Lemon Blueberry Baked French Toast
Lemon Blueberry Baked French Toast is a simple make-ahead breakfast casserole that’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings. Made with cubes of bread soaked in a creamy lemon custard, this dish is packed with bright citrus flavor and bursts of fresh blueberries. This recipe uses a 12 oz. jar of prepared lemon curd. I recommend using Bonne Maman or MacKays lemon curd. For the best results, use Italian or French bread, but you can also try brioche, challah, or even sourdough for a slightly tangy twist. Serve it warm with a drizzle of lemon glaze for the tastiest breakfast or brunch.
Equipment
- 13x9 inch baking dish
Ingredients
Bread pudding
- 16 oz. Italian bread loaf or French bread loaf
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 12 oz. jar lemon curd store-bought
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Glaze
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1-2 tablespoons water if needed
Instructions
Bread Pudding
- Coat a 13x9 inch baking dish with cooking spray or generously coat with butter.
- Cube the bread with a serrated knife or tear it into chunks. Place evenly in the prepared pan. Scatter blueberries over the bread.
- In a large bowl, combine the eggs, milk, sugar, lemon curd, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Whisk well to combine.
- Pour evenly over the bread in the pan. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and transfer to the refrigerator. Let soak at least four hours or preferably overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the center is set and well puffed with a browned top.
Glaze
- Stir together the confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. The mixture should be thin enough to fall from a spoon. If it’s too thick add water a little at a time and stir until a thinner, drizzling consistency is achieved.
- Drizzle glaze over the warm baked French toast.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. It's delicious on its own, but feel free to add maple syrup or whipped cream if you prefer extra sweetness.
- Store leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 300°F oven until heated through.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap the baked and cooled French toast tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Fruit Variations:
- Mixed Berries: Swap or add raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries for a berry medley.
- Peaches: Fresh or canned (drained) peaches add a sweet, summery twist.
- Cherries: Pitted and halved cherries bring a rich, tart contrast to the lemon flavor.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!