Print

Overnight Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole Recipe

4.5 from 126 reviews

This Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole is a delightful make-ahead breakfast dish featuring layers of soft French baguette slices spread with a luscious blueberry cream cheese mixture. Bathed in a rich custard and baked until golden brown, it’s finished with a warm, buttery maple syrup topping for a perfect balance of sweetness and comfort. Ideal for a special brunch or weekend treat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the French Toast

  • 2 (12 inch long) French Baguettes, cut into 1/2 inch slices (discard the ends)
  • 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 2 cups blueberries
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream or milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

  • 1/2 stick butter
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Casserole Dish: Lightly butter a 3-quart casserole dish to prevent sticking and set aside.
  2. Make Blueberry Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer or large spoon to combine softened cream cheese with maple syrup and cinnamon until smooth, then gently fold in the blueberries without crushing them.
  3. Assemble Bread Slices: Spread about one tablespoon of the blueberry cream cheese mixture evenly on one side of each bread slice. Place the slices, spread side up, in a single layer filling the prepared baking dish.
  4. Mix Custard: In a glass measuring cup or medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream or milk, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
  5. Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the arranged bread slices, ensuring all are thoroughly soaked.
  6. Refrigerate to Marinate: Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the bread to absorb the custard and flavors.
  7. Preheat Oven: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  8. Bake Covered: Place the foil-covered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes to cook through gently.
  9. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes to achieve a golden brown top.
  10. Prepare the Topping: While baking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in brown sugar until smooth, then add maple syrup and cinnamon, stirring to blend thoroughly.
  11. Serve: Drizzle the warm maple butter topping over the baked French toast casserole just before serving for a rich, sweet finish.

Notes

  • For best results, allow the casserole to refrigerate overnight to fully absorb flavors.
  • Can be prepared up to one day in advance and kept refrigerated before baking.
  • Use heavy cream for richer custard or milk for a lighter option.
  • Frozen blueberries may be used if fresh are unavailable, but reduce the amount slightly to avoid excess moisture.
  • For easier slicing, use day-old bread to help maintain structure during soaking.
  • If preferred, substitute cream cheese with a vegan or dairy-free alternative for dietary needs.

Keywords: blueberry, french toast casserole, overnight, breakfast, brunch, cream cheese, maple syrup, baked french toast