Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Croissants take this French toast casserole to the next level—adding extra richness, a delicate texture, and a bakery-quality feel without any extra work. It’s a great way to use leftover croissants and can be made ahead for an effortless morning. Whether you’re hosting or just enjoying a cozy breakfast at home, this casserole is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Croissants (day-old or fresh), torn or sliced into large pieces
- Eggs
- Whole milk or half-and-half
- Heavy cream (optional, for added richness)
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar (optional, for deeper flavor)
- Vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon
- Salt
- Butter (for greasing the baking dish)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for topping)
- Maple syrup or whipped cream (optional, for serving)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Tear or cut croissants into large pieces and arrange them evenly in the baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream (if using), sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants, pressing them gently to soak up the liquid.
- Let sit for 15–30 minutes, or cover and refrigerate overnight for a make-ahead option.
- Bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with syrup or whipped cream if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 to 8 people. Prep time is about 15 minutes, with a bake time of 35–45 minutes. If preparing ahead, allow extra time for overnight refrigeration.
Variations
- Fruit-Filled: Add sliced strawberries, blueberries, or apples between the croissant layers.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top before baking.
- Chocolate Twist: Add chocolate chips or use chocolate croissants for a decadent version.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of sweetened cream cheese between croissant layers for extra richness.
- Spiced: Mix in pumpkin pie spice or nutmeg for a seasonal variation.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm in a 325°F (160°C) oven until heated through. This casserole also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh croissants?
Yes, though slightly stale or day-old croissants absorb the custard better and yield the best texture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning for a no-stress breakfast.
Do I need to toast the croissants first?
Not necessary. The oven will crisp the top while keeping the center soft and custardy.
Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, almond, soy, or oat milk can be used in place of dairy milk.
How do I keep the casserole from being soggy?
Use day-old croissants and avoid using too much custard. Bake until the center is fully set.
Can I freeze the baked casserole?
Yes, once baked and cooled, it freezes well. Wrap tightly, freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw before reheating.
What’s the best way to serve this casserole?
Serve warm with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or fresh fruit for a balanced and beautiful presentation.
Can I add a topping before baking?
Yes, a streusel topping made from butter, flour, sugar, and cinnamon adds extra crunch.
How do I know when it’s done?
The top should be golden and the center set. A knife inserted in the middle should come out clean.
Can I use mini croissants?
Yes, just cut them into halves or quarters. Adjust layering to fill the baking dish evenly.
Conclusion
French toast casserole with croissants is a rich, buttery, and elegant breakfast that’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re prepping for a special occasion or want to elevate your morning routine, this dish delivers a luxurious taste and texture that everyone will love. Make it once, and it’s sure to become a brunch staple.
PrintFrench Toast Casserole with Croissants
French toast casserole with croissants is a rich and buttery breakfast bake made with flaky croissants soaked in sweet vanilla custard and baked until golden. Perfect for brunches, holidays, or cozy mornings at home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 6–8 large croissants (day-old or fresh), torn into large pieces
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Butter (for greasing the baking dish)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for topping)
- Maple syrup or whipped cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Arrange torn croissants evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream (if using), granulated sugar, brown sugar (if using), vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants, gently pressing them down to absorb the liquid.
- Let sit for 15–30 minutes, or cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with syrup or whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- Use day-old croissants for best absorption and texture.
- Make ahead and refrigerate overnight for a stress-free breakfast.
- Customize with fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips.
- Ensure the center is set by checking with a knife—if it comes out clean, it’s done.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 175mg
