Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe cozy scent of vanilla and blueberries wafts through the air as I gather my family for breakfast, their excited chatter bringing warmth to the morning. This Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole is my go-to solution when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Not only is it a delightful crowd-pleaser, but it also offers the bonus of being completely customizable—feel free to swap in your favorite fruits or nuts! With its fluffy, custardy texture and ability to be prepared ahead of time, it’s the perfect dish for busy mornings or leisurely brunches. Can you think of a better way to start your day? Why Will You Love This Casserole? Irresistible Flavor: The sweet blueberries combined with tangy buttermilk create a taste explosion you’ll crave. Effortless Preparation: Just mix, bake, and serve—perfect for any skill level, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice. Customizable Delights: Want to switch things up? Substitute different fruits or add nuts for a unique twist that keeps meals exciting. Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it the night before and bake in the morning—ideal for busy weekdays or stress-free brunch gatherings. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This casserole is sure to impress family and friends, making every breakfast feel like a special occasion. So, gather around the table and enjoy this delightful dish, and consider pairing it with a side of Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls for a truly indulgent breakfast experience! Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole Ingredients For the Casserole All-purpose flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent for fluffiness. Baking soda – Enhances rise and also aids in browning. Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor. Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness but can be reduced for a less sweet taste. Large eggs – Essential for binding ingredients and helping with structure. Buttermilk – Adds tang and moisture; use milk mixed with vinegar for a similar flavor. Unsalted butter – Provides fat for moisture and flavor; can be replaced with oil for a dairy-free option. Vanilla extract – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor. Fresh blueberries – The star ingredient for flavor; feel free to swap with raspberries or strawberries. For the Blueberry Filling Granulated sugar (blueberry filling) – Sweetens the filling beautifully. Lemon juice – Brightens the filling’s flavor; lime juice can work as a substitute. Cornstarch – Thickens the blueberry filling; arrowroot can be used as an alternative. For the Glaze (Optional) Powdered sugar – Adds sweetness; can be omitted if avoiding sugar. Buttermilk (for glaze) – Offers creaminess; substitute with milk if necessary. For Serving Maple syrup – A classic topping; honey can serve as an excellent substitute. Whipped cream – Adds richness if you desire a thicker texture. Fresh mint leaves – Provides a refreshing garnish to finish off the dish. Dive into making this Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors that are bound to please everyone at your table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole Step 1: Prepare the Blueberry Filling In a medium saucepan, combine 3 cups of fresh blueberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until it starts to simmer and the sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes. As it cooks, whisk together cornstarch and a splash of cold water in a small bowl, then stir this into the blueberry mixture. Allow it to thicken slightly for about 2 more minutes, then remove from heat and set aside. Step 2: Make the Pancake Batter In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar until well combined. In another bowl, whisk the large eggs, buttermilk, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing only until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as lumps are fine. Aim for a cohesive batter ready for the casserole. Step 3: Assemble the Casserole Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Pour half of the pancake batter into the prepared dish, ensuring an even layer, followed by spooning the blueberry filling on top. Carefully spread the remaining pancake batter over the filling to cover it completely, helping it bake into a fluffy casserole. Step 4: Bake the Casserole Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the casserole for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes: the top should turn a beautiful golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. If the edges puff up slightly, that’s a good sign that your Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole is done. Step 5: Prepare the Glaze (Optional) While the casserole is cooling slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, buttermilk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Aim for a smooth, creamy consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more buttermilk to achieve your desired pourable glaze. Set aside to let the flavors meld while the casserole rests. Step 6: Serve Once the casserole has cooled for about 10 minutes, slice it into squares and serve warm. Drizzle with the prepared glaze, or top with maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh mint leaves for an extra touch. This delightful Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole is now ready to enjoy with family or friends, perfect for any breakfast occasion! Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole Variations Feel free to get creative with this dish and make it truly your own—your taste buds will thank you! Berry Bonanza: Swap blueberries for raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries to create a delightful flavor medley. Each fruit brings its unique sweetness and tang, making every bite a surprise! Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an irresistible crunch. Their buttery texture contrasts perfectly with the soft pancake, offering a satisfying bite. Spiced Up: Sprinkle in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for added warmth. These spices not only enhance flavor but also evoke cozy memories of family breakfasts around the table. Savory Twist: For a more filling option, incorporate crumbled bacon or sausage into the mix. It’s a surprising twist that balances the sweetness of the blueberries. Oatmeal Boost: Fold in quick oats into the batter for a heartier texture and some extra fiber. This makes the casserole even more satisfying, perfect for the upcoming busy day. Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond milk and coconut oil instead of buttermilk and butter to create a dairy-free version. You won’t miss the creaminess, as the flavors meld beautifully just the same! Zesty Lemon: Add lemon zest to the batter for a bright flavor that elevates the dish. The citrus will cut through the sweetness, providing a refreshing contrast. Chocolate Indulgence: For a decadent treat, mix in chocolate chips with the berries. Who can resist the combination of sweet blueberries and rich chocolate in a fluffy pancake casserole? No matter how you choose to customize your Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole, it’s sure to impress. Plus, if you’re seeking more delicious options, consider trying this Cheesy Carrot Casserole or a comforting Baked Tortellini Casserole that your family will love! Tips for the Best Pancake Casserole Mix Lightly: Avoid overmixing the batter. It’s okay to have small lumps! This will ensure your Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole stays fluffy and light. Check for Doneness: Baking time can vary. Always insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your casserole is perfectly baked and ready to serve. Cooling Is Key: Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set properly and makes for cleaner slices, enhancing the presentation. