Dessert

Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole Recipe

BySimon Carel December 10, 2025December 10, 2025

Introduction

This Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole is a perfect make-ahead breakfast that combines creamy layers and fresh blueberries in every bite. It’s ideal for weekend mornings or special occasions when you want something both comforting and impressive without the last-minute fuss.

A white baking dish filled with a layered blueberry cobbler sits on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a thick, dark purple blueberry filling with whole blueberries scattered throughout, creating a juicy and glossy texture. On top, there are uneven chunks of golden-brown baked dough, slightly crisp and browned on edges, with some lighter, soft inner parts showing. The dough pieces are spread out but do not cover the blueberry layer completely, letting the vibrant color peek through. In the blurred background, there is a white pot holding bright pink flowers and a small stack of white plates with a spoon resting on top near a window with soft natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup blueberries (for cream cheese mixture)
8 oz cream cheese, softened (preferably Philadelphia Cream Cheese)
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tbsp vanilla extract (divided, half for cream cheese, half for egg mixture)
2 tbsp whole milk (for cream cheese mixture)
2 loaves French bread, cubed (day-old works best)
1 cup blueberries (for topping)
1 tsp cinnamon
2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
8 large eggs
1/2 tsp nutmeg

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 1 cup of blueberries to distribute evenly.
Step 2: Layer the bottom of a 10×14-inch baking dish with half of the cubed French bread. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bread. Top with the remaining bread cubes to form a second layer.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups milk, eggs, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered bread. Sprinkle 1 cup of blueberries on top.
Step 4: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight. Remove from the refrigerator 30 to 60 minutes before baking.
Step 5: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole covered with foil for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the center is set and the top is lightly browned.
Step 6: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your creamy, fruity breakfast treat!

Tips & Variations

Day-old French bread soaks up the custard better without becoming too mushy.
Use fresh or frozen blueberries depending on availability; if frozen, do not thaw before mixing.
Add a drizzle of maple syrup or dusting of powdered sugar before serving for extra sweetness.
For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes, or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven until heated through. This casserole also freezes well; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a square piece of blueberry cobbler on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. The cobbler has three layers: the top layer is golden brown and slightly crispy with sugar crystals visible, the middle layer is soft baked dough with scattered whole blueberries creating dark purple spots, and the bottom layer is rich blueberry filling with a thick, juicy texture. Around the plate are several fresh blueberries scattered casually. In the upper right corner, a white baking dish holds the rest of the cobbler, with the same golden top and dark blueberry filling bubbling around the edges. A soft gray and white striped cloth is partly visible on the left side, adding a cozy touch. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, sturdy breads like brioche or challah work well, but French bread is preferred for its texture and ability to absorb the custard without falling apart.

Do I have to soak it overnight?

While soaking overnight yields the best texture and flavor, you can soak it for at least 4 hours if you’re short on time. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard mixture.