Name: Blueberry Brioche French Toast Casserole with Streusel Topping Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups milk; 6 large eggs; 1/4 cup light or dark brown sugar; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 21-24 oz loaf of brioche bread (stale or left out for a day or two); 1 cup blueberries or finely chopped apples (optional); 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; Maple syrup; Powdered sugar; Fresh fruit; Whipped cream

If you are ready to indulge in a cozy, mouthwatering breakfast treat, look no further than this Blueberry Brioche French Toast Casserole with Streusel Topping Recipe. Every bite offers the perfect harmony of fluffy, custardy brioche soaked in a cinnamon-spiced batter, bursting with juicy blueberries, and finished with a buttery, crumbly streusel that adds the ultimate sweetness and crunch. This dish transforms a simple morning meal into a celebration of comforting flavors and textures that you will want to share with friends and family again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two white bowls on a white marbled surface, each containing different baking ingredients. On the left side, a white bowl holds a light brown powder, surrounded by brown eggs in a small white bowl, a piece of braided bread with a golden crust, a small bowl of dark liquid, a small bowl of blue blueberries, a small bowl of light brown powder, and a small bowl of warm brown spice. On the right side, a medium white bowl contains white flour, with a small white bowl of bright yellow melted butter, a small white bowl of warm brown spice, and an empty white bowl nearby. The setup is neatly arranged and evenly spaced, ready for mixing. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Believe it or not, this recipe leans on simple, everyday ingredients that come together to build incredible layers of flavor, texture, and that beautiful golden color we all crave. From creamy milk and rich eggs to fragrant cinnamon and fresh blueberries, each component plays an essential role in making this casserole sing.

Milk: Provides rich creaminess to the batter, ensuring each bread cube is wonderfully soaked.
Large eggs: The binding agent that creates a custardy texture throughout the casserole.
Light or dark brown sugar: Adds subtle caramel notes that deepen the sweetness profile.
Maple syrup: Infuses natural sweetness and pairs perfectly with the cinnamon.
Ground cinnamon: Brings warm spice that brightens the casserole’s flavor without overpowering.
Vanilla extract: Enhances all flavors with a rich, fragrant touch.
Salt: Balances and enhances the sweetness in every bite.
Brioche loaf (21-24 oz): The star of the show—using brioche that’s been left out for a day or two helps it absorb the custard without turning mushy.
Blueberries (1 cup): Or substitute with finely chopped apples, adding natural fruity bursts.
Sugar for streusel (1/2 cup): Sweetens the crumbly topping for a delightful contrast.
All-purpose flour (1/4 cup for streusel): Gives structure to the streusel, helping it crisp perfectly when baked.
Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons for streusel): Echoes the cinnamon in the batter for a unified flavor experience.
Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons melted): Binds the streusel ingredients and creates that irresistible golden crunch.
Optional garnishes: Maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or whipped cream to tailor the finishing touch just for you.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Blueberry Brioche French Toast Casserole with Streusel Topping Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Starting with the bread is key. If your brioche is fresh, you can quick-dry it by spreading the slices out on oven-safe racks and popping them into a 200°F oven for about 10 minutes until they’re dry to the touch. This ensures the bread soaks up the custard perfectly without turning soggy. Then, cut your bread into roughly 1-inch cubes—about three by three per slice—to create perfect bite-sized pieces for layering.

Step 2: Make the Custard Batter

Whisk together milk, eggs, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt in a medium bowl until everything is well combined. Don’t worry if the cinnamon floats back up—that just means your casserole will get that wonderful aromatic cinnamon touch throughout.

Step 3: Soak the Bread Cubes

Add the cubed brioche to the custard and gently fold the pieces to coat evenly, using a careful folding technique rather than stirring to avoid breaking up the bread. It’s okay if a few cubes remain slightly dry—this will give you delightful textural contrasts in the final bake.

Step 4: Transfer the Mixture to a Baking Dish

Grease a 9-by-13-inch pan with butter or nonstick spray, then spread the soaked bread cubes evenly without pressing them down flat—this keeps the top nice and airy with beautifully browned edges. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil, securing all sides.

Step 5: Optional Resting Time

If you have the time, let your Blueberry Brioche French Toast Casserole with Streusel Topping Recipe rest overnight in the fridge—up to 14 hours. This step lets flavors deepen and the custard thoroughly absorb into the bread for an unbelievably tender and flavorful result. If resting, keep your streusel mixture refrigerated too or prepare it fresh in the morning.

Step 6: Prepare the Streusel Topping

Mix together sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a small bowl with a fork. Then stir in melted butter and blend until large crumbs form and there are no dry spots left. This mixture will add that crave-worthy crunchy, buttery topping that makes this casserole extra special.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

About 15 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 350°F. Sprinkle fresh blueberries (or apples) evenly over the soaked bread, then scatter your streusel topping chunks on top, making sure to cover the fruit and bread for an even golden crust.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake your casserole covered with foil for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes so the top crisps up and develops those gorgeous, dark golden edges you can’t wait to dig into.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the casserole to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps it set up perfectly, making serving neat and easier. Finally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with extra maple syrup for that extra bit of indulgence.

How to Serve Blueberry Brioche French Toast Casserole with Streusel Topping Recipe

A white rectangular baking dish filled with a single layer of torn pieces of soft bread in shades of light tan and golden brown, mixed evenly with scattered dark blue blueberries on top. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Elevate your serving by topping with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream also work beautifully to add color and richness, making every bite feel like a decadent brunch occasion.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with savory sides like crispy bacon or breakfast sausage, balancing the sweetness of the dish. You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit salad or a vibrant green smoothie for a wholesome, crowd-pleasing spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve your casserole in individual ramekins for single portions, topped with edible flowers or mint leaves for extra charm. Alternatively, assemble it the night before in a decorative baking dish to surprise your guests with a stunning first course.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, cover leftover casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and still tastes fantastic reheated.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish either baked or before baking. If freezing pre-baked, assemble but don’t bake, then wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. For baked leftovers, freeze portions individually for quick breakfasts on busy mornings.

Reheating

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes or microwave single servings until warmed through. The streusel topping stays delectably crisp when reheated this way, just like fresh out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread for this casserole?

Absolutely! While brioche is ideal for its richness and texture, challah, Texas toast, or even day-old sandwich bread will work well as substitutes. Just make sure the bread is slightly stale or quickly dried so it soaks up the custard properly.

What if I don’t have fresh blueberries? Can I use frozen?

Frozen blueberries can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture making your casserole soggy. Fresh fruit always provides a brighter flavor, but frozen works as a convenient alternative.

Is it necessary to rest the casserole overnight?

Resting overnight is optional but highly recommended. It allows the custard to fully penetrate the bread cubes, resulting in that melt-in-your-mouth custardy texture. If short on time, you can bake right away and still enjoy a delicious dish.

Can I prepare the streusel topping in advance?

Yes! The streusel can be mixed and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days ahead of time. Just bring it to room temperature before sprinkling on top before baking.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too soggy?

Using slightly stale brioche and gently folding the bread into the custard without mashing prevents sogginess. Avoid pressing down firmly when spreading the bread in the pan, and baking uncovered at the end helps develop a crisp top layer that balances softness underneath.

Final Thoughts

This Blueberry Brioche French Toast Casserole with Streusel Topping Recipe is the perfect way to turn an ordinary morning into a delightful celebration of flavor and comfort. Whether you’re serving it for a special brunch or a cozy weekend treat, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite. So grab your brioche, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress with every delectable bite!