Easy & Delicious Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole

There’s something undeniably comforting about waking up to the sweet aroma of baked French toast, fresh blueberries, and rich cream cheese filling. The Easy & Delicious Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is the perfect way to start a weekend morning, celebrate a special occasion, or simply indulge in a cozy breakfast at home. This dish blends the soft, custardy texture of baked French toast with a tangy, creamy center and the natural sweetness of fresh blueberries, creating a breakfast experience that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

This recipe was inspired by the desire to create a stress-free yet impressive dish for family gatherings. Instead of standing over the stove flipping individual slices, you prepare everything the night before, let it soak overnight, and bake in the morning. It’s a recipe that brings comfort and joy, reminding many of lazy Sunday mornings or holiday brunch traditions where food, laughter, and conversation flow effortlessly. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself, this casserole is designed to delight every palate.

Ingredients

For the French Toast Layer:

• 1 loaf of day-old brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup fresh blueberries

• 6 large eggs

• 1 ½ cups whole milk

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup granulated sugar

For the Topping:

• ½ cup brown sugar

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the French Toast Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and spread half of them evenly in the prepared dish.

2. Add the Cream Cheese and Blueberries

Slice the softened cream cheese into small pieces and scatter it over the layer of bread cubes. Sprinkle the fresh blueberries evenly on top, then add the remaining bread cubes, creating a layered effect with cream cheese and blueberries in the center.

3. Mix the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread, pressing down gently to ensure all the cubes absorb the liquid.

4. Let It Soak

Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the bread to fully soak up the custard, ensuring a rich, creamy texture after baking.

5. Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If desired, mix in the chopped nuts for added crunch and flavor.

6. Bake the Casserole

Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and sprinkle the topping evenly over the soaked bread. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.

7. Cool and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream if desired. Fresh blueberries or a few extra nuts on top make a beautiful finishing touch.

Tips for the Perfect Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole

1. Use Day-Old Bread – Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better without becoming mushy. Brioche or challah provides the perfect soft, slightly sweet base.

2. Room Temperature Ingredients – Bring cream cheese, eggs, and milk to room temperature to help the custard mix smoothly and bake evenly.

3. Fresh vs. Frozen Blueberries – Fresh blueberries are ideal, but frozen blueberries work well too. Just make sure to thaw and drain them slightly to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

4. Make Ahead – This casserole is perfect for overnight preparation. Assemble it the night before and bake in the morning for a stress-free breakfast or brunch.

5. Custard Flavors – Add a pinch of nutmeg or orange zest for a subtle twist on the classic flavor profile.

6. Storage – Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Why This Recipe Is a Crowd-Pleaser

Blueberries and cream cheese are a classic pairing, but when baked into a French toast casserole, they create a luxurious texture and flavor combination that feels indulgent yet approachable. Families and guests love that it’s a one-dish breakfast, which saves time without sacrificing presentation. The sweet, buttery topping adds a delightful crunch, contrasting perfectly with the custardy interior.

This casserole works for all occasions. Make it for holiday mornings, weekend brunches, or even a special treat for a birthday breakfast. It’s visually appealing, easy to portion, and offers a mix of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.

Variations to Try

1. Mixed Berry French Toast Casserole – Add raspberries and blackberries alongside the blueberries for a colorful, tangy twist.

2. Chocolate Chip Delight – Sprinkle mini chocolate chips between the layers for a sweeter version that kids will love.

3. Almond Bliss – Substitute walnuts or pecans with slivered almonds and add a drop of almond extract to the custard.

4. Lemon Zest Boost – Add lemon zest to the custard and a thin layer of lemon glaze on top after baking for a fresh, bright flavor.

5. Cinnamon Swirl – Mix brown sugar and cinnamon into the cream cheese layer for an extra touch of spice and sweetness.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

• Maple Syrup – Classic pairing that enhances the sweetness and ties all the flavors together.

• Whipped Cream or Mascarpone – Adds a rich, creamy element for an elegant brunch presentation.

• Fresh Fruit Garnish – Sliced strawberries, extra blueberries, or kiwi slices add color and freshness.

