Breakfast Croissant Casserole

Name: Breakfast Croissant Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 6 large butter croissants, torn into pieces; 6 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries and raspberries); Powdered sugar for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Hearty Family Meals

I love starting my mornings with a delicious breakfast, and this Breakfast Croissant Casserole has quickly become a family favorite. The combination of buttery croissants, rich custard, and sweet berries fills my kitchen with a warm aroma that’s simply irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy morning at home. Easy to prepare ahead of time, it’s like a hug in food form, bringing comfort and joy with every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it out for yourself!

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2026-02-06T18:13:36.144Z

One weekend morning, as I rummaged through my pantry, I noticed a few stale croissants. Instead of letting them go to waste, I decided to experiment by turning them into a breakfast casserole. The result was nothing short of delightful! I used a mixture of eggs, cream, and seasonal berries, which all blended wonderfully. This dish not only saved my croissants but also became a delightful centerpiece for our breakfast table.

One of my favorite aspects of this casserole is its versatility; you can customize it with different fruits or even chocolate chips. I often add a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth. The golden top that forms in the oven is simply irresistible. The best part? You can prep it the night before and pop it in the oven when you wake up!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Buttery croissants soaked in a creamy custard
Versatile enough for any fruit or flavor addition
Perfect for brunches or special gatherings

Understanding the Role of Croissants

The buttery croissants are the star of this casserole, providing a rich, flaky texture that absorbs the custard beautifully. When torn into pieces, they create pockets that hold the creamy milk and egg mixture, which helps to form a delightful custard layer during baking. Using day-old croissants enhances this dish, as slightly stale bread soaks up more of the liquid without becoming too mushy, ensuring the casserole maintains its structure once baked.

For optimal results, aim for high-quality butter croissants, as they contribute to the overall flavor profile. If you can’t find croissants, buttery brioche or challah can serve as a substitute, although the final texture will differ slightly. The key is to utilize a bread that will remain airy and light after baking, while still soaking up the delicious custard.

Perfecting the Custard

The custard is what brings this casserole to life, fusing the croissants and fruits into a cohesive dish. When whisking together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon, ensure that the mixture is thoroughly combined so that each croissant piece is evenly coated. This will help prevent any clumps of egg from forming during baking. A good whisking will also aerate the mixture, contributing to a fluffier texture once baked.

If you’re looking to customize the flavor of your custard, consider adding a teaspoon of nutmeg or using almond milk instead of whole milk for a nutty twist. Keep in mind that different milk types may result in slight variations in texture, so adjustments in baking time and temperature may be necessary to achieve your desired outcome.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious breakfast experience!

Ingredients

6 large butter croissants, torn into pieces
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries and raspberries)
Powdered sugar for serving (optional)

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting the preparation!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Breakfast Croissant Casserole.

Prepare the Croissants

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place the torn croissant pieces in the dish evenly.

Make the Custard Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Pour this mixture over the croissants, ensuring everything is well soaked. Gently fold in the mixed berries.

Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the top is golden and set.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and enjoy!

Enjoy your delightful Breakfast Croissant Casserole!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a drizzle of maple syrup on top or a side of fresh fruit for serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Breakfast Croissant Casserole is ideal for preparation the night before. Simply assemble the dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate overnight. This allows the croissants to soak up the custard fully, which enhances the flavor and texture when baked. In the morning, you can remove it from the fridge while preheating the oven to ensure even baking.

If time is of the essence, you can also freeze the assembled casserole. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and when you’re ready to bake, take it out a day ahead to defrost in the fridge. Bake as directed, but add a few extra minutes to account for the chill.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Breakfast Croissant Casserole warm, garnished with a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. It pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of yogurt for creaminess and tang. Fresh mint leaves on top add a lovely color contrast and fresh flavor to each bite.

For an extra burst of fruitiness, consider serving it alongside additional mixed berries or a homemade berry compote. A drizzle of maple syrup or honey can also elevate the flavor, balancing the sweetness of the dish with a rich, sticky finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

→ What other fruits can I use?

You can use any seasonal fruits such as peaches, strawberries, or even chocolate chunks for a sweeter twist!

→ Can I substitute the milk?

Yes! You can use almond milk, oat milk, or any milk alternatives, but be aware that they may alter the flavor slightly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.