Introduction
Wake up to the delightful aroma of freshly baked Blueberry Lemon French Toast Casserole! This easy overnight recipe is perfect for busy mornings, special occasions, or lazy weekends. With its luscious layers of fluffy bread, sweet blueberries, and a hint of zesty lemon, it’s a breakfast that will make everyone at your table smile.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread, cut into cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- Maple syrup, for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, baking powder, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer the cubed bread evenly across the bottom.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread, ensuring all cubes are soaked.
- Gently fold in the blueberries, distributing them evenly through the mixture.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, allowing the bread to soak up the egg mixture.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F the next morning.
- Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving, drizzled with maple syrup if desired.
Notes or Tips
- For added flavor, you can substitute the blueberries with raspberries or strawberries.
- This casserole can be prepared up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- Serve with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of indulgence.
Cooking Techniques
The key to a perfectly baked French toast casserole lies in allowing the bread to soak thoroughly in the egg mixture overnight. This ensures each bite is rich and flavorful, creating a moist and satisfying breakfast.
FAQ
- Can I use stale bread for this recipe? Yes, stale bread works wonderfully as it absorbs the egg mixture better.
- Is it possible to make this gluten-free? Absolutely! Use gluten-free bread to enjoy the same delicious flavors.
- How long can leftovers be stored? You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
This Blueberry Lemon French Toast Casserole is not just breakfast; it’s a memory in the making. Perfect for gatherings with family and friends or a cozy brunch at home, this dish will surely become a favorite on your breakfast table!