Ekani Ella This blueberry cream cheese breakfast casserole is a delicious make-ahead dish that combines soft bread, sweet blueberries, and creamy pockets of cream cheese baked in a rich custard. It’s perfect for special occasions like Mother’s Day, Christmas morning, or weekend brunch. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this casserole tastes like a bakery-style treat in every bite.
What is Blueberry Cream Cheese Breakfast Casserole?
A blueberry cream cheese breakfast casserole is a baked dish made with bread cubes layered with cream cheese, blueberries, and a custard mixture of eggs and milk. It’s similar to a French toast casserole but richer and creamier, making it ideal for breakfast or brunch gatherings.
Other Breakfast Casserole Recipes
- Overnight French Toast Casserole
- Overnight Egg and Cheese Casserole
- Pumpkin Spice Breakfast Casserole
- Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bake
Reasons to Try Blueberry Cream Cheese Breakfast Casserole
- Make-ahead friendly – Assemble it the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
- Perfectly creamy and sweet – Cream cheese and blueberries balance beautifully.
- Easy to make – Uses simple pantry ingredients.
- Family favorite – Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Elegant presentation – Ideal for holidays or gatherings.
Ingredients Needed to Make Blueberry Cream Cheese Breakfast Casserole
- 8 cups cubed brioche, challah, or French bread (day-old preferred)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (if frozen, do not thaw)
- 8 oz cream cheese, cut into small cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (or half-and-half for richness)
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for greasing and drizzling)
For the optional blueberry syrup topping:
- 1 cup blueberries
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions to Prepare Blueberry Cream Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Step 1: Prepare a baking dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter and set aside.
Step 2: Layer bread, cream cheese, and blueberries
Add half of the cubed bread to the dish. Evenly distribute cream cheese cubes and half of the blueberries on top. Add the remaining bread and scatter the rest of the blueberries over it.
Step 3: Make custard mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
Step 4: Pour over casserole
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread layers, gently pressing down with a spatula to help the bread absorb the liquid.
Step 5: Chill or bake
For best results, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight. If baking immediately, allow it to rest for 15 minutes before baking.
Step 6: Bake casserole
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until golden brown and the center is set.
Step 7: Make blueberry syrup (optional)
In a small saucepan, combine blueberries, water, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened, then stir in lemon juice.
Step 8: Serve
Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes, then drizzle with blueberry syrup or dust with powdered sugar before serving.
What Goes Well With Blueberry Cream Cheese Breakfast Casserole
- Greek yogurt or vanilla yogurt – Adds creaminess and protein.
- Fresh fruit salad – Refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
- Maple syrup or blueberry compote – For extra sweetness.
- Hot coffee or tea – Complements the warm, baked flavor.
- Scrambled eggs or bacon – Adds a savory balance to the meal.
Key Tips for Making Blueberry Cream Cheese Breakfast Casserole
- Use day-old bread – Absorbs the custard without becoming mushy.
- Distribute cream cheese evenly – Ensures creamy bites throughout.
- Don’t thaw frozen blueberries – Prevents extra moisture in the bake.
- Let it rest before slicing – Helps the custard firm up.
- Add syrup just before serving – Keeps the top crisp and golden.
- Refrigerate overnight – Enhances flavor and texture.
Creative Variations of Blueberry Cream Cheese Breakfast Casserole
- Add lemon zest – Gives a fresh, citrus twist.
- Mix berries – Combine blueberries with raspberries or blackberries.
- Make it nutty – Add chopped almonds or pecans for crunch.
- Use flavored cream cheese – Try blueberry or honey cream cheese for extra depth.
- Add crumble topping – Mix butter, flour, sugar, and oats for a streusel-like finish.
Storage Guidelines for Blueberry Cream Cheese Breakfast Casserole
- Refrigerate leftovers – Store covered for up to 4 days.
- Freeze portions – Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months.
- Cool completely before storing – Prevents sogginess.
- Label and date – Helps track freshness.
Reheating Tips for Blueberry Cream Cheese Breakfast Casserole
- Oven method – Warm at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes.
- Microwave option – Heat individual servings for 1–2 minutes.
- From frozen – Bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes until heated through.
Nutritional Value (per serving):
- Calories: ~360
- Protein: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 290mg
Final Words
This easy blueberry cream cheese breakfast casserole is the perfect combination of soft, custardy bread, juicy blueberries, and creamy cheese. Whether you’re hosting brunch or preparing a make-ahead breakfast for the family, this dish delivers bakery-quality flavor with minimal effort. Serve it warm, and watch it become everyone’s favorite breakfast tradition.
