Name: Vegan Blueberry French Toast Casserole: A Delicious Plant-Based Brunch Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: Vegan/American
Ingredients: 1 loaf crusty vegan bread (such as sourdough or French bread), cut into cubes; 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries; Optional: 1/2 cup chopped strawberries or raspberries; 2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat milk); 1/2 cup canned coconut milk; 1/3 cup maple syrup or agave nectar; 3 tablespoons ground flaxseed; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; Pinch of salt; 1/4 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar; 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped pecans (optional); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Optional: 2 tablespoons vegan butter or coconut oil, melted

If you’ve ever dreamed of a brunch dish that’s both comforting and bursting with fresh, fruity flavor, the Vegan Blueberry French Toast Casserole: A Delicious Plant-Based Brunch Recipe is here to make that dream come true. This casserole combines luscious blueberries, warm spices, and a creamy, egg-free custard nestled inside cubes of crusty vegan bread to create a dish that’s perfect for weekend mornings, holiday gatherings, or any moment you want to indulge in something truly special. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, packed with nutrients, and sure to delight vegans and non-vegans alike. Get ready for a cozy, colorful, and crave-worthy brunch treat that’ll become a new favorite in your kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with nine items arranged neatly: a white bowl filled with golden brown toasted bread cubes, a small white bowl with light brown almonds, a halved coconut with creamy white inside and brown shell, a bunch of fresh green mint leaves, a glass jug filled with fresh white milk, a white bowl filled with fresh blue blueberries, a white bowl containing fine white powder, a small glass jar with tiny black chia seeds, a white bowl of dark brown ground coffee, and finally a white bowl with light brown crumbled oats. A few blueberries and chia seeds are scattered on the surface around the bowls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things simple but delicious, using essential ingredients that each add their own charm—whether it’s the soft texture of the bread, the juicy burst of blueberries, or the silky richness of the plant-based custard. Every element plays a vital role in creating a perfectly balanced casserole.

1 loaf crusty vegan bread: Sourdough or French bread cubes offer the sturdy base that soaks up the custard beautifully.
2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries: These bring natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
Optional 1/2 cup chopped strawberries or raspberries: For an extra fruity layer and visual appeal.
2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk: Almond, soy, or oat milk; provides the creamy liquid foundation for the custard.
1/2 cup canned coconut milk: Adds luscious richness and body to the custard.
1/3 cup maple syrup or agave nectar: Natural sweetness that melds with the berries and spices.
3 tablespoons ground flaxseed: Acts as an egg replacer and thickener, helping the custard set perfectly.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor throughout the casserole.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Provides cozy depth and slight spice.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle nutty warmth.
Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
For the topping — 1/4 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar: Sweetens and caramelizes the crust.
1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped pecans (optional): Offers delightful crunch and texture contrast.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping): Ties the topping flavors to the custard filling.
Optional 2 tablespoons melted vegan butter or coconut oil: Adds richness and helps the topping crisp up beautifully.

TIP

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

How to Make Vegan Blueberry French Toast Casserole: A Delicious Plant-Based Brunch Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Blueberries

Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with vegan butter or coconut oil so nothing sticks during baking. Spread your cubed bread evenly across the dish, ensuring each piece has its moment to soak in the soon-to-come custard. Next, sprinkle the blueberries over the bread evenly—don’t hesitate to mix in chopped strawberries or raspberries here if you want to up the fruitiness. This layer forms the heart of the casserole, promising sweet bursts in every bite.

Step 2: Make the Custard

Whisk together all the custard ingredients in a large bowl: plant-based milk, creamy coconut milk, maple syrup, flaxseed, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. The flaxseed is magic here, thickening the mixture to silky perfection once it sits for about five minutes. Pour this luscious custard evenly over the bread and blueberries. Gently press down with a spatula or spoon to help the bread absorb every bit of flavor. This step creates the gorgeous, eggless custard that makes the dish truly shine.

