French Toast Croissant Bake

Name: French Toast Croissant Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 large croissants, cut into chunks; 4 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; Pinch of salt; Powdered sugar for serving; Fresh berries for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Recipes

I love making this French Toast Croissant Bake for brunch, especially on lazy Sunday mornings. The buttery croissants soaked in a rich custard mixture create a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Each bite is a heavenly combination of crispy edges and soft, custardy centers that leave everyone wanting more. I find that the addition of vanilla and a hint of cinnamon elevates this dish, making it feel indulgent yet simple to prepare. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:10:27.875Z

When I first created this recipe, I wanted to combine the classic French toast experience with the airy texture of croissants. I spent time experimenting with soaking times, and I found that allowing the croissants to absorb the custard for a short period creates a wonderful balance between crispy and tender. The croissants puff up beautifully in the oven, and the end result is something truly special.

One tip I’ve learned along the way is to sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top right before serving; it adds a lovely presentation and a touch of sweetness. If you like, add some fresh berries or maple syrup for extra flavor. This dish makes for a fantastic brunch centerpiece!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Buttery croissants create a luxurious base.
A delightful blend of rich custard and crispy edges.
Perfect for brunch gatherings and special occasions.

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a successful French Toast Croissant Bake lies in the selection of ingredients, particularly the croissants and the custard base. Using fresh, high-quality buttery croissants is crucial, as they not only provide a rich flavor but also absorb the custard beautifully without becoming overly soggy. If you find day-old croissants, they work perfectly and will yield a slightly firmer texture, which can be delightful in this bake.

The custard mixture made from eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream serves to create a creamy and rich base that envelops the croissant pieces. The fat from the heavy cream enhances the overall texture, creating a luxurious mouthfeel. Pay attention to the balance of milk and cream; using too much milk can lead to a watery result, while a higher cream content yields a decadent bake. Adjust according to your preference!

Baking Tips for the Perfect Texture

Achieving the ideal texture in your French Toast Croissant Bake requires careful attention during both the preparation and baking phases. When you coat the croissant chunks in the custard, ensure that each piece is thoroughly immersed. This allows the custard to penetrate and soften the croissants while still maintaining some structure. The baking time, typically around 30 minutes, can vary based on your oven; keep an eye on the top to ensure it turns golden brown and the edges crisp up deliciously.

Another tip is to let the bake cool slightly before serving. This resting period allows the custard to set further, improving the sliceability and preventing it from collapsing when served. If your bake isn’t browning as expected, you can place it under the broiler for a minute or two at the end, but watch closely to avoid burning.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

4 large croissants, cut into chunks
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Powdered sugar for serving
Fresh berries for serving (optional)

Enjoy your delicious creation!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your French Toast Croissant Bake:

Prepare the Croissants

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth. Add the croissant chunks to the mixture and gently fold to coat all pieces.

Bake

Transfer the coated croissants into a greased baking dish, ensuring they are distributed evenly. Pour any remaining custard mixture over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Serve

Let the French Toast Croissant Bake cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with fresh berries and maple syrup, if desired.

Enjoy your delightful dish!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, you can include chocolate chips or nuts in the custard mixture before baking.

Serving Suggestions

While serving the French Toast Croissant Bake, consider complementing it with a variety of toppings to enhance the experience. A light dusting of powdered sugar not only adds visual appeal but also offers a hint of sweetness that balances the buttery flavor. Fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries can add a refreshing tartness, making each bite feel even more indulgent.

For a truly decadent treat, drizzle warm maple syrup over the top just before serving. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elevated dessert experience. This dish pairs especially well with a warm cup of coffee or a mimosa on a leisurely brunch table.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to make this recipe even more convenient, you can prepare it in advance. Once you have coated the croissant chunks, place them in the greased baking dish and cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight, allowing the croissants to soak up the custard for a richer flavor. Just be sure to let the dish come to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before popping it in the oven to ensure even cooking.

Alternatively, you can bake it right away and freeze any leftovers. To freeze, let the bake cool completely before cutting it into slices. Store slices in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat individual portions in the microwave or thaw in the fridge overnight before baking in the oven until warmed through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture the night before and refrigerate it. Just pop it in the oven in the morning for a fresh breakfast.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can replace heavy cream with additional whole milk or a non-dairy alternative, like almond milk, for a lighter version.

→ Can I use day-old croissants?

Absolutely! Day-old croissants work perfectly as they will soak up the custard better without becoming too soggy.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover French Toast Croissant Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat in the oven.