Name: Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole: A Cozy Breakfast Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Gluten-free flour works as a great substitute.); 4 teaspoons baking powder (Ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Can be omitted if using self-rising flour.); 1/2 teaspoon salt (Balances sweetness.); 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (Coconut sugar can be used for a healthier option.); 2 large eggs (Lightly beaten; substitute with flaxseed eggs for a vegan recipe.); 2 cups buttermilk (Regular milk with lemon juice makes a great DIY version.); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (Melted, plus more for greasing; olive oil is a dairy-free alternative.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Pure vanilla extract enhances the taste.); 4 cups fresh blueberries (Swap for mixed berries if desired.); 1/4 cup granulated sugar (Adjust to taste.); 2 tablespoons lemon juice (Lime juice offers a good substitute.); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (Arrowroot powder is a suitable replacement.); 1 cup powdered sugar (Sugar substitutes can lower the calorie count.); 2-3 tablespoons buttermilk (Adjust for consistency.); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (Adds rich flavor to the glaze.); Maple syrup (For drizzling.); Whipped cream (Optional but highly recommended.); Fresh mint leaves (For garnish.)

There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of pancakes, especially when they come in the form of a Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole. This dish transforms your breakfast into a cozy, comforting feast that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With tangy buttermilk and juicy blueberries, it’s not just a treat for your taste buds but an effortless way to serve a crowd or satisfy weekend brunch cravings. Best of all, you can customize this recipe to fit whatever fruits or nuts you have on hand, making it a versatile gem in your kitchen arsenal. Ready to delight your family or guests with this easy-to-prepare breakfast wonder? Let’s dive into this delicious journey!

Why is this casserole a breakfast game-changer?

Simplicity, this dish comes together effortlessly, requiring only basic baking skills and minimal prep time!
Crowd-Pleasing, it’s a guaranteed hit for brunch gatherings or family breakfasts, satisfying even the pickiest eaters.
Customizable, swap in your favorite fruits or add nuts and spices for a personal touch—endless options await!
Texture, enjoy the delightful fluffiness paired with sweet, juicy blueberry layers that create a heavenly bite.
Make-Ahead, prepare it the night before and pop it in the oven the next morning—perfect for busy weekdays!
Elevate your breakfast game with this Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole, and check out Blueberry Cookie Bliss for another fruity delight!

Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole Ingredients

For the Casserole

2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure; gluten-free flour works as a great substitute.
4 teaspoons baking powder – Essential leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
1 teaspoon baking soda – Adds fluffiness; can be omitted if using self-rising flour.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness; a must for enhancing flavor.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar – Sweetness; feel free to use coconut sugar for a healthier option.
2 large eggs, lightly beaten – Bind the ingredients together; substitute with flaxseed eggs for a vegan recipe.
2 cups buttermilk – Brings moisture and tang; regular milk with lemon juice makes a great DIY version.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus more for greasing – Adds richness; olive oil is a dairy-free alternative.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Infuses flavor; pure vanilla extract enhances the taste.
4 cups fresh blueberries, divided – Adds sweetness and moisture; swap for mixed berries if desired.

For the Blueberry Filling

1/4 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the filling; adjust to taste based on your preference.
2 tablespoons lemon juice – Brightens and balances flavor; lime juice offers a good substitute.
1 tablespoon cornstarch – Thickens the filling; arrowroot powder is a suitable replacement.

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the glaze; sugar substitutes can lower the calorie count.
2-3 tablespoons buttermilk – Adjust for consistency; perfect for that smooth finish.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds rich flavor to the glaze.

For Serving

Maple syrup – For drizzling; adds a sweet touch that complements the dish perfectly.
Whipped cream – Elevates the breakfast experience; totally optional but highly recommended.
Fresh mint leaves – A colorful garnish that adds a pop of freshness.

Get ready to savor every bite of this Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Blueberry Filling
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 3 cups of blueberries, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Stir gently and bring to a simmer for about 5 minutes, until the sugar has dissolved and the blueberries soften. To thicken, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water, then add it to the pan, stirring constantly until the mixture darkens and thickens—approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and gently fold in the remaining blueberries.

Step 2: Make the Pancake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 4 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. In another bowl, blend 2 lightly beaten eggs, 2 cups of buttermilk, 4 tablespoons of melted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix, stirring just until combined—remember, a few lumps are okay to keep your batter fluffy for the Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Pour half of the pancake batter into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly. Next, spoon the blueberry filling over the batter, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Finally, pour the remaining batter on top, gently spreading it to cover the blueberry filling without mixing layers—this will create a delightful harmony of flavors.

Step 4: Bake
Place your assembled Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes; the top should become golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. The casserole will puff up beautifully, creating a fluffy texture that’s a feast for the eyes and the palate.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
While the casserole is baking, you can prepare the optional glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons of buttermilk, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more buttermilk if needed—it should be pourable yet thick enough to cling to the pancakes. Set it aside until you’re ready to serve.

