Imagine waking up to the tantalizing aroma of warm maple syrup and fresh blueberries wafting through your kitchen. The Maple Blueberry French Toast Casserole is not just a breakfast dish; it’s a delightful experience that transforms your morning routine into a special occasion. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy brunch with friends, this easy-to-make casserole combines the rich flavors of buttery bread, sweet maple syrup, and juicy blueberries into one irresistible dish. Get ready to impress your loved ones and make your mornings unforgettable with this scrumptious recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread (e.g., challah or brioche)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly and thoroughly.
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking.
- Cut the loaf of bread into 1-inch cubes. If you are using challah or brioche, the texture will make for a rich and fluffy casserole.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 6 large eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1/2 cup of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until fully combined and frothy.
- Add the bread cubes to the egg mixture, gently folding them in to ensure that all pieces are soaked. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes so the bread can absorb the liquid.
- While the bread is soaking, rinse the 2 cups of fresh blueberries under cold water and drain them well. If desired, you can toss them with a tablespoon of flour to help prevent them from sinking in the casserole.
- After the bread has soaked, gently fold in the blueberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This will help the casserole to steam and set properly.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the center.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will make it easier to cut and serve.
- For serving, drizzle additional maple syrup over the top if desired and garnish with extra blueberries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
- Enjoy your delicious Maple Blueberry French Toast Casserole warm, perfect for breakfast or brunch!
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For a rich and fluffy casserole, opt for challah or brioche. Their texture absorbs the egg mixture beautifully, making every bite a delight.
- Soak Time is Key: Allow the bread cubes to soak in the egg mixture for at least 10 minutes. This step ensures that every piece is infused with flavor and moisture, resulting in a perfectly custardy texture.
- Fresh Blueberries: Use fresh blueberries for the best flavor. If you want to prevent them from sinking, toss them lightly in flour before adding them to the mixture.
- Cover While Baking: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil for the first 30 minutes of baking to help it steam and set properly. Removing the foil for the last 15 minutes allows the top to become golden and slightly crispy.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared the night before! Just assemble it, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. In the morning, pop it in the oven for a hassle-free breakfast.
- Garnish for Presentation: Drizzle with extra maple syrup and sprinkle some powdered sugar or additional blueberries on top before serving for a beautiful presentation.
- Serve Warm: Enjoy your Maple Blueberry French Toast Casserole warm, and don’t forget the whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 180mg
