Vegan Blueberry French Toast Casserole: A Delicious Plant-Based Brunch
Looking for a breakfast or brunch dish that’s indulgent, flavorful, and completely plant-based?
This vegan blueberry French toast casserole is the answer! Packed with sweet blueberries, warm spices, and a creamy egg-free custard, it’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for weekends, holidays, or any special occasion.
Not only is it a treat for the taste buds, but it’s also simple to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.
Whether you’re planning a festive family brunch or want to impress guests with a stunning plant-based dish, this casserole has you covered. It’s easy to customize, can be made ahead, and tastes just as amazing reheated for leftovers.
With its combination of sweet and tangy blueberries, creamy custard, and a crispy topping, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crowd-pleaser: A great dish to share with family and friends, even those who aren’t vegan.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning for a stress-free brunch.
- Packed with flavor: The combination of blueberries, vanilla, and warm spices creates a burst of flavors in every bite.
- Nutrient-packed: Bursting with antioxidants from the blueberries and healthy fats from the coconut milk.
- Customizable: Use your favorite plant-based bread, milk, and toppings to make it your own.
- Easy to serve: It’s a one-dish recipe that simplifies hosting and cleanup.
Let’s dive into this simple and satisfying recipe that will bring a smile to everyone’s face!
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf of 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 for extra fruitiness
For the Custard:
- 2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat milk)
- 1/2 cup canned coconut milk (for richness)
- 1/3 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 3 tablespoons ground flaxseed (acts as a thickener and egg replacer)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped pecans (optional, for added crunch)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: 2 tablespoons vegan butter or coconut oil, melted, for extra richness
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Blueberries
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with vegan butter or coconut oil to prevent sticking.
- Spread the bread cubes evenly in the dish, creating a base layer. Ensure the pieces are evenly distributed for uniform soaking.
- Sprinkle the blueberries over the bread. For added flavor and texture, consider mixing in other fruits like raspberries or diced strawberries.
Step 2: Make the Custard
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk, coconut milk, maple syrup, ground flaxseed, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. The coconut milk adds a luscious creaminess that mimics traditional custard.
- Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the flaxseed to thicken slightly, creating a rich and cohesive custard base.
- Pour the custard evenly over the bread and blueberries. Use a spatula or spoon to press the bread down gently, ensuring all pieces are well soaked.
Step 3: Add the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, sliced almonds or pecans (if using), cinnamon, and melted vegan butter or coconut oil. This topping adds a sweet and crunchy contrast to the soft custard.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole. Ensure it covers the surface for a beautiful golden finish.
Step 4: Chill and Bake
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. This step allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, resulting in a tender and flavorful casserole.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) when ready to bake.
- Remove the cover and bake the casserole for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set. If you prefer a crisper topping, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the custard set further and makes it easier to slice.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of vegan yogurt, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a handful of fresh fruit. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate brunch experience.
Tips for Success
- Choose the right bread: Use a sturdy bread that can hold up to the custard without becoming too mushy. Day-old or slightly stale bread works best.
- Customize the flavors: Add lemon zest, orange zest, or a dash of cardamom for a unique twist. You can also experiment with different fruits or spices.
- Use fresh or frozen blueberries: Both work well, but if using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. They’ll bake beautifully and release their juices during cooking.
- Plan ahead: Prepping the casserole the night before not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as the custard fully absorbs into the bread.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 5g |
Final Thoughts
This vegan blueberry French toast casserole is a delightful combination of sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion—from a leisurely weekend brunch to a holiday celebration.
Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it’s also packed with wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about serving to your loved ones.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply indulging in a special breakfast for yourself, this casserole delivers on flavor, texture, and presentation.
Try it today and experience the joy of a classic French toast casserole, veganized to perfection. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
