Croissant Breakfast Casserole

There’s something so special about waking up to the aroma of a freshly baked Croissant Breakfast Casserole. Picture this: it’s a Sunday morning, the sun is shining through the kitchen window, and the whole family is gathered around the table, excited for a delicious breakfast. I love making this dish for those relaxed mornings when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones. The beauty of a Croissant Breakfast Casserole lies in its simplicity and the way it transforms stale croissants into something truly magical. The rich cream cheese, mixed berries, and a hint of lemon zest create a symphony of flavors that dance in your mouth. This is more than just a breakfast; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Each bite is soft and custardy, perfectly complemented by the sweetness of the berries. I often find myself reminiscing about the first time I made this casserole, and it quickly became a family favorite.

What to Gather for Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Gathering ingredients for the Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a breeze. This dish celebrates the beauty of basic ingredients that, when combined, create something spectacular. The key players include luscious croissants, creamy cheese, and fresh berries that add a burst of flavor. Each ingredient plays a vital role in bringing the casserole to life and ensuring a delightful breakfast experience.

• 6 large day-old croissants cubed into 1-inch pieces: The heart of the casserole, these croissants soak up the custard, making the dish soft and flavorful.
• 1 ½ cups mixed berries: These provide freshness and a natural sweetness that balances the richness of the dish.
• 10 ounces cream cheese room temperature: This gives the casserole a creamy texture and rich flavor.
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar: This adds sweetness to the custard mixture.
• 4 large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and create a custard-like texture.
• 1 ⅓ cups half and half: This adds creaminess and richness to the custard.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: For a warm, sweet aroma.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Adds a bright, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness.
• 3 tablespoons salted butter softened: Used in the glaze, it adds richness and flavor.
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar: This sweetens the glaze and adds a lovely finish to the casserole.
• 2 tablespoons half and half: For the glaze, it keeps it creamy.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Enhances the flavor of the glaze.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: For an extra zing in the glaze.
• powdered sugar for dusting: A final sweet touch.

How to Make Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Making a Croissant Breakfast Casserole is straightforward and enjoyable. The process allows you to get your family involved, making breakfast an even more memorable occasion. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious dish.

1. Start by spraying a 9-inch oval baking dish or a 9×9 baking dish with pan spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking. Next, take the 6 large day-old croissants and cut them into 1-inch cubes. Place these cubes into a large mixing bowl along with 1 ½ cups mixed berries. This combination is the base of your casserole, and the croissants will soak up the custard beautifully.

2. In a separate large bowl, add 10 ounces cream cheese and ⅔ cup granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat these together until smooth and creamy. Make sure to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to incorporate everything fully. This mixture is key to the creamy texture of your casserole.

3. Next, add 4 large eggs, one at a time, to the cream cheese mixture. Beat well after each addition until fully incorporated. This step is crucial for creating a smooth custard base.

4. Slowly pour in 1 ⅓ cups half and half while mixing. This will create a creamy custard that binds the casserole together. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed to keep the mixture smooth.

5. Now, mix in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon lemon zest. The vanilla and lemon will add depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your casserole.

6. Pour the custard mixture over the cubed croissants and berries. Toss gently until all the croissants are covered in the custard. This is where the magic begins—allowing the croissants to absorb the custard mixture ensures a moist and flavorful dish.

7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and cover it with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate overnight, or at least for 6 hours. This step allows the croissants to soak up the custard fully, making everything deliciously soft.

8. In the morning, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the dish from the fridge and let it come to room temperature while the oven heats. This ensures even cooking.

9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted comes out clean from the custard. The aroma will be incredible!

10. Once baked, let the casserole cool for about 15 minutes before serving. This cooling time allows the casserole to set up nicely.

11. While it cools, prepare the glaze by beating 3 tablespoons salted butter, 1 ½ cups powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons half and half, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon lemon zest together in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the casserole just before serving and dust it with additional powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.

