Overnight Croissant Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Breakfast Recipe

Overnight Croissant Casserole is a delightful dish that transforms the classic buttery croissant into a warm, comforting breakfast that everyone will love. Imagine waking up to the enticing aroma of baked croissants, eggs, and a hint of vanilla wafting through your home. This recipe not only offers a delicious start to your day but also carries a sense of nostalgia, as it is often enjoyed during special family gatherings and holiday brunches. The flaky texture of the croissants combined with the creamy custard creates a perfect harmony of flavors that keeps people coming back for more. Plus, the convenience of preparing it the night before means you can spend more time with your loved ones in the morning. Trust me, once you try this Overnight Croissant Casserole, it will become a cherished staple in your breakfast repertoire!

Ingredients:

• 6 large croissants, preferably day-old
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries)
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
• Powdered sugar, for serving (optional)
• Maple syrup, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Croissants

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown. 2. Take the croissants and slice them in half lengthwise. If you have day-old croissants, they will be easier to cut and will absorb the custard mixture better. If they are fresh, you might want to let them sit out for a bit to dry out slightly. 3. Once sliced, cut each half into bite-sized pieces. I usually aim for about 1-inch pieces, but you can adjust based on your preference. Place the croissant pieces in a large mixing bowl and set them aside.

Making the Custard Mixture

4. In a separate large mixing bowl, crack the 8 large eggs. I like to use a whisk for this step, as it helps to break up the yolks and combine everything smoothly. 5. Add the 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream to the eggs. The combination of milk and cream gives the casserole a rich and creamy texture that is simply irresistible. 6. Next, add in the 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. The cinnamon adds a warm flavor that complements the croissants beautifully. 7. Whisk all the ingredients together until the mixture is well combined and the sugar has dissolved. This should take about 1-2 minutes of vigorous whisking.

Combining Croissants and Custard

8. Pour the custard mixture over the croissant pieces in the bowl. Gently fold the croissants into the custard using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to break the croissants too much; you want to keep some texture. 9. Once all the croissant pieces are coated in the custard, add in the 1 cup of fresh berries and the 1/2 cup of chocolate chips (if using). Gently fold them in as well, ensuring an even distribution throughout the mixture. 10. Transfer the croissant and custard mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. I like to use butter or cooking spray to ensure that nothing sticks. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish, making sure the croissant pieces are well distributed.

Overnight Soaking

11. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. This is the key step! Allow the casserole to soak overnight, or for at least 4 hours. This soaking time allows the croissants to absorb the custard, resulting in a soft and custardy texture.

Baking the Casserole

12. The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you haven’t already done so. Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes while the oven heats up. 13. Once the oven is ready, remove the cover from the baking dish and place it in the oven. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean. 14. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

Serving the Casserole

15. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This will help it set a bit more and make it easier to cut. 16. To serve, cut the casserole into squares and plate them. I love to dust the top with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation. 17. Drizzle with maple syrup if desired, and serve with additional fresh berries on the side. This casserole is perfect for brunch, special occasions, or even a cozy family breakfast.

Storage and Reheating

18. If you have leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place a portion in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or until warmed through. 19. Alternatively, you can reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent it from drying out. 20. Enjoy your delicious Overnight Croissant Casserole! It’s a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to any breakfast table.

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful journey through the Overnight Croissant Casserole recipe, I can’t emphasize enough why this dish is a must-try for your next brunch or family gathering. The combination of buttery croissants, rich custard, and a hint of sweetness creates a breakfast experience that is both indulgent and comforting. Plus, the beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility; you can easily customize it with your favorite fruits, nuts, or even a splash of liqueur for an adult twist. Imagine serving this warm, golden casserole straight from the oven, topped with a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup. You could pair it with fresh berries or a side of crispy bacon for a balanced meal that will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Overnight Croissant Casserole a try. It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings people together around the table. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your own variations and how it turned out for you. Share your thoughts and photos, and let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together! Happy baking! Print

June 19, 2025 by Melissa