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh blueberries for the best flavor. If frozen, make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture to avoid a soggy filling. Customizable Toppings: Experiment with toppings like whipped cream, a drizzle of maple syrup, or fresh mint leaves to elevate your serving experience and cater to everyone’s taste preferences. How to Store and Freeze Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: For individual servings, microwave for about 1-2 minutes. For the whole casserole, reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, covered to retain moisture. Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning for a convenient breakfast. Make Ahead Options These Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole preparations are perfect for busy mornings and will save you time during the week! You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance by assembling all the ingredients and then covering it tightly with plastic wrap. Be sure to refrigerate it overnight to keep everything fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just pop it in the oven for baking, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight out of the fridge. This method ensures that your casserole retains its fluffy texture without losing any of that delicious flavor, allowing you to serve a delightful breakfast with minimal effort! What to Serve with Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole? Elevate your breakfast experience with delightful sides and beverages that complement the rich flavors of your casserole. Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon perfectly contrasts the sweetness of the casserole, adding a savory touch to your meal. Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brings a refreshing element that balances the dish’s richness, making for a light yet satisfying bite. Yogurt Parfaits: Layer with granola and fresh berries to enhance creamy textures, creating a delightful contrast to the fluffy casserole. Maple-Glazed Sausages: These add a savory sweetness that beautifully pairs with the blueberries, rounding out your breakfast with hearty satisfaction. Hot Coffee or Tea: The warmth of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea sets a cozy tone for your gathering, enhancing the morning vibe. Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink option that brings brightness and counteracts the dish’s sweetness for a well-rounded meal. Whipped Cream Topping: Lifting each slice with a dollop of velvety whipped cream adds a luxurious finish, making every bite indulgent. Cinnamon Sugar Toast: For a nostalgic twist, serve with buttered toast sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar—perfect for that extra hint of sweetness. Chocolate Chip Muffins: A fun, sweet addition that adds texture and complements the berry notes in the casserole. Almond Milk Smoothie: Blend with spinach, banana, and a hint of agave for a nutritious drink that harmonizes with the pancake’s flavors. Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole Recipe FAQs What kind of blueberries should I use? Absolutely! Fresh blueberries are ideal for their sweetness and flavor. However, if you only have frozen blueberries, make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture to prevent a soggy filling. Fresh blueberries will give you the best results since they burst and create delicious pockets of flavor in the casserole. How should I store leftovers? You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, simply place individual pieces in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes covered with foil to keep it moist. Can I freeze the Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole? Very! To freeze, wrap the completely cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil. This way, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as usual. It’s the perfect way to enjoy this delicious breakfast dish later! What if my pancake casserole comes out dense? Don’t worry if it doesn’t turn out exactly like you expected! A dense casserole could be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Always mix just until combined—slight lumps are entirely acceptable. Another tip is to ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as old leavening agents won’t help the casserole rise properly. Is it safe for my pets to eat this dish? I recommend keeping this Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole away from pets, especially dogs, because of ingredients like sugar and butter that can upset their stomachs. The blueberries themselves are safe for many pets in small amounts, but always check with your vet before sharing any human food. Can I make this casserole dairy-free? Absolutely! You can easily make this Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole dairy-free by substituting the buttermilk with a mixture of plant-based milk (like almond or soy) and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for tang. You can also replace the unsalted butter with a dairy-free oil, such as coconut oil or vegetable oil. Enjoy your dairy-free breakfast! Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole: Your New Breakfast Hero Experience the delightful flavors of Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole, perfect for impressing family at breakfast. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 8 slicesCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Casserole2 cups all-purpose flour substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option2 tablespoons baking powder acts as a leavening agent for fluffiness1 teaspoon baking soda enhances rise and aids in browning1 teaspoon salt balances sweetness and enhances flavor1/2 cup granulated sugar can be reduced for less sweetness3 large eggs essential for binding ingredients2 cups buttermilk use milk mixed with vinegar for a similar flavor1/2 cup unsalted butter can be replaced with oil for a dairy-free option1 teaspoon vanilla extract adds sweetness and depth of flavor3 cups fresh blueberries feel free to swap with raspberries or strawberriesFor the Blueberry Filling1/2 cup granulated sugar sweetens the filling beautifully2 tablespoons lemon juice brightens the flavor; lime juice can be a substitute2 tablespoons cornstarch thickens the blueberry fillingFor the Glaze (Optional)1 cup powdered sugar can be omitted if avoiding sugar1/4 cup buttermilk substitute with milk if necessaryFor Servingmaple syrup to taste a classic toppingwhipped cream adds richnessfresh mint leaves for garnish provides a refreshing finish Equipment Large mixing bowlmedium saucepanWhisk9x13 inch baking dish Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPrepare the Blueberry Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine fresh blueberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Heat over medium-low until simmering. Whisk cornstarch with a splash of cold water, stir into the mixture, and thicken for 2 minutes. Remove from heat.Make the Pancake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. In another bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla. Pour wet into dry, mix until just combined.Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 baking dish. Pour half the batter, add berry filling, then cover with remaining batter.Bake the Casserole: Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.Prepare the Glaze (Optional): Whisk powdered sugar, buttermilk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust consistency with more buttermilk if needed.Serve: Cool for about 10 minutes, slice into squares, and serve with glaze, syrup, whipped cream, or garnished with mint. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 5gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg NotesAllowing the casserole to cool helps it set properly for cleaner slices. Experiment with toppings to cater to preferences. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
