Description
This Berry Croissant Breakfast Bake is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines flaky croissants with a luscious custard and fresh mixed berries. Perfect for a weekend brunch or special breakfast, it features a creamy custard soaking into buttery croissants topped with vibrant berries and a dusting of powdered sugar. Ready in just over an hour, it’s a crowd-pleaser that offers a comforting balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Croissant Base
- 6 croissants (slightly stale or day-old for optimal flakiness)
Berries
- 2 cups mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries)
Custard Mixture
- 2 cups whole milk (can substitute with almond or oat milk)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or additional milk or non-dairy cream)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (pure for best flavor)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Finishing Touch
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting before serving)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Layer Croissants: Slice the croissants into halves or quarters and arrange them evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the base.
- Add Berries: Evenly sprinkle the mixed berries over the croissant pieces to distribute the fruit throughout the dish.
- Make Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and optional lemon zest until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine and Soak: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants and berries. Gently press down the croissant pieces to help them absorb the custard. Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate overnight for best results.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until the custard is set around the edges and the top is a golden brown color.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the bake to cool for 10-15 minutes. Just before serving, dust the top generously with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
Notes
- Using day-old croissants helps them absorb the custard better without becoming soggy.
- You can prepare the bake the night before by letting it soak overnight in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor and texture.
- Substitute dairy milk and cream with non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk if desired.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for extra warmth and spice.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch.
