Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole

Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of sweet blueberries and warm, fluffy pancakes, all baked into one delightful dish! This Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole is the ultimate breakfast or brunch showstopper, transforming individual pancakes into a convenient, crowd-pleasing bake. Each bite delivers tender, buttermilk-infused goodness studded with a vibrant, homemade blueberry filling and topped with a delicate buttermilk glaze.

Why You’ll Love This Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole

This casserole is more than just a breakfast; it’s an experience! Here are fantastic reasons to whip up this amazing dish:

• Effortless Entertaining: Prepare it in advance and bake it when guests arrive, making hosting a breeze.
• Bursting with Flavor: Layers of tangy buttermilk pancakes and sweet, juicy blueberries create a harmonious taste.
• Perfect Texture: Enjoy a delightful contrast of fluffy pancake, tender cooked blueberries, and fresh, plump berries.
• Visually Stunning: The vibrant purple filling peeking through the golden-brown top makes for a truly appealing presentation.
• Cozy Comfort: It’s a warm, hearty meal that feels like a hug on a plate, perfect for lazy mornings.
• Customizable Delights: Easily adapt with your favorite fruits or toppings for endless variations.
• Simple to Serve: No more flipping individual pancakes; simply slice and serve perfect portions.

Ingredients Needed

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to a truly memorable breakfast! We’ll use a combination of pantry staples and fresh produce to create this incredible blueberry buttermilk pancake casserole.

• For the Blueberry Filling:
• 4 cups (approx. 480g) fresh blueberries, divided: Choose plump, firm berries for the best flavor.
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the berries to perfection.
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) lemon juice: Brightens the blueberry flavor and adds a touch of tartness.
• 1 tablespoon (8g) cornstarch: Our secret weapon for a beautifully thickened sauce.
• For the Pancake Batter:
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour: The foundation for our fluffy pancakes.
• 4 teaspoons baking powder: Provides lift for a light and airy texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Reacts with the buttermilk for extra rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness for the batter itself.
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
• 2 cups (480ml) buttermilk: Essential for that signature tangy flavor and tender crumb.
• 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, melted: Adds moisture and a lovely buttery taste.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the sweet notes in the casserole.
• For the Buttermilk Glaze (Optional):
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar: Forms the base of our sweet drizzle.
• 2-3 tablespoons (30-45ml) buttermilk: Thins the glaze to a pourable consistency.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: A hint of warmth for the glaze.
• For Serving (Optional):
• Maple syrup: Classic pancake topping.
• Whipped cream: Adds a touch of indulgence.
• Fresh mint leaves: A beautiful garnish and refreshing aroma.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Best Blueberry French Toast Casserole – A similar baked breakfast delight featuring sweet blueberries!

Essential Equipment

Having the right tools makes creating this blueberry buttermilk pancake casserole a smooth and enjoyable process.

• 9×13 inch baking dish: This size is perfect for baking an even casserole that serves a crowd.
• Medium saucepan: Crucial for simmering your flavorful blueberry filling.
• Large mixing bowls (2): Separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients ensure proper mixing without overworking the batter.
• Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly and preventing lumps in both the batter and cornstarch slurry.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy in measurements is key for perfect results every time.
• Spatula or spoon: For spreading batter and filling evenly in the baking dish.

Recipe Overview

Get ready to create a masterpiece with this delicious Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 12 squares
• Difficulty: Easy

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this delightful Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole is surprisingly simple and requires just 17 easy steps. Follow these instructions closely for a perfect, fluffy, and fruity breakfast.

1. STEP 1: COMBINE BLUEBERRIES, SUGAR, AND LEMON JUICE

   • In a medium saucepan, combine 3 cups of the fresh blueberries, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons lemon juice.
   • Gently stir these vibrant ingredients together.
   • Pro Tip: Reserving 1 cup of blueberries ensures you have fresh, plump bursts of fruit in the final casserole, preventing them from completely bursting during the initial cooking stage.

2. STEP 2: COOK THE BLUEBERRY MIXTURE

   • Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
   • Stir occasionally, watching as the sugar dissolves completely and the blueberries begin to soften and release their beautiful, vibrant juices.

3. STEP 3: THICKEN THE FILLING WITH CORNSTARCH

   • In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water until a smooth slurry forms.
   • This slurry is vital for achieving a perfectly thickened sauce without any lumps.

4. STEP 4: INCORPORATE THE CORNSTARCH SLURRY

   • Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering blueberry mixture, stirring constantly.
   • Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and coats the back of a spoon. The aroma will be incredible!

5. STEP 5: ADD REMAINING BLUEBERRIES AND COOL

   • Remove the saucepan from the heat and gently stir in the remaining 1 cup of fresh blueberries.
   • Set the blueberry filling aside to cool slightly while you prepare the pancake batter. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

6. STEP 6: WHISK DRY INGREDIENTS

   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar.
   • Ensure everything is well combined to guarantee even leavening throughout your casserole.

7. STEP 7: COMBINE WET INGREDIENTS

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   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the lightly beaten eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
   • Troubleshooting Tip: Make sure your melted butter has cooled slightly before adding it to the eggs; this prevents the eggs from cooking prematurely.

8. STEP 8: COMBINE WET AND DRY INGREDIENTS

   • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently whisk until just combined.
   • Be careful not to overmix the batter; a few small lumps are perfectly fine and will result in a more tender pancake. Overmixing can develop the gluten, leading to a tough texture.

9. STEP 9: PREHEAT OVEN AND GREASE BAKING DISH

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.

