Go Back
A delicious Blueberry Lemon French Toast Casserole, baked to golden perfection

Classic Blueberry Lemon French Toast Casserole

This delightful casserole combines fluffy challah or brioche bread with a rich, lemony custard and bursts of fresh blueberries, baked to golden perfection. It's an ideal dish for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 12 hours
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 12 hours 50 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • large bowl
  • whisk
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • plastic wrap
  • small bowl
  • pastry blender or fingertips
  • oven

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 loaf Challah or Brioche bread (13-16 oz), cubed
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, unthawed)

Optional Topping

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
  • 1/2 tsp lemon zest

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and dry them on a baking sheet for at least an hour, or toast lightly in the oven.
  • Whisk eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, lemon zest, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl to create the custard.
  • Gently toss the dried bread cubes with the custard mixture until fully coated, then fold in the fresh blueberries.
  • Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Topping & Baking

  • For the optional topping, combine flour and sugar, then cut in cold butter and lemon zest until crumbly; refrigerate.
  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), remove casserole from refrigerator, and sprinkle with optional streusel topping if using.
  • Bake for 40-50 minutes until golden brown and set; tent with foil if the topping browns too quickly.
  • Let cool for 5-10 minutes, then serve with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or maple syrup if desired.

Notes

For best results, allow the bread to dry out completely, and refrigerate the casserole overnight to allow the flavors to meld. You can also prepare individual portions in ramekins for a personalized touch.