I recently experimented with a Blueberry Breakfast casserole that pairs juicy blueberries with crunchy walnuts and cubed day-old bread. Fresh eggs, whole milk, and cinnamon mix with maple syrup and melted butter to create a hearty medley that captivates. I am excited for you to explore this unique blend.

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I’m excited to share my version of a Crock Pot Blueberry Breakfast Casserole that I think you’ll love. I first whipped up this recipe when I realized I had some leftover day-old bread and a bounty of fresh blueberries.

I tossed 6 cups of those bread cubes in with 1 1/2 cups of blueberries and 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, then mixed in 8 large eggs, 2 cups of whole milk, 1/3 cup maple syrup and 1/3 cup granulated sugar. I added a teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 cup melted butter and a pinch of salt.

The slow cooker does its magic overnight, turning these simple ingredients into a hearty breakfast that’s perfect for quick mornings. Even if you usually do a different kind of crockpot breakfast or like experimenting with blueberry recipes, this dish is a must try for a smart start to your day.

Enjoy!

Why I Like this Recipe

I like this recipe because it lets me use day-old bread in a really creative way. I like that the blueberries add a bright burst of flavor and the walnuts give it a nice crunch. I love the cozy, sweet taste of the maple syrup mixed with cinnamon and all the spices. And finally, I really enjoy how easy it is to make in a crock pot which means less work and more time to relax in the morning.

Ingredients

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Bread provides hearty carbohydrates and fiber; white is soft while wheat brings extra nutrients.
Blueberries burst with antioxidants and vitamins, adding a tangy-sweet pop of flavor.
Walnuts offer healthy omega-3 fats and a satisfying crunch that boosts the dish nutritionally.
Eggs deliver protein and essential vitamins, helping bind all the flavors together.
Whole milk lends calcium and protein, giving the casserole a rich, custard-like texture.
Maple syrup naturally sweetens and moistens the dish with warm, mellow notes.
Melted butter infuses a rich flavor and helps meld ingredients though use it sparingly.
Ground cinnamon adds a subtle spice and extra depth without overpowering the other tastes.

Ingredient Quantities

6 cups cubed day-old bread (white or wheat works best)

1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

8 large eggs

2 cups whole milk

1/3 cup maple syrup

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 cup melted butter

a pinch of salt

How to Make this

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1. Grease your crock pot well and then add the day-old bread cubes evenly in the bottom.

2. Evenly sprinkle the fresh blueberries and chopped walnuts over the bread.

3. In a separate bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them with the whole milk until well combined.

4. Stir in the maple syrup, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, melted butter, and a pinch of salt into the egg mixture.

5. Pour this custardy mixture slowly over the bread and fruit so that every piece gets soaked.

6. Give the casserole a gentle shake to redistribute the blueberries and walnuts throughout the bread.

7. Cover the crock pot and let it sit on low for about 3 to 4 hours, until the mixture is set and puffed up.

8. Check that the center is firm before removing the casserole from the crock pot.

9. If it seems too runny, cover and cook for an extra 15 minutes.

10. Scoop out portions onto plates and enjoy warm, optionally drizzled with a bit more maple syrup if you like it sweeter.

Equipment Needed

1. Crock pot – You’ll need a crock pot to bake the casserole in.
2. Large mixing bowl – This is where you’ll whisk the eggs with all the liquid ingredients.
3. Whisk – To mix your eggs, milk, maple syrup, sugar, and spices together well.
4. Measuring cups and spoons – For getting the amounts of milk, syrup, sugar, and spices right.
5. Knife and cutting board – If you need to chop any ingredients, like breaking up walnuts or cutting bread cubes.
6. Spatula or serving spoon – To gently stir the casserole and later serve it onto plates.

FAQ

Can i use any type of bread for this recipe?

Yeah, you can use white, wheat, or even sourdough as long as its a day old so it soaks the liquid better.

Do i really need fresh blueberries or will frozen work too?

Fresh blueberries add the best flavor, but if you only have frozen, use them thawed and drained so the casserole isnt too watery.

Can i swap out walnuts for another nut?

Sure, if walnuts arent your thing try pecans or even almonds, but keep in mind that might change the taste a bit.

How long do i need to cook it in my crock pot?

Generally its around 3-4 hours on low, but the timing might vary depending on your slow cooker so keep an eye out for a firm center.

Can i make the casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely, you can mix it up the night before and store it in the fridge then just pop it into the crock pot in the morning.

Crock Pot Blueberry Breakfast Casserole Recipe Substitutions and Variations

For the blueberries, you could use frozen blueberries instead if you dont mind them being a bit softer. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first.
If you don’t have walnuts, try using pecans or slivered almonds for a slightly different nutty flavor.
You can substitute whole milk with 2% milk, almond milk or even coconut milk if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
If maple syrup isnt available, a good alternative is honey or agave nectar which will give a similar sweetness.

Pro Tips

1. Try letting your bread soak in the custard mix for about 10 minutes before putting it in the crock pot so every piece gets super saturated and full of flavor.
2. Make sure you preheat all your ingredients to room temperature, like the eggs and milk; it helps them mix together smoother and stops any weird clumps from forming.
3. Don’t be afraid to tweak the sugar and maple syrup amounts slightly if you like it a bit sweeter or less sweet. Small changes can really amp up the taste.
4. When checking if it’s done, give it a gentle poke in the middle and if it’s still runny, let it go a few more minutes; every crock pot can heat a bit differently.