Description
Blueberry French Toast Casserole with Lemon Cheesecake Filling is an indulgent breakfast dish perfect for special occasions. Combining juicy blueberries, a tangy cheesecake layer, and custardy French toast, this dish is easy to prepare ahead of time, making it ideal for a stress-free holiday or brunch gathering.
Ingredients
For the Lemon Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 ounces block cream cheese (at room temperature)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Casserole:
- 12 eggs
- 2 cups half and half
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 loaf French bread (torn into pieces)
- 1 1/2 cups blueberries (fresh or thawed frozen)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemon Cheesecake Filling: Beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice and mix until combined. Set aside.
- Make the Casserole Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, half and half, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the torn French bread pieces evenly in the dish. Pour half of the egg mixture over the bread, then spread the lemon cheesecake filling on top. Add the remaining egg mixture, ensuring all bread pieces are soaked.
- Refrigerate: Cover the casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Remove the plastic wrap and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the center.
- Make the Blueberry Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine blueberries, sugar, lemon juice, and zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries release their juice and the sauce thickens.
- Serve: Drizzle the blueberry sauce over the baked casserole and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute the blueberries with raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries for a different flavor.
- Add a streusel topping or chopped nuts for added texture before baking.
- Swap in sourdough, brioche, or challah bread for a more flavorful base.
- Omit the lemon cheesecake filling for a simpler French toast casserole.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