Recipe Variations about Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Exploring variations of the Croissant Breakfast Casserole can be a fun way to switch things up! Here are some ideas to customize this dish to suit your taste or to try different flavors:

• Add Nuts: Consider mixing in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an added crunch and flavor.
• Explore Different Berries: Feel free to experiment with different types of berries or even add bananas for a unique twist.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips for a decadent version that kids will love.
• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg into the custard mixture.
• Cheesy Goodness: Introduce a layer of cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for a savory twist.
• Seasonal Fruits: Adapt the recipe with seasonal fruits to keep it fresh and exciting throughout the year.

Best Served With

Pairing your Croissant Breakfast Casserole with the right accompaniments can elevate your breakfast experience. Here are some suggestions:

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad is a perfect complement to the richness of the casserole.
• Yogurt Parfaits: Serve with yogurt parfaits layered with granola and fruit for a wholesome breakfast.
• Coffee or Tea: A nice cup of coffee or tea can help balance the sweetness of the casserole.
• Crispy Bacon or Sausages: For those who enjoy a savory addition, crispy bacon or sausages are classic choices.
• Occasions: This dish is ideal for family gatherings, brunch parties, or holiday breakfasts like Christmas or Easter.
• Storing Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a few days and reheated in the oven for a quick breakfast option.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Croissant Breakfast Casserole truly embodies comfort food at its finest with its soft, creamy texture and delightful flavors. Whether it’s a special occasion or simply a weekend breakfast, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed! It’s an easy way to create lasting memories with loved ones over a delicious meal.

Croissant Breakfast Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, this Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a dreamy blend of creamy cheese and sweet berries, all nestled in buttery croissant pieces. Perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts, it’s an easy make-ahead dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Treat yourself to this indulgent recipe tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 6 large day-old croissants cubed into 1-inch pieces
• 1.5 cups mixed berries
• 10 ounces cream cheese room temperature
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1.33 cups half and half
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 3 tablespoons salted butter softened
• 1.5 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons half and half
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

 

• Start by spraying a 9-inch oval baking dish or a 9×9 baking dish with pan spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking. Next, take the 6 large day-old croissants and cut them into 1-inch cubes. Place these cubes into a large mixing bowl along with 1 ½ cups mixed berries. This combination is the base of your casserole, and the croissants will soak up the custard beautifully.
• In a separate large bowl, add 10 ounces cream cheese and ⅔ cup granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat these together until smooth and creamy. Make sure to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to incorporate everything fully. This mixture is key to the creamy texture of your casserole.
• Next, add 4 large eggs, one at a time, to the cream cheese mixture. Beat well after each addition until fully incorporated. This step is crucial for creating a smooth custard base.
• Slowly pour in 1 ⅓ cups half and half while mixing. This will create a creamy custard that binds the casserole together. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed to keep the mixture smooth.
• Now, mix in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon lemon zest. The vanilla and lemon will add depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your casserole.
• Pour the custard mixture over the cubed croissants and berries. Toss gently until all the croissants are covered in the custard. This is where the magic begins—allowing the croissants to absorb the custard mixture ensures a moist and flavorful dish.
• Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and cover it with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate overnight, or at least for 6 hours. This step allows the croissants to soak up the custard fully, making everything deliciously soft.
• In the morning, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the dish from the fridge and let it come to room temperature while the oven heats. This ensures even cooking.
• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted comes out clean from the custard. The aroma will be incredible!
• Once baked, let the casserole cool for about 15 minutes before serving. This cooling time allows the casserole to set up nicely.
• While it cools, prepare the glaze by beating 3 tablespoons salted butter, 1 ½ cups powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons half and half, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon lemon zest together in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the casserole just before serving and dust it with additional powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.

Notes

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before baking. Just thaw before cooking.
• Pairing: Try serving with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for balance.
• Make it Savory: Swap the berries for sautéed vegetables for a savory version.
• Variation: Add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.

Keyword Brunch Recipes, Croissant Breakfast Casserole, Easy Breakfast Casserole, make ahead casserole

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Meet Lydia James

I’m Lydia! I love the challenge of experimenting with new ingredients and finding creative, delicious ways to use up leftovers. My goal is to make your weeknight cooking feel stress-free, exciting, and full of flavor. I loved the creative process behind this dish, and I really hope it becomes a new favorite in your weekly rotation. I can't wait to hear what you think!