Step 3: Add the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the brown or coconut sugar, nuts, cinnamon, and melted vegan butter or coconut oil if using. This topping will give your casserole that irresistible, slightly crunchy golden crust. Sprinkle it generously and evenly over the soaked bread and berries to ensure every slice gets a perfect finish.

Step 4: Chill and Bake

Cover your dish with plastic wrap or foil and pop it in the fridge for at least two hours or overnight. This soaking time lets the bread soak in all those rich flavors, making the casserole tender and flavorful. When ready, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, until the custard is set, and the topping is beautifully golden. For a crispier top, a quick broil for 2-3 minutes at the end is a delicious bonus.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes out of the oven. This finishing touch sets the custard more firmly and makes slicing a breeze. Serve warm with your favorite extras like a drizzle of maple syrup, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a spoonful of vegan yogurt. Pair it with a rich coffee or soothing tea for an unforgettable brunch experience. Watching everyone’s eyes light up after the first bite? Absolute joy!

How to Serve Vegan Blueberry French Toast Casserole: A Delicious Plant-Based Brunch Recipe

Garnishes

Colorful fresh blueberries or a dusting of powdered sugar add a pretty touch to every serving while maintaining the natural sweetness of the casserole. A drizzle of pure maple syrup or a dollop of plant-based yogurt can also elevate the experience with extra creaminess or subtle tartness. Sprinkle some toasted nuts on top for extra crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

To keep things classic, serve alongside a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or fresh fruit salad for bright contrast. If you want to venture further, crispy tofu scramble, vegan sausages, or even roasted sweet potatoes are stellar companions that bring savory balance to the sweet richness of the casserole.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch at brunch gatherings, or layer it in a trifle dish alternating with dollops of coconut whipped cream and fresh berries for an eye-catching dessert-style presentation. You could even turn leftovers into muffins by portioning the casserole mixture into a muffin tin before baking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Vegan Blueberry French Toast Casserole: A Delicious Plant-Based Brunch Recipe will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply cover it tightly to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. It tastes great cold or can be reheated for a quick snack.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of the casserole before or after baking. Wrap individual slices or the whole dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to protect from freezer burn. Frozen casserole lasts up to 2 months and thaws overnight in the fridge before reheating. The flavor and texture hold up wonderfully, making it perfect for busy mornings.

Reheating

Reheat your casserole slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through and the topping regains its crispiness. For quicker reheating, use a microwave in short bursts, but note the topping might soften slightly. Adding a touch of maple syrup or fresh blueberries after reheating refreshes the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use bread other than sourdough or French bread?

Absolutely! Just make sure to select a sturdy bread that holds up well when soaked in the custard, like a hearty whole-grain or a rustic country loaf. Avoid very soft or thinly sliced bread as it may become too mushy.

Do I have to soak the casserole overnight?

While overnight soaking is ideal to let the custard fully soak into the bread and deepen the flavor, a minimum of 2 hours in the fridge will still yield a tasty casserole suitable for quicker preparation.

Can I substitute the flaxseed with something else?

Yes, ground chia seeds can be used in place of flaxseed as an egg replacer and thickener. Use the same amount, and give it a few minutes to thicken before pouring over the bread.

What if I don’t have coconut milk?

You can swap canned coconut milk with another full-fat plant-based milk, but the custard might be slightly less creamy. Adding a tablespoon of vegan butter or coconut oil to the custard mix can help mimic that richness.

Can this casserole be made gluten-free?

Definitely. Just use a gluten-free vegan bread that’s sturdy enough to hold the custard. Keep in mind the baking time might vary slightly based on the bread’s texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so special about sharing a warm, flavorful dish like the Vegan Blueberry French Toast Casserole: A Delicious Plant-Based Brunch Recipe. It’s comforting yet fresh, simple yet impressive, and packed with wholesome ingredients that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a relaxing weekend breakfast, this casserole will lift your spirits and fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with this plant-based brunch classic as much as I have!