Blueberry Breakfast French Toast Bake

Name: Blueberry Breakfast French Toast Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 loaf of day-old bread, cubed; 2 cups fresh blueberries; 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Butter for greasing the baking dish

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Favorites

I love starting my day with a delicious and hearty breakfast, and this Blueberry Breakfast French Toast Bake has quickly become a favorite. The combination of fluffy bread, sweet blueberries, and creamy custard makes for a perfect morning dish. Plus, it can be prepared the night before, making it a great option for lazy weekends or special occasions. I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe with you all, as it’s not just satisfying, but also incredibly easy to make!

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-02-16T00:01:35.679Z

When I first tried making a French toast bake, I knew I needed to add a fruity twist. Using fresh blueberries not only brightens the dish but also adds a burst of sweetness that perfectly complements the custard. After several attempts, I found that letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so the next day, I just pop it in the oven.

One key tip I’ve learned is to use day-old bread. It absorbs the egg mixture better, resulting in a moist and delicious bake. The combination of creamy custard and blueberry goodness is something I crave, and I think you will too!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful balance of sweet and tart from the blueberries
Easy to prepare the night before for a hassle-free morning
Perfect for brunch gatherings or family breakfasts

Choosing the Right Bread

The choice of bread is essential for achieving the perfect texture in your Blueberry Breakfast French Toast Bake. A sturdy bread like a brioche or challah works exceptionally well, as their rich and soft texture allows them to absorb the custard mixture without falling apart. If you choose to use a more delicate bread, such as white bread, be cautious with the soaking time to prevent it from becoming overly mushy.

Using day-old bread is ideal for this recipe, as it has had time to dry out slightly, which helps it absorb the egg mixture more effectively. If you only have fresh bread, toasting the cubes in the oven for about 10-15 minutes can simulate the day-old effect, making them more robust for custard absorption.

The Importance of Soaking

While the recipe suggests refrigerating the assembled dish for at least 30 minutes, giving it a longer soak—preferably overnight—will greatly enhance the texture and flavor. This allows the custard to fully permeate the bread, resulting in a more cohesive bake that balances creamy and fluffy textures with the burst of fruitiness from the blueberries. Be sure to press down gently on the bread after pouring in the custard, ensuring every piece is well-coated.

If you're short on time and opt for a 30-minute soak, keep an eye on the baking process. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly to ensure your French toast bake is fully set, especially if the bread hasn't absorbed enough custard. Look for a golden, puffed top indicating that it's done.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Blueberry Breakfast French Toast Bake

1 loaf of day-old bread, cubed
2 cups fresh blueberries
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Butter for greasing the baking dish

Make sure to adjust the quantity of blueberries as per your taste!

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.

Layer the Bread and Blueberries

Spread half of the cubed bread in the prepared dish. Top with the fresh blueberries, then add the remaining bread cubes on top.

Make the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Combine and Refrigerate

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and blueberries. Gently press down to soak the bread. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).

Bake the Dish

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden and puffed. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Serve warm with maple syrup and additional blueberries if desired!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the blueberries with raspberries or strawberries for a different flavor. Adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving enhances the presentation.

Serving Suggestions

This Blueberry Breakfast French Toast Bake makes an impressive centerpiece when served at a brunch gathering. Consider pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness. If you want to elevate the presentation, sprinkle some fresh blueberries and a dusting of powdered sugar on top just before serving—it not only enhances the aesthetics but also complements the flavors beautifully.

You can also create a breakfast bar with an assortment of toppings such as sliced bananas, nuts, or yogurt, allowing guests to personalize their portions. This not only enhances the dish but encourages an element of fun during the meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish reheats wonderfully in the oven; simply cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. For a quicker option, you can also place individual portions in the microwave, heating them in 30-second increments until they reach your desired temperature.

To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy a slice, defrost it overnight in the refrigerator, and reheat as mentioned above for best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries; just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding them to the dish.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the milk with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.

→ Can I add other fruits?

Yes, feel free to add fruits like bananas or peaches for a variety of flavors!