French Toast Casserole With Croissants
This indulgent French Toast Croissant Casserole features layers of buttery croissants soaked in a spiced custard, baked to golden perfection. It’s an excellent choice for holiday mornings or weekend brunches, offering a sweet and satisfying start to your day.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 large croissants, preferably day-old, cut into halves or large chunks
- 6 large eggs
- 1½ cups half-and-half or whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Fresh berries, for serving
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Custard:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Arrange the croissant halves or chunks in the baking dish.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Gently press down on the croissants to help them absorb the custard.
- Add Toppings:
- Sprinkle the brown sugar and chopped pecans (if using) over the top of the casserole.
- Soak:
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the croissants to fully absorb the custard.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Bake, uncovered, for 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve with fresh berries and warm maple syrup.
Notes
- Using day-old croissants helps them absorb the custard better without becoming too soggy.
- For a slightly boozy flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of bourbon or Grand Marnier to the custard mixture.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning, making it convenient for entertaining.