Description
This Easy Lemon Blueberry Strata is a bright and refreshing make-ahead breakfast bake that’s perfect for brunch gatherings, holidays, or lazy weekend mornings. With layers of soft bread soaked in a creamy lemon-infused custard and dotted with juicy blueberries, this dish delivers the ideal balance of sweetness and citrus. It’s simple to prepare, beautiful to serve, and guaranteed to impress anyone who tries it.
Ingredients
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8 cups cubed day-old French bread or brioche (about 1 loaf)
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2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries (do not thaw if frozen)
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6 large eggs
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2 ½ cups whole milk
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½ cup heavy cream
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⅓ cup granulated sugar
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¼ cup brown sugar
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2 tablespoons lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
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2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
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½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
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¼ teaspoon salt
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2 tablespoons melted butter (for drizzling)
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Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
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Maple syrup or whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions
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Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Arrange half of the cubed bread evenly in the dish.
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Sprinkle half of the blueberries and lemon zest over the bread. Add the remaining bread, then top with the rest of the blueberries and zest.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
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Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently to ensure all cubes absorb the liquid.
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Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
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When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the strata from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes.
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Drizzle the melted butter over the top. Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until puffed, golden, and set in the center.
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Let the strata cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup or whipped cream if desired.
Notes
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Day-old or slightly stale bread works best to absorb the custard without getting soggy.
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If using fresh bread, toast the cubes lightly before assembling.
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Frozen blueberries can be used straight from the freezer; do not thaw to prevent discoloration.
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To make ahead, assemble the strata the night before and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.
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Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
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Reheat in a 325°F oven until warmed through or microwave individual portions for 30 seconds.
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Try variations like mixed berries, a cream cheese swirl, or a streusel topping for added texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes