Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake

Name: Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 large croissants, torn into pieces; 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); 4 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Powdered sugar, for serving

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

This Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake is the perfect dish for holiday brunches or cozy family gatherings. It combines flaky croissants with luscious berries and a creamy custard for a delightful treat.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-30T20:45:15.737Z

This dish is inspired by holiday cheer and the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones. The combination of berries and croissants is not only visually stunning but also incredibly satisfying.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent layers of buttery croissants soaked in a creamy custard
Bursting with fresh berries for a vibrant flavor
Perfect for holiday mornings or special occasions

      

A Holiday Brunch Favorite

There's something magical about gathering friends and family around the table for a festive brunch. This Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake brings together the flavors of the season with its delightful combination of buttery croissants and juicy berries. Perfectly suited for lazy weekend mornings or special holiday occasions, this dish is sure to impress your guests while allowing you to enjoy quality time together.

Imagine the warm aroma of baked croissants wafting through your home, mingling with the sweet scent of fresh berries. This dish not only looks stunning when served but also delivers a deliciously satisfying combination of textures and flavors. The flaky croissants provide a rich base, while the creamy custard holds everything together, creating a breakfast experience that feels indulgent yet effortlessly easy to prepare.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best things about this croissant French toast bake is its versatility. While mixed berries add a pop of color and flavor, feel free to swap in your favorite fruits based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Peaches, cherries, or even apples can work beautifully, allowing you to create a dish that suits your taste preferences and the seasonal fruit availability.

Additionally, you can experiment with various flavor profiles. Consider adding a splash of orange juice or lemon zest to the custard for a citrusy twist, or incorporate spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a warm, cozy vibe. This recipe is a canvas for your creativity, and each variation can turn it into a new family favorite.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake even further, consider serving it with a side of maple syrup, whipped cream, or a dollop of yogurt. These additions enhance the dish's richness while providing contrasting flavors and textures. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a beautiful finishing touch, making it visually appealing and perfect for holiday celebrations.

Pair your bake with hot coffee or tea for a cozy brunch experience, or serve it alongside a refreshing fruit salad for a balanced meal. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering, a special celebration, or just a treat for your family, this recipe is designed to make your brunch unforgettable.

Ingredients

For the Croissant Bake

4 large croissants, torn into pieces
2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
4 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Powdered sugar, for serving

Enjoy this delightful dish warm with a dusting of powdered sugar!

Instructions

Prepare the Croissant Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
Layer the torn croissant pieces in a greased baking dish and scatter the mixed berries on top.
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants and berries, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
Allow the mixture to sit for 15 minutes to absorb.

Bake the Dish

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Let it cool slightly before serving.

Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Tips for Success

To ensure your French toast bake is perfectly cooked, be mindful of your oven's temperature, as baking times can vary. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time. The top should be golden brown, and the custard should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center. This will prevent the dish from becoming too dry.

If you're preparing this dish in advance, you can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. This makes it an excellent choice for busy mornings when you want to impress without the morning rush.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or place them back in the oven to warm through. Cover with foil to retain moisture and prevent drying out during reheating.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the baked dish. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. You can then thaw and reheat as needed, making this dish a convenient option for busy mornings or unexpected guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen berries?

Yes, frozen berries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding them to the bake.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it the night before and refrigerate overnight. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I substitute for croissants?

You can use brioche or challah bread as alternatives for a similar texture.