Overnight Croissant Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Breakfast Recipe

Overnight Croissant Casserole is a delightful dish that transforms the classic croissant into a warm, comforting breakfast that everyone will love. Imagine waking up to the enticing aroma of buttery croissants mingling with rich custard and sweet toppings, all baked to golden perfection. This recipe has its roots in French cuisine, where croissants are a staple, but it has evolved into a beloved breakfast option in many households around the world.

People adore this Overnight Croissant Casserole not just for its incredible taste and texture, but also for its convenience. You can prepare it the night before, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely morning without the stress of cooking. The combination of flaky croissants soaked in a creamy mixture creates a dish that is both indulgent and satisfying. Trust me, once you try this Overnight Croissant Casserole, it will become a cherished part of your breakfast repertoire!

Ingredients:

• 6 large croissants, preferably day-old
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup fresh berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries)
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
• Powdered sugar, for serving
• Maple syrup, for serving

Preparing the Croissants

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown. 2. Take the croissants and slice them in half lengthwise. If you have day-old croissants, they will be easier to cut and will hold their shape better during baking. If your croissants are fresh, you might want to let them sit out for a few hours to dry out slightly. 3. Once sliced, cut each half into bite-sized pieces. I usually aim for about 1-inch pieces, but you can adjust based on your preference. Place the pieces in a large mixing bowl. 4. If you’re using berries, wash them thoroughly and pat them dry. If you’re using strawberries, slice them into smaller pieces. Set the berries aside for later.

Preparing the Custard Mixture

5. In a separate large mixing bowl, crack the 6 large eggs. Whisk them together until they are well combined and slightly frothy. This will help incorporate air into the custard, making it light and fluffy. 6. Add the 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream to the eggs. Whisk until everything is well blended. The combination of milk and cream will give your casserole a rich and creamy texture. 7. Next, add the 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to the egg mixture. Whisk again until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. The sugar will add sweetness, while the cinnamon will provide a warm, comforting flavor.

Assembling the Casserole

8. Now it’s time to combine the croissant pieces with the custard mixture. Pour the custard over the croissant pieces in the large mixing bowl. Gently fold the croissants into the custard, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Be careful not to break the croissants too much; you want to maintain some texture. 9. If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage. They will melt slightly during baking, creating delicious pockets of chocolate throughout the casserole. 10. Once everything is well combined, add the fresh berries to the mixture. Gently fold them in, distributing them evenly throughout the croissant and custard mixture. 11. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Pour the croissant mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Make sure to tuck in any croissant pieces that are sticking up to ensure even cooking.

Chilling the Casserole

12. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This step is crucial as it allows the croissants to soak up the custard overnight, resulting in a more flavorful and moist casserole. 13. Place the covered casserole in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 8 hours, or overnight. This is the perfect time to prepare for your breakfast or brunch the next day!

Baking the Casserole

14. The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you haven’t done so already. Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes while the oven heats up. This helps to ensure even cooking. 15. Once the oven is preheated, uncover the casserole and place it in the oven. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean. 16. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking to prevent it from burning.

Serving the Casserole

17.

Conclusion:

In summary, this Overnight Croissant Casserole is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their breakfast game. The combination of buttery croissants, rich custard, and a hint of sweetness creates a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself to a cozy morning at home, this casserole is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing it with fresh fruit, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. You can also experiment with variations by adding your favorite ingredients, such as chocolate chips, berries, or even a sprinkle of nuts for added texture. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste preferences. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Overnight Croissant Casserole a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the joy of this delightful dish together! Remember, the magic of this Overnight Croissant Casserole is just a recipe away, so don’t hesitate to dive in and enjoy every bite. Print