This recipe is perfect for families with kids who need a fun and satisfying breakfast. It also works wonderfully for brunch gatherings with friends or as a delightful treat when you want something special without much fuss. If you love sweet, creamy dishes that can be prepared in advance, this is one to keep close!
Who Should Be Careful
Keep in mind that this dish is quite sweet and rich, making it a treat best enjoyed in moderation, especially for those managing blood sugar levels or those who prefer lighter breakfast options. The sugar content may not be ideal for individuals on specific dietary restrictions, so adjusting portion sizes could be wise.
Ingredients
- 8 slices sandwich bread (about 220 g)
- 1 1/2 cups (225 g) blueberries
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, cubed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) milk
- 1/3 cup (65 g) sugar
- 1 tsp (5 g) ground cinnamon
Ingredient Notes
- Bread: Use any sandwich bread, but brioche or challah can elevate the dish’s richness.
- Blueberries: Fresh is preferable, but frozen berries work in a pinch. Just thaw and drain any excess water.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese will meld better with the eggs and give a smoother texture.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Baking dish (9×13 inches or similar)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
- Cube the Bread: Cut the sandwich bread into cubes and spread them evenly in the greased dish.
- Add Blueberries and Cream Cheese: Scatter the blueberries over the bread, then add dollops of cream cheese throughout the dish.
- Mix Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Pour Over Bread Mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the bread, making sure all the pieces are soaked.
- Rest the Mixture: Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, until puffed and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some vanilla extract into the egg mixture.
- Let it sit longer if you prefer denser bites for a heartier breakfast.
- Top with maple syrup or powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Healthier or Lighter Swaps
- Reduce the sugar to 1/4 cup (50 g) for a less sweet version.
- Substitute whole milk with almond milk or skim milk for a lighter alternative.
- Use whole grain bread for added fiber if desired.