10. STEP 10: POUR HALF OF THE PANCAKE BATTER

    • Pour half of the prepared pancake batter into the greased baking dish.
    • Spread it evenly across the bottom using a spatula.

11. STEP 11: SPREAD THE BLUEBERRY FILLING

    • Spoon the slightly cooled blueberry filling evenly over the layer of pancake batter.
    • Distribute the blueberries and sauce consistently for a burst of flavor in every single bite.

12. STEP 12: TOP WITH REMAINING PANCAKE BATTER

    • Pour the remaining pancake batter over the blueberry filling, spreading it as evenly as possible.
    • Don’t worry if a little bit of the blueberry filling peeks through in spots; it adds to the rustic charm.

13. STEP 13: BAKE IN PREHEATED OVEN

    • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes.
    • The casserole should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Baking time may vary by oven, so keep a watchful eye!

14. STEP 14: LET COOL SLIGHTLY

    • Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
    • This brief cooling period helps the casserole set, making it much easier to cut into neat squares.

15. STEP 15: WHISK TOGETHER GLAZE INGREDIENTS (OPTIONAL)

    • While the casserole bakes or cools, prepare your buttermilk glaze.
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons buttermilk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
    • Add more buttermilk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired pourable, yet not-too-thin consistency.

16. STEP 16: DRIZZLE WITH GLAZE (OPTIONAL)

    • Drizzle the luscious buttermilk glaze generously over the warm pancake casserole.
    • This adds another layer of sweetness and a beautiful finish.

17. STEP 17: SERVE AND ENJOY!

    • Cut the casserole into squares and serve warm.
    • Top with additional maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, and a few fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of elegance and freshness. Enjoy your truly delicious Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole!

CHECK OUT: Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole – Another fantastic breakfast bake that’s perfect for a crowd!

Tips for Success

Elevate your Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole from great to extraordinary with these expert tips:

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough pancakes. Whisk until just combined; a few lumps are fine!
• Cool Melted Butter: Ensure your melted butter is cooled before adding it to the wet ingredients to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
• Cook Blueberries Gently: Simmer the blueberries just until they release juices and thicken. Overcooking can make them mushy.
• Grease Your Dish Generously: A well-greased baking dish prevents sticking and ensures your casserole slides out easily for serving.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making for cleaner slices.

Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize your Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole to suit your preferences or dietary needs!

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free buttermilk (plant-based milk + lemon juice/vinegar) and dairy-free butter.
• Mixed Berries: Swap half the blueberries for raspberries, blackberries, or sliced strawberries for a mixed berry delight.
• Lemon Zest: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for an extra bright, citrusy punch.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top layer of batter before baking for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

This delightful Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole is a meal in itself, but these additions can make it even more special:

• Classic Toppings: A generous drizzle of warm maple syrup and a dollop of freshly whipped cream are always a hit.
• Fresh Fruit Medley: Serve alongside a bowl of mixed fresh berries, sliced bananas, or peaches.
• Savory Side: Pair with a side of crispy oven-baked plant-based sausage patties or a simple scrambled egg for a balanced meal.
• Beverage Pairings: A hot cup of coffee, iced tea, or a tall glass of orange juice perfectly complements the sweet flavors.
• Yogurt Swirl: Offer a side of Greek yogurt for a creamy, protein-rich counterpoint.

Health Benefits

Beyond its delicious taste, this Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole offers some wonderful nutritional perks:

• Antioxidant Rich: Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage.
• Good Source of Fiber: The fresh blueberries contribute dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting fullness.
• Calcium Boost: Buttermilk provides a healthy dose of calcium, essential for strong bones.
• Energy Fuel: Carbohydrates from flour and natural sugars offer sustained energy for your morning.
• Protein Power: Eggs and buttermilk add protein, helping you feel satisfied and energized.

Storage & Reheating

Planning ahead or enjoying leftovers from your Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole is incredibly simple!

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, slice the cooled casserole into individual portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating (Oven): For best results, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Reheating (Microwave): Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until hot. Be careful not to overheat to maintain a tender texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a stellar Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole:

• Can I use frozen blueberries?Yes, you absolutely can! If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them before combining with sugar and lemon juice in Step 1. They will release more liquid, which is fine, and cook similarly.

• What if I don’t have buttermilk?No problem! You can easily make your own. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a liquid measuring cup, then fill the rest with regular milk (dairy or non-dairy) until it reaches 2 cups. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles.

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?Yes, you can! Prepare the blueberry filling and the pancake batter separately. Store them covered in the refrigerator overnight. Assemble the casserole in the morning and bake as directed. You can also assemble the entire casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and bake it straight from the fridge (it might need an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time).

• How do I know when the casserole is fully baked?The casserole is ready when it’s golden brown on top, puffed up, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with no wet batter clinging to it.

• Can I reduce the sugar?

  
  

  Certainly! You can reduce the granulated sugar in both the blueberry filling and the pancake batter by a tablespoon or two, especially if your blueberries are very sweet or if you plan on adding plenty of maple syrup.

  
  

More Delicious Dishes

If you loved this Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole, you’ll adore these other delightful recipes perfect for breakfast or brunch!

• Fluffy Homemade Pancakes – Master the classic individual pancake for any day of the week.
• Blueberry Cottage Cheese Muffins – A moist and flavorful muffin bursting with blueberries and added protein.
• Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal: The Ultimate Cozy Breakfast – Indulge in a warm, cinnamon-spiced breakfast bake that feels like a treat.

Conclusion

This Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole is truly a breakfast game-changer – easy to make, utterly delicious, and perfect for any occasion. We hope you savor every fluffy, fruity bite! Follow us on Facebook and Pinterest for more delightful recipes.

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