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Blueberry French Toast Casserole

A delightful French toast casserole filled with creamy layers of sweet cream cheese and fresh blueberries, perfect for brunch or special gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 1 loaf French baguettes The foundation of this casserole.
  • 8 oz cream cheese Adds a rich and creamy layer.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Enhances sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar Sweetens the cream cheese mixture.
  • 2 cups fresh blueberries Provides juicy bursts of flavor.
  • 5 large eggs Binds ingredients together.
  • 2 cups milk Contributes creaminess.
  • 1/2 cup sugar Balances flavor in the custard mixture.
  • 1 tsp cinnamon Adds warmth to the flavor.
  • maple syrup for serving Perfect sweet companion.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Spray a 9×13 baking dish with baking spray for easy release.
  2. Cut the French baguettes into 1-inch thick slices, leaving the bottom part connected for a pocket.
  3. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and vanilla until smooth, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar until fully incorporated.
  4. Gently add the fresh blueberries to the cream cheese mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
  5. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly between the sliced baguette pockets, generously stuffing each one.
  6. Place the filled baguettes vertically in the prepared baking dish to fit snugly.
  7. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, 1/2 cup of sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  8. Pour the egg mixture over the baguettes, ensuring they are well soaked in the custard.
  9. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight for optimal flavor absorption.
Baking
  1. The next day, preheat your oven to 350°F.
  2. Combine 1/4 cup sugar with cinnamon in a small bowl, mixing well.
  3. Evenly distribute the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the baguettes before baking.
  4. Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the egg mixture is set.
  5. Cover the dish with foil for the last 15-20 minutes of baking to avoid excessive browning.
  6. Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, and serve warm with pure maple syrup.

Notes

For best results, consider using stale baguettes to absorb the custard effectively. Don't rush the chilling time; it's crucial for flavor melding. Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving for elegance.