Buttery Croissant French Toast (Printable)

Flaky croissants soaked in custard, baked alongside fresh mixed berries for a flavorful brunch option.

# What You'll Need:

→ Croissants

01 - 6 large all-butter croissants, preferably day-old

→ Custard Mixture

02 - 6 large eggs
03 - 2 cups whole milk
04 - 1 cup heavy cream
05 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
06 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
07 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
08 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

→ Berries

09 - 1 1/2 cups mixed fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries)

→ Topping

10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
11 - 2 tablespoons turbinado or demerara sugar

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.
02 - Slice croissants horizontally and arrange half of the croissant pieces as the base layer in the prepared baking dish.
03 - Distribute half of the mixed berries evenly over the croissant layer.
04 - Arrange remaining croissant pieces on top and scatter the remaining berries over them.
05 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until completely smooth.
06 - Slowly pour the custard evenly over the layered croissants and berries, gently pressing to encourage absorption.
07 - Drizzle melted butter over the top surface and sprinkle evenly with turbinado sugar.
08 - Allow the casserole to rest at room temperature for 15 minutes, or cover and refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavor development.
09 - Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes until the top achieves a golden-brown color and the custard is set with a slight jiggle in the center.
10 - Remove from oven and allow to rest for 10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses day-old croissants for a luxurious, budget-friendly base
  • Combines creamy custard with the natural sweetness of fresh berries
  • Perfect make-ahead option for stress-free entertaining
  • Golden, caramelized topping adds delightful crunch
  • Easy enough for beginners, impressive enough for guests
02 -
  • Use high-quality all-butter croissants for the best flavor and texture
  • Don't skip the resting time—it ensures the custard is fully absorbed
  • Check the casserole at 40 minutes; it should be set but still have a slight jiggle in the center
  • Let it rest for 10 minutes after baking to make slicing easier and neater
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently in the oven
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