Short Description
French Toast Casserole with Croissants is a rich and indulgent breakfast dish that combines flaky, buttery croissants with a sweet cinnamon-infused custard. Baked to perfection and topped with powdered sugar or maple syrup, this easy make-ahead casserole is perfect for brunch or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses buttery croissants for a rich, flaky texture
- Simple ingredients and easy to prepare
- Perfect for feeding a crowd
- Can be made ahead for stress-free mornings
- Versatile and customizable with different add-ins
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Croissants (preferably day-old)
- Eggs
- Whole milk
- Heavy cream
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon
- Salt
- Powdered sugar (for garnish)
- Maple syrup (for serving)
Directions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Tear Croissants: Tear the croissants into large chunks and arrange them evenly in the baking dish.
- Make the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, both sugars, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
- Soak the Croissants: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants, pressing down slightly to ensure they soak up the liquid.
- Chill (Optional): Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and set.
- Serve: Let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time (Optional): 30 minutes to overnight
- Bake Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Variations
- Berry Bliss: Add fresh blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries before baking.
- Chocolate Twist: Sprinkle chocolate chips between the croissants for a sweet surprise.
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Savory Option: Skip the sugar and add shredded cheese and cooked bacon for a savory twist.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Use almond milk and coconut cream instead of dairy.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 30 seconds.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
FAQs
Can I use fresh croissants?
Day-old croissants work best as they absorb the custard better without becoming too soggy.
Do I have to let it sit overnight?
No, but letting it sit allows the flavors to meld and the croissants to fully absorb the custard.
Can I add cream cheese?
Yes! Adding dollops of sweetened cream cheese between the croissant pieces makes it extra rich.
How do I prevent the top from burning?
If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free croissants or a sturdy gluten-free bread.
What’s the best way to serve this dish?
Top with maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of cinnamon sugar.
Can I add alcohol for extra flavor?
A splash of bourbon or Grand Marnier in the custard adds a delightful depth of flavor.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 3-4 hours or until set.
Can I use brioche instead of croissants?
Yes! Brioche makes an excellent substitute with a slightly different texture.
How do I make this extra crispy?
Bake uncovered for the entire time and broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for a crispy top.
Conclusion
French Toast Casserole with Croissants is the perfect dish for a special breakfast or brunch. With its buttery croissants, sweet cinnamon-infused custard, and endless customization options, this easy make-ahead dish is sure to become a favorite in your home!
PrintFrench Toast Casserole with Croissants
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This French Toast Casserole with Croissants is buttery, flaky, and soaked in a rich cinnamon-vanilla custard, then baked to golden perfection. Topped with powdered sugar and maple syrup, this easy make-ahead dish is perfect for brunch, special occasions, or a cozy weekend breakfast.
Ingredients
- For the Casserole:
- 6 large croissants, torn into large pieces
- 5 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Maple syrup (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Arrange the croissant pieces evenly in the dish.
- Make the Custard:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants, pressing down slightly so they soak up the liquid.
- Chill (Optional for Overnight Casserole):
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
- Prepare the Topping:
- Mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Drizzle over the casserole before baking.
- Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, until golden brown and set.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Let cool for 5 minutes, then dust with powdered sugar.
- Serve warm with maple syrup.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole the night before and bake in the morning.
- Add-Ins: Mix in fresh berries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts for extra flavor.
- Serving Idea: Pair with crispy bacon or fresh fruit for a complete brunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, French
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Keywords: Croissant French Toast, Baked French Toast, Brunch Casserole, Overnight French Toast, Holiday Breakfast
- Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
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