Name: Pioneer Woman Blueberry Lemon French Toast Casserole Overnight Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 12 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf of day-old bread (about 10-12 slices), cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 large eggs; 2 cups milk (or dairy alternative); 1 cup heavy cream (or dairy alternative); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; Pinch of salt; 2 cups fresh blueberries

Description

This delightful Blueberry Lemon French Toast Casserole is a perfect make-ahead breakfast or brunch dish. Combining the fresh flavors of blueberries and lemon with a rich custard soaked into day-old bread, this casserole bakes to a golden, custardy perfection. Prepare it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning for an easy and impressive meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

1 loaf of day-old bread (about 10-12 slices), cut into 1-inch cubes

Custard Mixture

4 large eggs
2 cups milk (or dairy alternative)
1 cup heavy cream (or dairy alternative)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt

Fruit

2 cups fresh blueberries

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the bread: Cut the day-old bread into 1-inch cubes and evenly place them in a 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring a sturdy base for the custard to soak into.
Mix the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Combine custard and bread: Pour the custard over the bread cubes in the baking dish, gently stirring to coat all the bread pieces evenly. Sprinkle the fresh blueberries over the top and fold them in gently.
Refrigerate overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator overnight to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard and flavors.
Bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake the casserole uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes after baking to firm up slightly. Serve warm and enjoy this fresh, flavorful breakfast dish.

Notes

Using day-old bread helps the custard soak better, preventing the casserole from becoming soggy.
You can substitute the heavy cream and milk with dairy alternatives like almond milk or oat milk for a lighter version.
Feel free to sprinkle powdered sugar or drizzle maple syrup on top before serving for added sweetness.
To make it ahead, prepare the casserole the night before and bake in the morning for fresh, warm French toast.