Lemon Blueberry French Toast

This lemon blueberry French toast casserole transforms ordinary bread into a delightful breakfast treat that balances tangy citrus with sweet berries. Perfect for special occasions, this make-ahead dish lets you enjoy your morning without last-minute cooking stress.

I first made this for a family Easter gathering when I needed something special but didn’t want to miss the celebration by being stuck in the kitchen. The vibrant colors and perfect balance of flavors made it an instant tradition in our home.

Ingredients

• Challah French or Italian bread: Provides the perfect texture absorption without becoming soggy
• Fresh blueberries: Bring bursts of flavor and beautiful color throughout the casserole
• Lemon zest and juice: Cut through the richness with bright tangy notes
• Milk: Creates the custardy base that transforms regular bread into something magical
• Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the final dish
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to balance the citrus
• Cornstarch: In the sauce creates the perfect consistency for drizzling
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens everything perfectly without overwhelming the natural flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Base:

Arrange your bread cubes in the greased baking dish making sure they’re distributed evenly. The bread should fill the dish but not be packed too tightly as it needs room to absorb the custard mixture. Using day-old bread works best as it soaks up more flavor.

Create the Custard Mixture:

Whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla until completely incorporated. Take your time with this step to ensure the eggs are fully broken down and the mixture is smooth. The tiny flecks of lemon zest should be evenly distributed throughout.

Combine and Soak:

Pour half the custard mixture over the bread cubes and gently stir to ensure even coating. Then add the remaining mixture to fully saturate the bread. Press down gently to help absorption. Every piece of bread should have contact with the custard.

Rest and Absorb:

Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least two hours or preferably overnight. This resting period is crucial as it allows the bread to fully absorb the flavors and custard. The longer it rests, the more pronounced the lemon flavor becomes.

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Bake uncovered at 350°F for exactly 40 minutes until the top is beautifully golden and the center is set but still slightly jiggly. The edges will be slightly crisp while the interior remains custardy and soft.

Prepare the Blueberry Sauce:

While the casserole bakes, combine sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until it comes to a boil, then add blueberries. Continue cooking until the berries begin to burst and release their juices, turning the sauce a gorgeous purple blue. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when ready.

My favorite part about this recipe is watching guests take their first bite. The bright lemon flavor surprises everyone who expects just a standard sweet French toast. My mother-in-law who claims not to like sweets always asks for seconds of this casserole.

Making It Perfect Every Time

The key to this casserole is using the right bread. While the recipe suggests Challah, French, or Italian bread, the real secret is ensuring whatever bread you choose has a sturdy structure. Soft sandwich bread will disintegrate into mush, while too-dense bread won’t properly absorb the custard. Challah has become my go-to because its eggy richness complements the lemon perfectly.

Storage and Reheating

This casserole stores remarkably well. Cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For reheating individual portions, microwave for 45-60 seconds or until just warm. For larger portions, cover with foil and reheat at 325°F for about 15 minutes. The blueberry sauce can be stored separately in an airtight container and gently rewarmed on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

Perfect Pairings

While delicious on its own, this French toast casserole pairs beautifully with complementary breakfast items. Serve alongside a platter of crispy bacon for a sweet-savory contrast or with a simple fruit salad featuring seasonal berries and mint. For beverages, consider a mimosa made with fresh orange juice or a French press coffee with notes of caramel and chocolate to balance the bright lemon flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this in advance?

Yes, prepare the casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and bake fresh in the morning.

→ Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, Challah, French, or Italian bread are ideal, but other sturdy bread types work well.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Pair it with fresh fruit, sausage links, or crispy bacon for a complete brunch spread.