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This French toast croissant casserole turns everyday breakfast into something truly special The flaky buttery croissants soak up a rich custard and bake to crisp golden edges with a soft center It is my go to for holiday mornings or lazy weekends when I want everyone to feel spoiled at the table
I made this the first time for a snowy New Years brunch and now my nephew requests it for every family sleepover He calls it buttery bread pudding and always asks for extra berries on top
Ingredients
- Large croissants: give the casserole its flaky tender texture day old or slightly stale is best so they soak up more custard
- Eggs: create the creamy custard base make sure they are fresh and at room temperature for best blending
- Whole milk: adds richness and helps the custard set use good quality milk for best results
- Heavy cream: gives extra decadence and softness to the bake choose real cream with no additives
- Granulated sugar: brings pure sweetness while brown sugar adds a hint of caramel both balance the flavors
- Vanilla extract: adds warm aromatic depth go for pure vanilla for richer flavor
- Ground cinnamon: lifts everything with cozy spice use freshly ground for extra punch
- Ground nutmeg: optional for extra warmth and classic French toast flavor
- Salt: makes the flavors pop just a pinch rounds it all out
- Powdered sugar, maple syrup, and fresh berries: are my favorite toppings buy seasonal berries when you can and the real maple syrup for something special
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish:
- Grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish well then tear the croissants into chunky bite sized pieces and spread them evenly across the dish making sure none are packed too tight for balanced texture
- Whisk the custard:
- In a large mixing bowl beat together the eggs whole milk heavy cream granulated sugar brown sugar vanilla extract ground cinnamon ground nutmeg if using and salt whisk until completely smooth and the sugar starts to dissolve so the custard bakes up silky
- Soak the croissants:
- Pour the custard mixture evenly all over the croissant pieces Press gently with clean hands or the back of a spoon to make sure every piece gets soaked Lightly cover with plastic wrap and let chill in the fridge for at least two hours or overnight for deeper flavor and easier morning baking
- Bake the casserole:
- About ten minutes before baking take the dish out of the refrigerator so it can take off the chill Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit Bake the casserole uncovered for thirty five to forty minutes until the top turns golden brown and the custard looks just set but still jiggles a bit when you move the dish
- Cool and serve:
- Let it cool for about ten minutes so the casserole sets before slicing Serve warm with generous dustings of powdered sugar a drizzle of maple syrup or mounds of fresh berries for a burst of color and tartness
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My favorite part is always the corners where the croissants crisp up I remember my grandma sneaking these pieces before anyone else noticed It always reminds me to bake an extra dish each time for those crunchy edges
Storage Tips
Keep any leftovers covered and refrigerated for up to three days If you want a crispy top again reheat the slices uncovered in a low oven until warmed through It freezes well too just wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge before baking to reheat
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the croissants for good quality brioche or challah bread in a pinch If you want to lighten up the dish use half and half instead of all heavy cream Swap spices for cardamom or allspice if you love cozy new flavors or toss in a handful of chocolate chips or walnuts before baking for extra layers
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Serving Suggestions
Serve with mimosas hot coffee and savory items like sausage or crispy bacon It makes a beautiful centerpiece for Easter Mother’s Day or any brunch gathering Try cutting it into small squares to serve as part of a breakfast buffet with fruit and yogurt
Cultural Context
French toast has been a classic comfort food for generations and using croissants brings a nod to French pastry traditions This version feels luxurious without the fuss of individual dipping and frying making it more American in its laid back approach to indulgence
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare the sandwich ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for best flavor and texture.
- → What can I use instead of Havarti cheese?
Swiss, mozzarella, or provolone are good substitutes for Havarti if you prefer a different flavor profile.
- → Is there a vegetarian option?
Omit the turkey and add extra cheese or sautéed vegetables to create a hearty meatless version.
- → How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.
- → Can I add extra toppings?
Absolutely! Try fresh herbs, spinach, or even cranberry sauce for extra flavor and color.