Step 6: Serve
After the casserole has cooled for about 5 minutes, slice it into squares and serve warm. Drizzle generously with your glaze, or top with maple syrup and whipped cream for a decadent touch. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a burst of color. Enjoy this warm, comforting Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole with family or friends—it’s sure to be a hit!

How to Store and Freeze Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole

Room Temperature: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Cover with a clean napkin to keep it warm and fresh.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick breakfast delight.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave directly from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge before warming.
Reheating: Warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for optimal taste and texture, bringing back the fluffy charm of your Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole.

Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole Variations

Feel free to get creative and elevate your pancake casserole experience with these delightful twists!

Mixed Berries: Substitute blueberries with fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries for a colorful and tangy burst. Each fruit brings its unique flavor to the dish!
Banana Bliss: Mash ripe bananas into the batter for natural sweetness and a delightful banana flavor. It pairs beautifully with the blueberries, making every bite luscious.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans in the batter for extra texture and a satisfying crunch. The nuts provide a wonderful contrast to the soft, fluffy pancakes.
Spiced Up: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for fall or winter breakfasts. It’s an easy way to add depth!
Savory Surprise: For a twist, fold in cooked and crumbled bacon or sausage into the batter. The savory elements create a delicious balance with the sweetness of the blueberries.
Vegan Delight: Replace the eggs with flaxseed eggs and use plant-based milk instead of buttermilk for a vegan-friendly version. Everyone can enjoy this tasty treat!
Citrus Zing: Add freshly grated orange or lemon zest to the batter for a bright, refreshing flavor that complements the blueberries perfectly.
Chocolate Chip Fun: Mix in chocolate chips for a dessert-like twist that kids will love! Chocolate and blueberries create a scrumptious combination that feels indulgent yet cozy.

Don’t forget to try drizzling with homemade blueberry compote or lemon curd for an extra special touch, or serve it alongside a warm bowl of Spicy Southern Casserole for brunch! Embrace the possibilities, and enjoy every delicious bite of your Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole!

What to Serve with Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a cozy brunch where every bite feels like a warm hug, especially when shared with loved ones.

Crispy Bacon: The salty, savory crunch of bacon beautifully complements the sweet blueberry flavors, adding a delightful contrast to your breakfast table.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brightens the meal, providing refreshing bites that balance the rich, fluffy casserole.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and honey, this creamy addition introduces a rich texture, perfectly contrasting the soft casserole.
Maple Sausage Links: Juicy, flavored sausages harmonize with the sweetness of the pancakes, making each bite a balance of savory and sweet.
Herb-Infused Tea: A cup of soothing herbal tea elevates the brunch experience, offering warmth and a fragrant aroma that enhances your morning.
Homemade Blueberry Compote: Drizzling warm compote over each slice heightens the blueberry intensity and adds a luscious texture to the dish.
Lemon Curd: This tart, creamy spread brings a zesty kick that contrasts the sweetness of the casserole, creating a vibrant layer of flavor.

Pair these delightful options alongside your Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole to create an unforgettable breakfast feast!

Make Ahead Options

These Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casseroles are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the blueberry filling and pancake batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the blueberry mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness, while the batter can be kept in another container. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the casserole by pouring half the batter into a greased dish, layering the blueberry filling, and topping it off with the remaining batter. Bake as directed, and you’ll enjoy a delightful breakfast with minimal morning effort—just as delicious as if you made it fresh that day!

Expert Tips for Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole

Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense casserole instead of the light, fluffy texture you want in your Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole.
Check Your Oven Temperature: Oven temperatures can vary. Make sure to keep an eye on the baking time and test with a toothpick to ensure it’s properly baked without being dry.
Layering Matters: When assembling, carefully pour the remaining batter over the filling without stirring. This will help maintain beautiful layers, adding to the overall texture and presentation of your casserole.
Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before and cover it tightly. In the morning, simply pop it in the oven for a warm breakfast with minimal effort, perfect for busy days.
Switch Up Ingredients: Feel free to customize! Use different fruits like raspberries or sliced bananas, or throw in some nuts for added crunch and flavor variations in your Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole.

Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole Recipe FAQs

What kind of blueberries should I use for the casserole?
Fresh blueberries are best as they provide sweetness and moisture that enhances the casserole’s flavor. Look for firm, plump berries with a deep blue color. Avoid any with dark spots or consistency issues. If fresh blueberries aren’t available, you can also use frozen berries—just note they may release more moisture during cooking.

How should I store leftovers from the casserole?
Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Can I freeze Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then slice it into portions. Place the slices on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven, or you can microwave directly from frozen.

What can I substitute for buttermilk in this recipe?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 2 cups of regular milk with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will provide the tangy flavor you need for the Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole.

What if my pancake casserole is too dense?
If your casserole turns out too dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they’re incorporated—some lumps are perfectly okay! Additionally, make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh and active, as they are key leavening agents contributing to the fluffiness.

Are there any dietary considerations for making this casserole?
Yes, there are! This recipe can easily be adapted for various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. To make it vegan, use flaxseed eggs instead of regular eggs and a dairy-free milk variant mixed with lemon juice for buttermilk. Always double-check for allergies, especially with the toppings like whipped cream or nuts.