Sweet Breakfast Croissant Casserole

Name: Sweet Breakfast Croissant Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 6 large croissants, cut into pieces; 4 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup mixed berries (optional); Powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats & Homemade Desserts

I absolutely love making this Sweet Breakfast Croissant Casserole for brunch gatherings. The flaky croissants soak up the creamy custard mixture, creating a decadent dish that feels both indulgent and comforting. With hints of vanilla and a touch of sweetness, this casserole is perfect for showcasing seasonal fruits or drizzling with syrup. It's easy to prepare ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or special occasions when I want to impress my guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-25T17:57:28.294Z

When I first made this Sweet Breakfast Croissant Casserole, I was amazed at how easily it came together while still giving that delicious brunch feeling. The buttery croissants remain soft, letting the rich custard permeate every bite. I found that letting it sit overnight enhances the flavors, allowing the croissants to really soak up the egg mixture.

One of my favorite tips is to use a mix of fruits on top—like berries or peaches—because they add a lovely burst of freshness and contrast to the sweet custard. This dish has quickly become a favorite at family gatherings and is always met with smiles!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Luxuriously creamy texture with a hint of vanilla
Flaky, buttery croissants that melt in your mouth
Easily customizable with seasonal fruits or your favorite toppings

Perfecting the Custard

The custard is the heart of this casserole, and its texture is crucial for a successful dish. Whisking the eggs, milk, heavy cream, and sugar together until the mixture is well combined is vital. You want to ensure there are no lumps, as this can lead to uneven cooking or a grainy texture. Aim for a glossy, pale yellow mixture that coats the back of a spoon. This will create that luxurious custard texture once baked.

Letting the croissants soak in the custard is equally important. Ideally, allow the mixture to sit for at least one hour, but overnight is best if time permits. This allows the croissants to absorb the custard fully, resulting in a decadently creamy bite. Make sure that every piece is well-coated to prevent any dry spots from forming during baking.

Choosing the Right Croissants

When selecting croissants, the fresher, the better. Look for those with a shiny, golden-brown exterior and flaky layers. Stale or pre-packaged croissants can work in a pinch, but may result in a less desirable texture. If using older croissants, consider letting them dry out a bit before use to allow for better custard absorption.

For added flavor, you can try using almond croissants or those filled with chocolate. However, this will change the overall taste profile of the casserole, so adjust your toppings and syrup accordingly. If you're feeling adventurous, feel free to mix two types of croissants together for a delightful variation.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Serve this casserole warm for the best taste experience. Pair it with fresh whipped cream or a dollop of yogurt to cut through the richness. Drizzling with maple syrup or a fruit compote adds not only sweetness but also a lovely texture contrast. Garnish with extra berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon for visual appeal and flavor enhancement.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat portions in the microwave or place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore that delightful custard creaminess and flaky texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a warm and inviting dish:

Ingredients

6 large croissants, cut into pieces
4 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup mixed berries (optional)
Powdered sugar for dusting

Make sure to have everything measured out before you begin!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your casserole:

Prepare the Croissants

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the cut croissants with the mixed berries, if using. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

Make the Custard

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.

Combine Everything

Pour the custard mixture over the croissant and berry mixture, ensuring all pieces are evenly soaked. You can cover it and refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight.

Bake

Bake for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden and the custard is set. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serve

Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm, topped with additional fruits or syrup.

This casserole is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the custard mixture or top with a drizzle of maple syrup.

Customizing Your Casserole

This Sweet Breakfast Croissant Casserole is highly adaptable. Besides berries, consider adding sliced bananas, peaches, or even chocolate chips for a sweeter version. The custard base harmonizes beautifully with various fruits, creating layers of flavor that are both indulgent and fresh. Just be mindful that adding wet fruits like strawberries may require slight adjustments in baking time due to increased moisture.

You can also experiment with different flavorings in the custard, such as adding a splash of orange juice or zest for brightness. A pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon can enhance the warming flavors, making this casserole even more comforting, especially during cooler months.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your casserole ends up too soggy, it might be due to excessive soaking time or too much liquid in the custard. Aim for a balanced ratio of custard to croissant. If you notice your dish is very wet before baking, consider adding another croissant or allowing it to sit uncovered in the fridge for a while to help some moisture evaporate.

Conversely, if the casserole is dry after baking, it may have been cooked too long or at too high a temperature. When the top turns golden and the custard is set, it’s essential to remove it from the oven promptly. An oven thermometer can help ensure accurate temperature readings for consistent results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use stale croissants?

Yes, stale croissants work wonderfully as they absorb the custard even better!

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and bake it the next morning.

→ Can I use different types of bread?

Absolutely! Brioche or challah bread would also work well in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.