Blueberry Mascarpone French Toast Bake

why make this recipe

Blueberry Mascarpone French Toast Bake is a delightful dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. It combines soft, custardy bread with the sweetness of blueberries and the creamy texture of mascarpone cheese. This recipe is great for gatherings or family meals because it can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving. It offers a delicious way to start your day or impress your guests with minimal effort.

how to make Blueberry Mascarpone French Toast Bake

Ingredients

• 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 1⁄2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
• 1⁄2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 8 large eggs
• 2 1⁄2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
• 1⁄2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• Maple syrup or powdered sugar, for serving

Directions

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half the bread cubes into the dish.
2. In a small bowl, mix mascarpone, powdered sugar, and lemon zest until smooth. Dollop this mixture over the bread layer, then sprinkle with half the blueberries.
3. Top with the rest of the bread cubes and remaining blueberries.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Pour evenly over the bread mixture, pressing down gently so everything soaks.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.
6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until golden brown and the custard is set.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup.

how to serve Blueberry Mascarpone French Toast Bake

Serve warm right from the oven. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup for extra sweetness. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream for a special touch. This dish goes well with fresh fruit or a side of breakfast meats.

how to store Blueberry Mascarpone French Toast Bake

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick treat.

tips to make Blueberry Mascarpone French Toast Bake

• Use day-old bread for better texture as it absorbs the custard mixture better.
• Feel free to mix in other fruits, like strawberries or raspberries, for a fruity twist.
• Add some nuts, such as pecans or almonds, for an added crunch.
• Make sure to press down the bread gently after pouring the egg mixture, so it absorbs the custard well.

variation

For a chocolate twist, you can add chocolate chips along with the blueberries. If you want a caramel flavor, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use stale bread for this recipe?
Yes, stale bread is ideal for French toast bake. It absorbs the custard better, leading to a creamier texture.

2. Can I prepare this dish the night before?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for overnight preparation. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

3. Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the mascarpone with dairy-free cream cheese and use almond, soy, or oat milk as a replacement for regular milk.