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Overnight Blueberry Lemon French Toast Casserole – Easy Pioneer-Style Breakfast Bake

A soft, creamy overnight blueberry lemon French toast casserole bursting with fresh flavors. Perfect for effortless brunch mornings and family gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

Cream Cheese Filling

  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1/2 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup blueberries
  • Zest of 1 lemon + 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

French Toast Base

  • 2 loaves French bread, cubed
  • 2 cups milk
  • 8 large eggs
  • 1/2 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
  • Zest of 1 lemon + 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup blueberries

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Creamy Filling
    In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and half of the vanilla until smooth.
    Fold in 1 cup blueberries, lemon zest, and 1 tbsp lemon juice.
    The berries may burst slightly—this is normal and adds color and flavor.
  • Assemble the Casserole
    Grease a 10×14-inch baking dish.
    Add half the bread cubes to the dish.
    Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bread.
    Add the remaining bread cubes on top.
  • Make the Custard
    Whisk together milk, eggs, remaining vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon zest, and 1 tbsp lemon juice.
    Slowly pour the custard over the bread layers, making sure everything gets soaked.
    Scatter the remaining blueberries over the top.
  • Chill Overnight
    Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate 8 hours or overnight for maximum absorption and flavor.
  • Bake the Casserole
    Remove from fridge and let rest for 30–60 minutes at room temperature.
    Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
    Bake 45 minutes covered, then 30 minutes uncovered until golden and set.
    Cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Bread can vary in absorption—add an extra splash of milk if it looks too dry.
  • If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
  • Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.