If you’re searching for a show-stopping breakfast or brunch dish that feels both luxurious and effortless, look no further than this Berry Croissant Bake. Dreamy layers of buttery croissants, plump mixed berries, and a luscious custard come together to create a bake that’s tender, golden, and a little bit magic. Every bite is vibrant and comforting, making it as perfect for a special gathering as it is for cozy weekend mornings. Plus, with minimal prep and everyday ingredients, it’s destined to become your new go-to—trust me!
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Croissant Bake:
- 5–6 small croissants (preferably day-old)
- 1½ cups mixed fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Custard Mixture:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- Powdered sugar (for serving)
How to Make Berry Croissant Bake
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. A quick swipe with butter or spray makes serving and cleanup so much easier—plus, it helps get those irresistible golden edges.
Step 2: Layer the Croissants
Tear your croissants into large, rustic chunks and scatter them evenly in the baking dish. No need for perfect pieces—those jagged edges get crispy while the insides stay soft, giving you that perfect bite every time.
Step 3: Add the Berries
Gently sprinkle your mixed fresh berries over the croissants. As the Berry Croissant Bake cooks, the berries release juice that seeps into the bread, creating fruity pockets of goodness throughout.
Step 4: Whisk Up the Custard
In a mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using). This silky mixture infuses the entire bake with rich, aromatic custard flavor that pairs so well with croissants and berries.
Step 5: Assemble and Soak
Pour the custard evenly over the croissants and berries, making sure to coat every nook and cranny. Press gently with a spatula to help the croissants absorb the liquid, then let the whole dish sit for about 10 minutes to soak up all the flavor.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the custard is just set and the top is beautifully golden brown. The smell at this point will make your kitchen the best place to be!
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Allow your Berry Croissant Bake to cool for several minutes before dusting it generously with powdered sugar. Serve it warm for extra comfort, and get ready for everyone to swoon.
How to Serve Berry Croissant Bake
Garnishes
This bake is already a star, but a few finishing touches can make it even more irresistible. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a snowy finish or add a dollop of vanilla whipped cream. A drizzle of real maple syrup or a scoop of vanilla Greek yogurt takes it over the top—your brunch game will never be the same!
Side Dishes
Berry Croissant Bake pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad, crisp bacon, or even a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for balance. If you want to turn breakfast into a feast, try serving it alongside smoked salmon platters or roasted breakfast potatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
For extra charm, try baking individual portions in ramekins for a personalized touch at brunch parties. You can also serve each slice with extra berries on the side, or dress it up with edible flowers for a celebration-worthy look. Leftovers make an adorable lunchbox or picnic treat, too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Berry Croissant Bake (lucky you!), cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. It maintains its creamy texture and the flavors develop even more overnight.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this bake! Once cooled completely, wrap portions or the whole dish well in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, simply cover and warm in a 325°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions until heated through. A quick dusting of powdered sugar after reheating makes it feel freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use frozen berries in Berry Croissant Bake?
Yes! Frozen berries are a great option and you don’t even need to thaw them before adding. They’ll bake up juicy and delicious, though they may release a bit more liquid—just keep an eye on the bake in the last few minutes.
What if I only have large croissants?
Larger croissants work just as well; you’ll probably only need 3 to 4. Tear them up as you would small ones and ensure the layer fills the baking dish evenly.
Can I make Berry Croissant Bake the night before?
Absolutely. Assemble everything, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let the dish sit out while you preheat the oven in the morning, then bake as directed for a fuss-free breakfast.
Is the lemon zest necessary?
Lemon zest is optional but highly recommended. It adds a lovely brightness that really makes the berry flavors pop, but the bake is still delicious without it if you prefer.
Can I substitute the cream with more milk?
You can, but keep in mind that heavy cream lends a rich, velvety texture. If you skip it and use just milk, the bake will be a little lighter but still tasty and comforting.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a brunch treat that feels effortless but tastes special, you absolutely have to try this Berry Croissant Bake. Warm, golden, and bursting with berries, it’s a dish you’ll end up craving again and again. Whip it up for your next gathering—or just a lazy weekend—and see how quickly it disappears!
Print
Berry Croissant Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Berry Croissant Bake is a delightful breakfast or brunch dish that combines flaky croissants, fresh mixed berries, and a rich custard. It’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy morning at home.
Ingredients
Croissant Bake:
- 5–6 small croissants (preferably day-old)
- 1½ cups mixed fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Custard Mixture:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- Powdered sugar (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the croissants and berries: Tear the croissants into large chunks and place them evenly in the baking dish. Sprinkle the mixed berries over the croissants.
- Make the custard mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest if using. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants and berries, pressing gently to ensure the croissants absorb the liquid. Let sit for 10 minutes to soak.
- Bake the croissant bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. Let cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm.
Notes
- This dish can be assembled the night before and refrigerated, then baked in the morning.
- Frozen berries can be used—no need to thaw.
- Delicious with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg
