, cut into cubes
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Maple syrup, for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup later.
- Layer the cubed French bread evenly at the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle the fresh blueberries and zest of the lemon generously over the bread.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- Pour this creamy egg mixture over the bread and blueberry layers, making sure every piece of bread is well-soaked.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator overnight. This will allow the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb all that delicious custard.
- The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and hot for baking.
- Once preheated, remove the plastic wrap from your baking dish and place it in the oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Serve warm, drizzled generously with maple syrup, and enjoy the sweet morning indulgence!
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a dash of nutmeg to the egg mixture. If you want to make this recipe lighter, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with additional milk. This casserole also pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar when served!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes the technique of overnight soaking, which allows the flavors to fully integrate and the bread to absorb the custard mixture. Baking it at the right temperature ensures a perfect golden top while keeping the inside soft and moist. Monitoring the casserole in the oven will help achieve that desired texture!
FAQ
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work just as well in this casserole. Just make sure to toss them with a little bit of flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom while baking.
How long can I store leftovers?
You can keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I prepare this casserole without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute the eggs with a mixture of silken tofu or a commercial egg replacer for a vegan version, but the texture may differ somewhat.
Conclusion
This Blueberry Lemon French Toast Casserole is not only a feast for the taste buds but a charming centerpiece for any breakfast table. Its ease of preparation means you can focus on what truly matters—enjoying a lovely morning with your loved ones. Whether it’s a festive brunch or a cozy family breakfast, this dish is sure to delight and impress. So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to indulge in a delicious tradition!