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To make the Blueberry French Toast Casserole, gather these simple ingredients: - 1 loaf of challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes - 2 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed) - 6 large eggs - 2 cups whole milk - 1/2 cup maple syrup - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for greasing) - Powdered sugar (for serving) - Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional) Using challah bread gives the casserole a rich texture. Blueberries add natural sweetness and color. The eggs and milk create a creamy base. Maple syrup brings a lovely flavor. Vanilla and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth. Don't forget the powdered sugar for a sweet finish! You can use fresh mint as a nice touch for garnish. This list helps you prepare a delightful dish that is both easy and tasty. Each ingredient plays a role in creating a perfect breakfast or brunch treat. - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). - Grease the baking dish with butter. This helps the casserole not stick. - Spread half of the cubed challah bread evenly in the dish. - Sprinkle half of the blueberries over the bread. This gives a nice taste in every bite. - In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and spices. - Add maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth. - Pour the egg mixture over the layered bread and blueberries. - Ensure all pieces get soaked. Press down gently with a spatula. - You can cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. - If you want, you can skip this step to bake right away. - After chilling, let the casserole sit for 20 minutes at room temp. - Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown on top. - Let cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. - Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh mint leaves if you like. Challah bread and brioche both make great choices for this casserole. I prefer challah because it has a rich flavor and a soft texture. It soaks up the egg mixture well. Brioche is also tasty but can be a bit sweeter. If you like a sweeter dish, brioche might be your go-to. Both breads will give you a delicious meal. You can prepare this casserole the night before. Just cover it with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least one hour or overnight. This way, the bread absorbs the egg mix better. When you are ready to bake, take it out and let it sit for 20 minutes. This helps it bake evenly. Ovens can vary in how they cook. Keep an eye on your casserole while it bakes. If your oven runs hot, check it a few minutes early. If it runs cool, you might need to add a few more minutes. The top should be golden brown, and the inside should not jiggle when you shake it. Adjust the time based on your oven for perfect results. {{image_2}} You can change up the fruit in this dish. If blueberries are not in season, try other berries. Raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries all work great. You can also use sliced peaches or apples for a tasty twist. Just keep the same amount as the recipe calls for. Each fruit brings its own flavor and fun to the casserole. If you need a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread. Many stores sell gluten-free bread that tastes good. Look for bread that is soft and has a nice texture. You can also make your own gluten-free bread if you like. Just ensure it is sturdy enough to hold up to the egg mixture. To make this casserole vegan, swap out the eggs and milk. Use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. For eggs, you can use flaxseed meal or a store-bought egg replacer. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water to replace one egg. This will help keep the texture nice and fluffy. After your Blueberry French Toast Casserole cools, cut it into portions. Place the pieces in an airtight container. Store the casserole in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps it fresh and tasty for your next meal. You can freeze Blueberry French Toast Casserole for longer storage. Cut it into pieces and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice anytime within three months. To reheat the casserole, take a piece from the fridge or freezer. If frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge first. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole piece in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until warm. This method helps keep the texture soft and delicious. You can also use a microwave if you are in a hurry. Just heat for a minute or two, checking often to avoid overcooking. Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Thaw them first and drain excess water. This step helps keep the casserole from getting too soggy. You can gently pat them dry with a paper towel for best results. Frozen berries work well, but fresh ones add a nice burst of flavor. The casserole lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to cover it well with plastic wrap or foil. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from drying out. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for quick servings. Yes, you can make this recipe without eggs. Use mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce as substitutes. About 1/4 cup of either can replace one egg. This change may alter the texture slightly but still gives great flavor. You can add various toppings to your casserole. Some great options include whipped cream, fresh blueberries, or sliced almonds. A drizzle of extra maple syrup adds sweetness, while a sprinkle of powdered sugar makes it look fancy. Fresh mint leaves also add a nice touch. You know the casserole is done when the top is golden brown. The custard should also be set, not jiggly. You can insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving for the best texture. This casserole blends challah, blueberries, and spices into a delicious treat. You learned how to prepare, bake, and serve this dish with helpful tips. Remember, you can swap ingredients or make it ahead of time for convenience. Storing leftovers is simple, and reheating keeps it tasty. Experiment with toppings or different fruits for variety. Enjoy creating your very own breakfast masterpiece. Each bite will surely impress friends and family!

Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Delight your mornings with this Blueberry Bliss French Toast Casserole! This easy recipe features layers of buttery challah bread and plump blueberries, soaked in a creamy vanilla custard, perfect for brunch with family or friends. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can prepare this mouthwatering dish ahead of time.
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Ingredients
  

1 loaf of challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

2 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)

6 large eggs

2 cups whole milk

1/2 cup maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for greasing)

Powdered sugar (for serving)

Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Casserole Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with the softened butter.

    Layer the Bread and Blueberries: In the greased dish, spread half of the cubed challah bread evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle half of the fresh blueberries on top of the bread. Repeat with the remaining challah and blueberries.

      Mix the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

        Combine the Mixture with Bread: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread and blueberries, ensuring all pieces are soaked through. Gently press down the bread with a spatula to help it absorb the liquid.

          Chill (Optional): For a make-ahead option, cover the casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.

            Bake the Casserole: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator if chilled and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

              Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve warm, drizzled with extra maple syrup if preferred.

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 8-10 servings