• Coffee or Tea – A hot cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the rich, sweet flavors of the casserole perfectly.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus soaking time)

• Cook Time: 45-55 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (plus soaking time)

• Yield: Serves 8-10

Notes

• For an extra creamy texture, consider using half-and-half instead of whole milk in the custard.

• Avoid using very soft or pre-sliced bread that may turn too mushy during soaking.

• The topping can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

• This recipe can easily be doubled for a larger crowd; just use a 9×15-inch baking dish and adjust baking time slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen blueberries for this casserole?
Yes, frozen blueberries can be used, but there are a few tips to ensure the best results. When using frozen berries, it’s important to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid. This helps prevent the casserole from becoming too watery, which can make the bread soggy instead of custardy. You can gently pat the berries dry with a paper towel after thawing. Additionally, frozen blueberries may release a bit more juice while baking, which can actually create a naturally sweet sauce within the casserole. If you prefer a firmer texture, adding the berries on top of the bread layers rather than mixed in the custard can help maintain their shape. Using frozen berries is a convenient option, especially when fresh blueberries are out of season, and they still provide plenty of natural flavor and color.

2. Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Absolutely! This casserole can easily be adapted for those who are dairy-free or vegan. Simply substitute plant-based milk, such as almond, oat, or soy milk, in place of whole milk. For the cream cheese layer, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, which is widely available in most grocery stores. The topping can also be modified by using vegan butter instead of regular butter. While the flavor might be slightly different, the texture will remain rich and custardy, and the casserole will still bake beautifully. This makes it an inclusive recipe that anyone, regardless of dietary restrictions, can enjoy. You can also experiment with adding coconut cream for an extra creamy custard or sprinkling some coconut sugar in the topping for a subtle twist.

3. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! One of the best features of this Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is that it can be prepared the night before. Simply assemble all the layers of bread, cream cheese, blueberries, and custard, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to soak up the custard fully, resulting in a richer, creamier texture when baked. In the morning, remove it from the fridge, add the topping, and bake as directed. Preparing it ahead of time is ideal for holiday mornings, brunch gatherings, or any occasion where you want a stress-free breakfast that feels special.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30–60 seconds or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 325°F until heated through. This method helps retain the custardy interior and slightly crisp topping. For a quick refresh, you can sprinkle a few fresh blueberries or a light dusting of powdered sugar over the reheated casserole before serving. While it’s best enjoyed the day it’s baked, proper storage ensures that you can enjoy the delicious flavors for several mornings afterward.

This Easy & Delicious Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is a celebration of flavors, textures, and the joy of sharing a comforting breakfast with loved ones. It combines the elegance of baked French toast with the ease of a make-ahead recipe, making it ideal for both casual mornings and special occasions. By following these tips and variations, you can create a dish that’s uniquely yours while keeping it crowd-pleasing and unforgettable.

Easy & Delicious Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (plus soaking time)
• Yield: 8–10 servings 1x

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Description

A cozy breakfast or brunch favorite, this Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole combines soft, custardy baked bread with a creamy, tangy center and sweet, juicy blueberries. Perfect for weekend mornings, holiday gatherings, or any special occasion, this recipe is simple to prepare ahead of time and always impresses family and friends.

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Ingredients

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• 1 loaf of day-old brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup fresh blueberries

• 6 large eggs

• 1 ½ cups whole milk

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup granulated sugar

Topping:

• ½ cup brown sugar

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

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Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and place half in the dish.

• Slice the cream cheese and scatter over the bread layer. Sprinkle blueberries on top, then cover with remaining bread cubes.

• In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Pour over the layered bread, pressing gently to soak.

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

• In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Cut in butter until coarse crumbs form. Add nuts if desired.

• Remove casserole from fridge and sprinkle topping evenly. Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, until golden and set.

• Let cool 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with maple syrup or extra blueberries.

Notes

• Day-old bread works best to absorb the custard without becoming mushy.

• Room-temperature ingredients help the custard mix smoothly.

• Frozen blueberries can be used if thawed and drained.

• For a dairy-free version, substitute plant-based milk, dairy-free cream cheese, and vegan butter.

• Assemble the casserole the night before for an easy, stress-free breakfast.

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to 3 days; reheat in the oven or microwave.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus soaking time)
• Cook Time: 45–55 minutes

Michelle Davis