Blueberry French Toast
A delightful blueberry French toast bake featuring creamy cheese, fresh blueberries, and a sweet maple syrup topping, perfect for brunch gatherings or weekend indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and place half in a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Cut the cream cheese into 1-inch cubes and distribute over the bread.
- Top with 1 cup of blueberries and the remaining bread cubes.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.
- Add the milk and maple syrup (or honey) to the eggs and mix well.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered bread, cream cheese, and blueberries.
- Cover the dish and chill in the refrigerator for 8 hours or overnight.
- Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until golden brown and the center is set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before cutting. If fresh blueberries aren't available, frozen ones work just as well; simply add them directly without thawing. Additionally, consider using whole grain bread for a healthier twist. For a fun variation, try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the egg mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Blueberry French Toast warm, drizzled with extra maple syrup or honey. Accompany it with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a savory contrast. Fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream can also enhance the dish. It pairs beautifully with Sandy's Zucchini Bread for a delightful brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes for a crispier texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blueberry French Toast contains roughly 830 calories, with 11g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 578mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it the night before and let it chill in the refrigerator overnight. Just remember to remove it 30 minutes before baking to bring it to room temperature for even cooking.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for cream cheese, you can use mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a different flavor profile. For a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt, although it may alter the texture slightly.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this Blueberry French Toast gluten-free, simply substitute the white bread with gluten-free bread. Make sure to check that all other ingredients, like syrup and sugar, are also gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).