Name: Blueberry Mascarpone French Toast Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf brioche or challah bread (day-old), cubed; 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk or half-and-half; 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese; 1/3 cup sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp lemon zest (optional); 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries; Butter, for greasing; Powdered sugar or maple syrup, for serving

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Blueberry Mascarpone French Toast Bake is a rich and comforting breakfast casserole that brings together custard-soaked bread, juicy blueberries, and creamy mascarpone cheese in every bite. Baked until golden and finished with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup, this dish feels like a luxurious breakfast treat — perfect for weekends, holidays, or brunch with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s easy to prepare, feeds a crowd, and can be made the night before. The mascarpone adds a velvety richness that sets it apart from classic French toast bakes, while the blueberries add a sweet-tart burst of flavor. Whether I’m serving it for a special occasion or a lazy Sunday morning, it’s always a hit at the table.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Brioche or challah bread (day-old, cut into cubes)
Eggs
Milk or half-and-half
Mascarpone cheese
Sugar
Vanilla extract
Lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
Fresh or frozen blueberries
Butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Powdered sugar or maple syrup (for serving)

Directions

I start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter and spreading half of the bread cubes evenly across the bottom.
I dot spoonfuls of mascarpone over the bread and scatter half of the blueberries on top.
Then I layer the remaining bread, followed by the rest of the blueberries.
In a large bowl, I whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, and lemon zest if using.
I pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid.
I cover the dish and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or overnight if I’m making it ahead.
When ready to bake, I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole uncovered for 45–55 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is set.
I let it cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar or serving with maple syrup.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8–10 people and takes about 20 minutes to prep. Baking time is 45–55 minutes, and I recommend at least 2 hours of chilling time (or overnight for the best results).

Variations

Sometimes I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone for a slightly tangier flavor. I’ve also swapped blueberries for raspberries or mixed berries. For a more dessert-style version, I drizzle lemon glaze or berry compote over the top. If I want more crunch, I sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans before baking.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm slices in the oven at 325°F (160°C) or microwave them gently until heated through. It also freezes well — I wrap individual portions and thaw them overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this French toast bake ahead of time?

Yes, I always prep it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning. The overnight soak makes the texture even better.

Do I have to use brioche or challah?

Not at all. I’ve used French bread or sourdough with great results. I just make sure it’s slightly stale so it soaks up the custard.

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, I add them straight from the freezer — no need to thaw. They bake up perfectly in the casserole.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

I check that the center is set and doesn’t jiggle when I shake the pan. A knife inserted should come out clean or just slightly moist.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, I use a dairy-free milk like almond or oat, and swap mascarpone with a plant-based cream cheese alternative.

Conclusion

Blueberry Mascarpone French Toast Bake is a cozy, creamy, and berry-filled breakfast I turn to when I want something easy but impressive. With layers of flavor and texture in every bite, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table — and keeps them coming back for seconds. Whether for a special brunch or a weekend treat, it’s always a delicious way to start the day.