Easy Croissant French Toast Bake

Name: Easy Croissant French Toast Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 6 large eggs; 1 ½ cups whole milk; 2 tablespoons maple syrup (plus more for serving); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 8 large croissants (roughly torn); ⅓ cup jam (such as blueberry, strawberry, or blackberry); 8 ounces whipped cream cheese (room temperature); 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (thinly sliced); 1 cup berries (divided (use blueberries, strawberries, or blackberries)); 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (or more for serving)

This Croissant French Toast Bake transforms a classic breakfast into an unbelievably indulgent treat! Tender chunks of croissant are combined with whipped cream cheese, blueberries, and sweet custard before being baked to golden-brown perfection. Serve it as a decadent start to your day or a crowd-pleasing brunch option!

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Why This Recipe Works

I love French toast. In fact, I make oven baked French toast almost weekly! But this croissant French toast bake takes the flavors and textures to new heights.

Buttery croissant pieces are soaked in homemade custard before being combined with jam-infused cream cheese and berries. Once baked, its slightly crisp top gives way to a soft, creamy center bursting with the sweetness of berries and maple syrup.

Croissant French toast bake with berries.

Preparing this dish is also a breeze. It takes only 10 minutes to assemble, making it a fantastic choice for impromptu meals and gatherings with friends and family!

Ingredients

Eggs: The foundation of the custard, eggs add structure and richness, absorbing into the croissants for that perfect, tender bite. Use large eggs for the best results.
Whole Milk: Forms the other part of the custard, giving this croissant French toast bake a luxuriously rich and creamy consistency.
Maple Syrup: Adds a natural sweetness that perfectly complements the vanilla and berries. I recommend 100% pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup.
Vanilla: Infuses the bake with a sweet, warming aroma. Use pure vanilla extract here!
Croissants: The star of the show! These buttery pastries soak up the custard for a soft yet slightly crisp texture. You can use store-bought or homemade croissants.
Jam: Provides sweet, tangy notes that cut through the dish’s richness. Use your favorite types, like blueberry, strawberry, or blackberry.
Whipped Cream Cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy element that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the jam. You can use store-bought or make your own.
Butter: Gives the top of the bake a golden, buttery crust. Use unsalted butter for better control over the salt level of the dish.
Berries: Fresh berries add a burst of sweetness and slight acidity. Use options like blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries.
Powdered Sugar: A light dusting adds a sweet finish and a gorgeous presentation.

Croissants, cream cheese, and berries in a pan.

Instructions

Mix the Custard: Grease a 9×13 baking dish with butter. In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Layer the Croissants: Arrange torn croissant pieces in the prepared baking dish and gently pour the egg mixture over them, ensuring they’re evenly covered.
Add Cream Cheese & Berries: In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese with the jam. Dollop this mixture between the croissants, along with half the berries.
Chill the Dish: Let the assembled dish rest covered in the fridge for 15 minutes, or leave it overnight to soak up the flavors.
Bake: When you’re ready to bake, place butter slices on top and cover the dish with foil. Bake it in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 40 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes for a golden finish.
Serve: For the ultimate breakfast or brunch, serve your croissant French toast bake with a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, and a drizzle of extra maple syrup.

Substitutions & Variations

Milk: To accommodate different dietary needs or preferences, you can use full-fat canned coconut milk instead of whole milk.
Maple Syrup: Try an equal amount of honey or agave nectar in place of maple syrup.
Croissants: Day-old brioche or challah both emulate croissants quite well.
Fruit: Feel free to swap out or mix the berries and jam flavors based on seasonal availability or personal taste. Peaches or apricots are perfect for a summery twist!
Cream Cheese: If you don’t have whipped cream cheese, try ricotta or mascarpone.
Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for an extra crunch.

Syrup pouring over French toast casserole.

Storing & Reheating

For any leftover croissant French toast bake, follow these simple storage and reheating tips:

Fridge: Store leftovers covered in the dish or an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze your French toast in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Be sure to wrap it tightly in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Gently reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, covered with foil, until warmed. Avoid microwaving this dish if you can since it will make the texture a little soggy.

Expert Tips

Custard: Use full-fat milk or a combination of milk and cream for the richest custard.
Berry Freshness: If you’re using fresh berries, make sure they’re not overly ripe to prevent them from disintegrating into the bake.
Cream Cheese Softness: Let the cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing it for easier mixing and smoother incorporation into the bake.
Baking Dish Buttering: Generously butter your baking dish to add flavor and prevent sticking, enhancing the dish’s richness.
Final Baking Uncovered: Finish baking the dish uncovered for the last 5-10 minutes to achieve a perfectly golden-brown top without drying out the interior.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, you can use low-fat milk, but it’s worth noting that whole milk will lend a richer flavor and a creamier texture.

Can frozen berries be used in place of fresh ones?

Absolutely! Frozen berries can be a great substitute for fresh ones. Just remember to add them to your dish while they’re still frozen to prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture.

How can I prevent the bake from becoming soggy?

To avoid a soggy croissant French toast bake, opt for day-old croissants as they absorb liquid better without becoming too mushy.

Fork picking up croissant French toast bake.

If you enjoyed this croissant French toast bake recipe, check out some more of my favorite breakfast and brunch staples like these:

If you try this Croissant French Toast Bake, let me know what you think! Rate and review this recipe in the comments below. Don’t forget to take a picture and tag me on Instagram @lenaskitchenblog!