This Overnight Blueberry French Toast is a sweet and simple treat for breakfast. Soft bread soaked in a creamy egg mixture, topped with juicy blueberries, makes it a must-try!
Imagine waking up to a delicious breakfast that’s already made. I love tossing a few extra blueberries on top—because you can never have too many, right? 🍇
It’s super easy to prepare the night before. Just pop it in the oven in the morning and enjoy a warm, tasty meal. Perfect for lazy weekends or special occasions!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Thick slices of brioche or challah are perfect for this recipe because they soak up the custard beautifully. If you’re looking for alternatives, try using sourdough or whole grain bread. Just avoid regular sandwich bread as it might fall apart.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries add a burst of flavor, but frozen ones work too! They are convenient and usually less expensive. If you have other berries on hand, such as raspberries or strawberries, feel free to mix those in.
Heavy Cream: The heavy cream adds richness to the dish. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk. Just remember, it won’t be as creamy, but still delicious!
Sweetener: Granulated sugar is common here, but you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor. For a healthier option, try maple syrup or honey. Just adjust the amount since liquid sweeteners can change the consistency.
How Do I Get the Best Texture in My French Toast?
The secret to a great texture is letting the bread soak long enough. This overnight method allows the bread to fully soak in the egg mixture, making it soft on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside when baked. Here’s how to do it:
- Press down the bread gently after pouring the egg mixture to ensure every piece absorbs some liquid.
- Let it sit in the fridge overnight. This time allows the flavors to meld and makes the bread soft and custardy in the morning.
Remember not to skip the baking step. Baking straight from the fridge not only helps the custard set but also creates a wonderful puff that will impress your family and friends!
Overnight Blueberry French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the French Toast:
- 1 loaf thick bread (such as brioche or challah), cut into large cubes (about 8 cups)
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing the pan)
For Serving:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
- Maple syrup, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 6 hours or more for chilling overnight. Baking takes about 45 to 55 minutes. Overall, it’s a simple make-ahead breakfast perfect for any busy morning or special brunch occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Start by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter. This will help prevent the French toast from sticking to the pan.
2. Assemble the Bread:
Next, place the cubed bread evenly into the prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s spread out well so the egg mixture can soak into all the pieces.
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, salt, and melted butter. Make sure everything is well combined and smooth.
4. Coat the Bread with the Mixture:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, gently pressing the bread down with your hands or a spatula to help it soak up the liquid.
5. Add the Blueberries:
Sprinkle the fresh or frozen blueberries evenly on top of the soaked bread. This will give a burst of flavor in every bite!
6. Chill Overnight:
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill overnight or for at least 6 hours to allow the bread to absorb all the yummy flavors.
7. Preheat and Bake:
The next morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once it’s ready, remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish and bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and the custard to be set.
8. Cool and Serve:
After baking, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If you like, dust the top with powdered sugar and serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of maple syrup.
9. Enjoy!
Your comforting, fruity Overnight Blueberry French Toast is ready to be enjoyed! Perfect for sharing with family and friends.
This make-ahead breakfast is sure to please everyone and make your morning special with minimal effort. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While brioche and challah are ideal for their texture, you can also use sourdough, whole grain, or even gluten-free bread. Just ensure it’s thick enough to hold the custard without falling apart.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or additional whole milk if you’re looking for a lighter option. Keep in mind that skipping the cream will result in a less rich texture, but it will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through.
Can I Use Frozen Blueberries?
Yes, frozen blueberries work perfectly in this recipe. There’s no need to thaw them; just sprinkle them directly on top of the bread before refrigerating. They may result in a bit more juice in the dish, adding extra flavor!