Description
A luscious Berry Croissant Bake that transforms day-old croissants and fresh mixed berries into a rich, custardy breakfast treat. Perfectly baked until golden and set, this comforting dish is flavored with vanilla and cinnamon, making it an ideal recipe for family brunches or cozy weekend mornings.
Ingredients
Scale
Croissant and Fruit
- 4 large croissants (preferably a day or two old, cut into chunks)
- 1 ½ cups mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
Custard
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or any milk of choice)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- ¼ tsp salt
Other
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and facilitate even baking.
- Prepare the Croissants: Tear the croissants into large chunks and scatter them evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the mixed berries evenly over the croissant chunks to distribute the fruit throughout the bake.
- Make the Custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon if using, and salt until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, which will form a rich custard base for soaking the croissants.
- Assemble the Bake: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissant chunks and berries, making sure the croissants get thoroughly soaked. Gently press down the croissants with a spoon to help them absorb the custard and ensure an even texture after baking.
- Add Butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the custard-soaked croissant and berry mixture; this will add richness and help create a golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. Test doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean without wet custard.
- Serve: Let the bake cool for a few minutes to set further, then garnish with powdered sugar if desired before serving. Enjoy warm as a delicious breakfast or brunch treat.
Notes
- Using day-old croissants helps them absorb the custard better without becoming too soggy.
- You can substitute any milk of choice, including almond or oat milk, to accommodate dietary preferences.
- Feel free to use any mix of fresh or frozen berries for convenience.
- For extra texture, add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts before baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
