Sweet Breakfast Casserole

Introduction

This Sweet Breakfast Casserole is a decadent, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like dessert for breakfast. You’ll love the soft, custard-soaked croissants paired with bursts of juicy berries in every bite. It’s the perfect make-ahead recipe for a stress-free, impressive brunch or holiday morning.

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 6 large croissants (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 6 large eggs
• 1 1/4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons orange zest
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 3 cups berries ((blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, sliced strawberries, or a combination))
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar (plus additional for dusting (optional))
• 2 1/2 tablespoons whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with the 2 tablespoons of room-temperature butter.
2. Spread the 1-inch croissant pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish. Scatter the 3 cups of berries evenly over the croissant pieces.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the 6 large eggs, 1 1/4 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons orange zest, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt until well combined and smooth.
4. Slowly pour the egg custard mixture evenly over the croissants and berries. Gently press down on any croissant pieces to ensure they are submerged. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
5. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats, about 20-30 minutes.
6. Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, the custard is set, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
7. While the casserole cools, make the vanilla glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the 3/4 cup powdered sugar, 2 1/2 tablespoons whole milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
8. Drizzle the glaze over the slightly cooled casserole. For extra sweetness, dust lightly with additional powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm.

Variations

• Bread Pudding Style: Serve portions in bowls and drizzle with extra glaze or a simple caramel sauce at the table for a more decadent, dessert-like presentation.
• Fruit Swap: Instead of mixing berries into the custard, arrange them in a decorative pattern on top of the soaked croissants just before baking for a beautiful, fruit-topped finish.
• Individual Servings: Prepare the casserole in a greased muffin tin for easy, single-serving portions; reduce the baking time to 25-30 minutes.
• Citrus Twist: Replace the orange zest in the custard with an equal amount of lemon zest for a brighter, tangier flavor profile.

Tips for Success

• Use day-old or slightly stale croissants for the best texture, as they will absorb the custard more effectively without becoming too mushy.
• Ensure the casserole rests at room temperature before baking. This helps it cook more evenly and prevents the center from being too cold and remaining undercooked.
• Test for doneness by checking that the center is puffed and no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan, rather than relying solely on time.
• For a cleaner cut when serving, use a sharp serrated knife and wipe it clean between slices.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover casserole, covered tightly in the refrigerator, for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 60-90 seconds, or cover the whole dish with foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

FAQ

Can I make this entirely the night before?

Absolutely. Complete the recipe through step 4, covering and refrigerating it overnight. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats, then bake as directed.

Can I use other types of bread?

This recipe is specifically designed for croissants, which provide a rich, buttery flavor and flaky texture. Using plain bread will significantly alter the intended result.

My casserole is still wet in the middle after 45 minutes. What should I do?

Cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent over-browning and continue baking in 5-minute increments until the center is set. An oven that runs cool or a very cold starting temperature can extend the baking time.

Can I use frozen berries?

Why is the orange zest important?

The orange zest adds a subtle, bright citrus note that cuts through the richness of the custard and complements the sweetness of the berries and glaze. It elevates the overall flavor profile significantly.

Do I have to make the glaze?

No, the glaze is optional. The casserole is delicious and sweet enough on its own from the sugar and fruit, but the glaze adds a lovely finishing touch and extra sweetness.