Ingredients
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup, plus more for serving
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Main Components
- 8 large croissants, roughly torn
- ⅓ cup jam (blueberry, strawberry, or blackberry)
- 8 ounces whipped cream cheese, room temperature
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, thinly sliced
Toppings
- 1 cup berries, divided (blueberries, strawberries, or blackberries)
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar, or more for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
- Layer the croissants and jam: Roughly tear the croissants into bite-sized pieces and place half of them in a greased baking dish. Dollop half of the whipped cream cheese and spoon half of the jam over the croissants. Repeat with the remaining croissants, cream cheese, and jam, creating a layered effect.
- Pour custard over layers: Pour the prepared egg and milk custard evenly over the layered croissants, ensuring all pieces are well soaked. Gently press down slightly to submerge the croissants into the mixture.
- Top with butter slices: Evenly distribute the thin slices of unsalted butter on top of the custard-soaked croissants to add richness and promote browning during baking.
- Let soak and preheat oven: Allow the dish to soak for at least 15 minutes at room temperature to let the croissants absorb the custard thoroughly. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown, the custard is set, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Add fresh berries and powdered sugar: Remove the French toast bake from the oven and let it cool slightly. Top with the remaining fresh berries and dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
- Serve: Serve warm with additional maple syrup on the side for drizzling, if desired. Enjoy your comforting, creamy, and flavorful croissant French toast bake!
Notes
- Use day-old croissants for best texture as they absorb the custard better.
- Room temperature cream cheese ensures easier spreading and mixing.
- You can prepare the bake the night before and refrigerate it, then bake in the morning for convenience.
- Feel free to substitute whole milk with half-and-half for a richer custard.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup or jam based on preference.
- Different berry combinations can be used based on seasonality and taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American