Croissant Breakfast Casserole

There’s something undeniably luxurious about a croissant. Their flaky, buttery layers are a testament to the art of pastry-making, and when you turn those croissants into a breakfast casserole, magic happens. This Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a delightful twist on your traditional breakfast bake. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy family breakfast, this dish combines the rich flavors of cream cheese, fresh berries, and the comforting texture of croissants, creating a dish that is sure to impress.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

The Croissant Breakfast Casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagine waking up to the aroma of baked croissants mingling with sweet berries and a hint of lemon. This casserole is the epitome of indulgence, and it’s easy to prepare. It’s versatile enough to serve for special occasions or as a comforting weekend breakfast. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover croissants, making it both practical and delicious.

Ingredient Breakdown

To make this decadent Croissant Breakfast Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

• 6 large day-old croissants – Cubed into 1-inch pieces, these will form the base of your casserole, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
• 1 cup mixed berries – A combination of blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries adds a burst of sweetness and freshness.
• 10 ounces cream cheese – Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing; this will give the casserole its rich and creamy texture.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar – This sweetness balances the tartness of the berries.
• 4 large eggs – These bind the ingredients together, creating a custard-like filling.
• 1 cup half and half – Adds creaminess and richness to the casserole.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest – Freshens up the dish with a zesty kick.
• 3 tablespoons salted butter – Softened, for greasing the baking dish and adding flavor.
• 1 cup powdered sugar – For the delicious lemon glaze.
• 2 tablespoons half and half – To thin out the glaze slightly.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens the glaze with a citrusy punch.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest – For an extra layer of lemony goodness in the glaze.
• Powdered sugar for dusting – Optional, but it adds a lovely finishing touch.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before you start, make sure you have these essential tools:

• 9×13-inch baking dish – The ideal size for this casserole.
• Mixing bowls – For mixing the cream cheese and egg mixture.
• Whisk – To thoroughly combine your ingredients.
• Spatula – For folding in the croissant pieces and berries.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key to a successful casserole.
• Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot dishes!

Croissant Breakfast Casserole — Do This Next

Now that you have all the ingredients and tools ready, let’s dive into the steps to create your Croissant Breakfast Casserole.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole cooks evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Use the softened salted butter to grease your 9×13-inch baking dish. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and add a touch of flavor.

Step 3: Cube the Croissants

Take your day-old croissants and cut them into 1-inch pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Step 4: Add the Berries

Gently fold in the mixed berries with the croissant pieces, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth.

Step 6: Incorporate Eggs and Half and Half

Add the eggs, half and half, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture. Whisk until everything is fully combined and smooth.

Step 7: Combine Mixtures

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the croissant and berry mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold everything together, making sure the croissants are well-coated.

Step 8: Bake

Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

Step 9: Prepare the Lemon Glaze

While the casserole is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, half and half, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 10: Drizzle and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, let it cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the top, and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Cut into squares and serve warm.

Make It Your Way

This Croissant Breakfast Casserole is wonderfully versatile. Here are some variations to consider:

• Different Berries: Swap the mixed berries for your favorites like blackberries, peaches, or even chocolate chips for a sweeter option.
• Nutty Addition: Add a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
• Spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile.
• Savory Twist: For a savory version, consider adding diced ham, cooked sausage, or sautéed vegetables.

Avoid These Traps

While making your Croissant Breakfast Casserole, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

• Using Fresh Croissants: Fresh croissants may not absorb the custard as well, resulting in a soggy casserole.
• Overmixing: Be gentle when folding the croissants and berries into the mixture; you want to preserve the texture.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing the casserole to cool slightly before serving helps it set up better, making it easier to cut.
• Not Greasing the Dish: Ensuring your baking dish is well-greased will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare but possible), here’s how to keep your casserole fresh:

Store any uneaten casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or pop it back into a preheated oven until heated through. You can also freeze the casserole before baking; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and follow the baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Quick Q&A

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

What can I substitute for half and half?

If you don’t have half and half, you can mix equal parts milk and heavy cream for a similar effect.

Can I use different types of bread?

Absolutely! While croissants provide a unique texture and flavor, you can use any type of bread you prefer, such as brioche or challah.

Is this casserole suitable for freezing?

Yes, this casserole freezes well before baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

The Last Word

There’s a reason the Croissant Breakfast Casserole is quickly becoming a beloved recipe in many kitchens. It combines the elegance of croissants with the comforting familiarity of a breakfast bake, making it a crowd-pleaser for both adults and kids alike. The luscious cream cheese filling, paired with the sweetness of berries and the zesty lemon glaze, creates a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

So, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting a brunch, or simply treating yourself to a delightful breakfast, this Croissant Breakfast Casserole is sure to become a favorite. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy yet elegant dish that truly elevates the breakfast experience. Enjoy!

Croissant Breakfast Casserole

This Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a delightful twist on breakfast! Flaky croissants, cream cheese, and fresh berries create a luxurious dish everyone will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine: French

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Casserole:

• 6 large day-old croissants Cubed into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup mixed berries A combination of blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries
• 10 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup half and half
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 3 tablespoons salted butter softened, for greasing the baking dish
• 1 cup powdered sugar for the lemon glaze
• 2 tablespoons half and half to thin out the glaze
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice for the glaze
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest for the glaze
• to taste powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Equipment

• 9x13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven mitts

Method

 

Instructions:

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: Grease your 9x13-inch baking dish with softened salted butter.
3. Step 3: Cube the day-old croissants into 1-inch pieces and place in a large mixing bowl.
4. Step 4: Gently fold in the mixed berries with the croissant pieces.
5. Step 5: In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth.
6. Step 6: Add eggs, half and half, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture. Whisk until smooth.
7. Step 7: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the croissant and berry mixture and gently fold together.
8. Step 8: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes.
9. Step 9: While baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, half and half, lemon juice, and lemon zest for the glaze.
10. Step 10: Once baked, let cool slightly, drizzle the lemon glaze on top, dust with powdered sugar if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.
• This casserole can be assembled the night before for convenience.