Description
A decadent breakfast casserole featuring buttery croissants baked in a sweet, spiced custard, perfect for brunch or a special morning treat.
Ingredients
6-8 large croissants (preferably day-old, cut into bite-sized pieces)
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Zest of 1 orange (optional)
A pinch of salt
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup cold butter (cubed)
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Place the cut croissant pieces evenly in the greased baking dish, ensuring they are well distributed.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, orange zest (if using), and a pinch of salt until well combined.
Step 3: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant pieces, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Gently press down with a spatula to submerge any dry pieces.
Step 4: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cubed cold butter, and chopped nuts (if using) until crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Step 6: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set in the center.
Step 7: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, and serve warm with maple syrup or fresh fruit on the side.
Notes
For best results, use day-old croissants to ensure they absorb the custard well. If you only have fresh croissants, lightly toast them in the oven for 10 minutes before cutting. This casserole can be assembled the night before for an easy morning bake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 200mg