If you’re craving a breakfast that feels upscale but comes together effortlessly, this Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake is the perfect choice. With its buttery layers of croissants soaked in sweet custard and bursts of juicy blueberries, this dish is a delightful mix of French toast and bread pudding.
Ideal for weekend mornings, holiday brunches, or feeding guests, this recipe is easy to make and even easier to love. Best of all, you can prepare it the night before or make it fresh in under an hour.
Whether you’re already a fan of custard-style dishes like Charisse McGill French Toast Bites or you’re just looking to upgrade your breakfast routine, this one’s a keeper.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- Simple and Fast: Make it in under an hour or prep the night before.
- Flexible: Swap fruits or adjust flavors easily.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Great for serving a group.
- Family-Friendly: Soft, sweet, and appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
To make this breakfast bake, you’ll need:
- 6–8 day-old croissants
- 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 5 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Zest of one lemon
- Toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, or whipped cream
For a fun variation or to use up extra lemons, check out this easy Lemon Cookies from Cake Mix.
Instructions
1. Prep the Croissants
Cut croissants into large pieces. Place half in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Add Blueberries
Sprinkle half of the blueberries over the croissants, then layer the remaining croissants and top with the rest of the berries.
3. Make the Custard
Whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and lemon zest. Pour evenly over the croissants and blueberries. Gently press the layers down so the croissants soak up the custard.
4. Bake or Refrigerate Overnight
If baking immediately, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes.
To make ahead, cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed the next morning.
Looking for something savory to pair it with? Try these Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos.
Variations
- Add a Crunch: Top with chopped pecans or granola before baking.
- Use Different Fruits: Try raspberries, peaches, or apples. Explore ideas in our Soup and Salad collection.
- Go Richer: Add cream cheese or white chocolate chips between croissant layers.
- Boozy Brunch Option: Mix in orange liqueur or spiced rum.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread alternatives.
Healthier Options
If you’re looking for a lighter version, here are a few easy swaps:
- Use almond or low-fat milk
- Cut the sugar in half or use a sugar alternative like monk fruit
- Add flax or chia seeds for fiber
- Use whole-grain options such as Dave’s Killer Bread
Serving Suggestions
Pair your breakfast bake with:
- Greek yogurt and honey
- A glass of fresh Organic Apple Juice
- Something sweet like Buttermilk Pancakes
For a more decadent breakfast spread, serve with dessert-style treats like Strawberry Danish or Hot Fudge Brownie Bread.
Storage and Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the full dish in a 325°F oven for 10–15 minutes.
- Freeze baked portions for up to one month. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake
Can I use frozen blueberries in a Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake?
Yes, frozen blueberries are a perfect option for a Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake. For best results, do not thaw the blueberries before using them. Thawed berries tend to release excess moisture, which can make your dish soggy. By adding them frozen, they maintain their structure and burst beautifully during baking, enhancing both flavor and texture.
What can I use instead of croissants in this Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake?
While buttery croissants are the classic base, you can still make a delicious Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake with substitutes like brioche, challah, or sourdough bread. Brioche and challah offer a similar richness and slight sweetness, while sourdough adds structure and a hint of tang. Just be sure to use day-old bread to ensure it absorbs the custard properly without turning mushy.
How do I make this Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake dairy-free?
To create a dairy-free Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake, simply swap out the milk and cream for plant-based alternatives. Almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, or full-fat coconut milk all work well. For a richer result, try using a non-dairy creamer or barista blend. These alternatives keep the texture creamy and satisfying while catering to lactose-free or vegan diets.
Do I need to cover the Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake while baking?
Most of the time, you won’t need to cover your Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake. Baking it uncovered helps the top develop a golden, crisp texture. However, if the top starts browning before the custard is fully set, you can loosely tent the dish with foil for the remaining baking time. This prevents burning while allowing the custard to finish cooking evenly.
How do I know when a Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake is fully cooked?
A Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake is done when the custard is set in the center and no longer jiggly. Insert a knife or toothpick into the middle of the bake—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden and slightly puffed, and the edges should be firm. For best results, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors and custard to settle properly.
Conclusion
This Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake is more than just a weekend indulgence—it’s a versatile, heartwarming dish that turns simple ingredients into something special. Whether served fresh or prepared as an overnight bake, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite at your table.
Craving more breakfast inspiration? Check out these recipes:
For baking techniques and more creative ideas, explore your options with seasonal ingredients or discover new favorites on the Recipes Rania homepage.