Croissant French Toast Casserole – Easy Brunch Bake

Looking for the ultimate make-ahead brunch dish that combines flaky croissants, creamy custard, and sweet cinnamon flavor? This Croissant French Toast Casserole is everything you love about classic French toast—but baked in one dish for a crowd-pleasing twist. Buttery croissants soak up a rich, vanilla-scented custard overnight and bake into a soft, custardy center with golden, caramelized tops.

Perfect for holidays, lazy weekends, or anytime you want a decadent yet easy breakfast, this casserole is sure to become a brunch favorite in your home.

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What Is Croissant French Toast Casserole?

Croissant French Toast Casserole is a baked breakfast dish made by layering torn or sliced croissants in a baking dish and soaking them in a mixture of eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and spices. Unlike traditional stovetop French toast, this version is baked and can be prepared ahead of time—making it ideal for brunch parties or holidays like Christmas and Easter.

The croissants give it a unique texture and flavor:

• Crispy and golden on top

• Custardy and soft inside

• Flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg

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Ingredients Overview

Here’s a look at what goes into this indulgent breakfast casserole and why each ingredient matters:

Croissants

Use day-old or slightly stale croissants so they soak up more custard without falling apart.

• 6–8 large butter croissants, torn or sliced

• Store-bought or homemade work great

• Avoid overly soft or fresh ones—they’ll get soggy

Eggs

You’ll need 5–6 large eggs to create a rich custard that binds everything together.

• Eggs give structure and help the dish set while baking

• Make sure to whisk thoroughly for a smooth texture

Milk and Cream

Use a combination of:

• Whole milk for balance

• Heavy cream for richness and a custardy interior

• You can also use half-and-half

Sugar

Adds sweetness to the custard base.

• Granulated sugar for the custard

• Brown sugar or maple syrup can be added for depth

Vanilla Extract

Brings warmth and rounds out the flavor of the custard. Use pure vanilla if possible.

Cinnamon and Nutmeg

Classic spices for French toast. Cinnamon adds sweetness, while nutmeg adds a subtle spice note.

Butter

Melted butter greases the baking dish and adds flavor to the top.

• Optional: dot the top with butter before baking for a golden finish

Optional Toppings

• Fresh berries

• Maple syrup

• Powdered sugar

• Whipped cream or yogurt

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Croissants

• Tear or slice 6–8 large croissants into chunks

• Arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish

• Pack them loosely—don’t flatten them down

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

• 6 large eggs

• 1 ½ cups whole milk

• ¾ cup heavy cream

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

• ¼ tsp salt

Whisk until completely smooth.

Step 3: Pour and Soak

• Slowly pour the custard evenly over the croissants in the dish

• Gently press the croissants down to help them soak up the mixture

• Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight

This step ensures the croissants absorb the custard fully.

Step 4: Bake

When ready to bake:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C)

• Let the casserole sit at room temp for 15 minutes while the oven heats

• Dot the top with small cubes of butter (optional)

• Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the custard is set in the center

For extra crispy top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—watch closely.

Step 5: Serve

Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Top with:

• Powdered sugar

• Maple syrup

• Berries or fruit compote

• Whipped cream

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Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

Expert Tips

• Use slightly stale croissants—they hold their shape better

• Soak overnight for the best flavor and texture

• Don’t overbake or the custard can dry out—look for a slight jiggle in the center

Flavor Variations

• Berry Croissant Casserole: Add a layer of blueberries or raspberries before baking

• Chocolate Chip: Sprinkle chocolate chips between layers for a dessert-style version

• Apple Cinnamon: Add thinly sliced apples and extra cinnamon

• Savory Twist: Skip sugar and add cheese, herbs, and cooked sausage or ham

Substitutions

• Milk alternatives: Use oat, almond, or coconut milk

• Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk and cream + dairy-free butter

• Low sugar: Use coconut sugar or reduce sugar by ¼ cup

• Gluten-free: Use GF croissants or swap with GF brioche-style rolls

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

This casserole shines at:

• Weekend brunches with friends or family

• Holiday breakfasts like Christmas morning or Easter

• Mother’s Day or birthday breakfasts

• Meal prep—leftovers reheat well for weekday mornings

Pair it with:

• Fruit salad

• Breakfast sausage or bacon

• Coffee or mimosas

• Greek yogurt for a lighter touch

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Nutritional & Health Notes

This is an indulgent treat, but it offers:

• Protein from eggs

• Calcium from milk and cream

• Customizable sugar and fat levels

To lighten the recipe:

• Use half the cream and more milk

• Reduce sugar

• Use light croissants or fewer pastries

Estimated per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 350–450

• Protein: 9–12g

• Fat: 20–25g

• Carbs: 30–35g

• Fiber: 1g

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is ideal for prepping the night before. Let it soak overnight and bake in the morning for an effortless brunch dish.

2. What if I don’t have croissants?

You can substitute brioche, challah, French bread, or Hawaiian rolls. Just make sure it’s a bit stale so it doesn’t get soggy.

3. Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes. Bake the casserole first, let it cool, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven covered with foil.

4. How long should I soak the croissants?

Minimum 4 hours, but overnight soaking (8–12 hours) gives the best flavor and custard absorption.

5. Can I make it less sweet?

Absolutely. Reduce the sugar in the custard by ¼ cup or use maple syrup for natural sweetness.

6. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very! Kids love the sweet, custardy texture and flaky croissant pieces—especially when topped with syrup or fruit.

7. How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave (add a splash of milk to keep moist).

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