Pioneer Woman Lemon Blueberry French Toast Recipe
The Pioneer Woman Lemon Blueberry French Toast Recipe is bright, sweet and perfect for brunch. It mixes soft bread, fresh blueberries and fresh lemon zest.
Ingredients
- 1 large loaf brioche or French bread cubed
- 1 ½ cups fresh blueberries
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 4 ounces cream cheese cubed
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for topping
- Maple syrup for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Bread
- Cut the brioche into cubes. Spread them evenly in a greased baking dish. Make sure the cubes are similar in size. This helps the custard soak evenly.
Add Blueberries and Cream Cheese
- Sprinkle fresh blueberries over the bread cubes. Add small cubes of cream cheese between the bread pieces. This creates creamy pockets inside the casserole.
Make the Custard Mixture
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, heavy cream and sugars. Add vanilla extract, lemon zest, lemon juice and salt. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
Pour Over the Bread
- Slowly pour the custard mixture over the bread. Make sure every piece gets soaked. Press the bread gently with a spoon so it absorbs the liquid.
Rest the Casserole
- Cover the dish with foil. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes. For best results, refrigerate overnight. This step makes the texture soft and rich.
Bake the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake covered for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake 15 more minutes. The top should look golden and slightly crisp.
Add Final Touches
- Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Drizzle melted butter on top. Sprinkle powdered sugar. Serve warm with maple syrup and extra berries.
Notes
- Use day‑old bread for better absorption.
- Do not skip lemon zest. It adds fresh flavor.
- Use full‑fat milk for richer texture.
- Frozen blueberries can work. Do not thaw them.
- Let the casserole rest before baking.
- Cover while baking to prevent burning.
- Add sliced almonds for crunch.