Description
This Berry Croissant Bake is a delightful and easy-to-make breakfast casserole combining flaky croissants with a medley of fresh berries and a creamy custard mixture. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion, this dish offers a golden, custard-soaked base bursting with vibrant strawberry, blueberry, and raspberry flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Croissants and Berries
- 4 large croissants, broken into small pieces (use already baked croissants, not croissant dough)
- 1 cup sliced strawberries
- ½ cup blueberries
- ½ cup raspberries
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 1 block (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and lightly spray a 9 x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Croissants and Berries: Place the broken croissant pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish. Distribute the sliced strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries evenly over the croissants to ensure each bite has a burst of berry flavor.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy and smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is creamy.
- Combine and Chill: Pour the cream cheese custard mixture evenly over the croissants and berries in the baking dish, making sure the bread soaks up the custard. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 14 hours, to allow the flavors to meld and the croissants to absorb the custard.
- Bake: Remove the cover and bake the dish in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. The bake should be slightly puffed and firm to touch.
- Serve: Serve the Berry Croissant Bake warm. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with syrup for extra sweetness. Enjoy this comforting and fruity breakfast treat!
Notes
- Use pre-baked croissants to ensure the bake turns out flaky and crispy on the edges.
- Feel free to substitute or add other berries such as blackberries or cherries depending on seasonal availability.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and milk with plant-based alternatives.
- The chill time in the fridge is flexible; longer soaking yields a more custardy texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the oven or microwave.
