This delicious blueberry cream cheese breakfast casserole is perfect for brunch or a special breakfast. It combines creamy layers of cream cheese and fresh blueberries with fluffy bread for a delightful dish.
Best Blueberry Cream Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Discover the best Blueberry Cream Cheese Breakfast Casserole recipe with our step-by-step guide. This dish features a delicious blend of fresh blueberries, creamy cheese, and tender bread, baked into a warm and satisfying breakfast treat. Perfect for weekends, holidays, or when you want to impress your guests with a sweet and indulgent start to the day.
Equipment
- 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish
Ingredients
- 300 grams day-old bread (such as French or challah or ciabatta), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 400 grams cream cheese, softened (about 2 packages)
- 250 grams fresh blueberries
- 4 large eggs
- 240 ml milk
- 120 ml half-and-half
- 100 grams granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 30 grams powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Casserole. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, half-and-half, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Layer the Ingredients In a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish, layer half of the bread cubes on the bottom.
- Cut the softened cream cheese into small cubes and distribute half of them evenly over the bread.
- Sprinkle half of the blueberries over the cream cheese.
- Add the remaining bread cubes on top, followed by the remaining cream cheese cubes and blueberries.
- Pour the Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread, cream cheese, and blueberries. Gently press down on the bread to ensure it absorbs the liquid.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm.
Notes
Variations
- Mixed Berry Casserole:
- Substitute or combine blueberries with other berries such as raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries for a mixed berry experience. This adds variety in flavor and color.
- Citrus Zest:
- Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the egg mixture for a refreshing citrus note that complements the sweetness of the berries.
- Nutty Crunch:
- Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans on top of the casserole before baking for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Spiced Flavor:
- Incorporate spices such as nutmeg or cardamom into the egg mixture for a warm, spiced flavor that pairs well with the cream cheese and berries.
- Vanilla or Almond Extract:
- Enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to the egg mixture. This adds depth and a lovely aroma to the casserole.
- Savory Twist:
- For a savory variation, omit the sugar and berries, and add cooked bacon or sausage, along with chopped green onions and shredded cheese.
- Chocolate Chips:
- Mix in some mini chocolate chips with the blueberries for a sweet indulgence that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
- Coconut Flakes:
- Sprinkle unsweetened coconut flakes on top of the casserole before baking for a tropical twist and added texture.
- Whole Grain Bread:
- Use whole grain or multigrain bread instead of white bread for added fiber and a heartier texture.
- Dairy-Free Option:
- Use a non-dairy cream cheese and plant-based milk to make the casserole suitable for those with dairy restrictions.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving) | |
---|---|
Calories | 350 kcal |
Total Fat | 18 g |
Saturated Fat | 10 g |
Cholesterol | 120 mg |
Sodium | 300 mg |
Total Carbohydrate | 40 g |
Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
Sugars | 15 g |
Protein | 10 g |