Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake

Name: Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 6 large croissants, chopped; 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); 4 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Pinch of salt; Powdered sugar, for dusting; Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Indulge in the delightful combination of buttery croissants and fresh berries with this easy-to-make French toast bake, perfect for any festive occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-29T23:14:55.421Z

This Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake is a showstopper for brunch gatherings and holiday celebrations. With layers of flaky croissants soaked in a rich custard and topped with a medley of vibrant berries, it embodies the spirit of festivity and comfort. Perfectly baked until golden, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Buttery croissants create a light and airy texture
Bursting with fresh berries for a pop of flavor
Easy to prepare ahead of time for stress-free entertaining

      

A Perfect Breakfast for Any Occasion

This Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake is not just a breakfast dish; it’s a celebration on a plate. Whether you're hosting a holiday brunch, a family gathering, or just looking to treat yourself on a lazy Sunday morning, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. The combination of buttery croissants and vibrant berries creates a visually stunning and delicious dish that will impress your guests.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can use whatever berries are in season or even frozen options when fresh ones aren't available. This adaptability makes it easy to enjoy this delightful bake year-round, ensuring that you can always bring a taste of celebration to your table.

Make-Ahead Convenience

One of the standout features of this French toast bake is its make-ahead convenience. You can prepare the croissant and berry mixture the night before, pour the custard over it, and let it soak in the refrigerator overnight. This not only enhances the flavors but also makes it a breeze to pop in the oven the next morning, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free breakfast with minimal effort.

By allowing the mixture to sit, the croissants absorb the custard, resulting in an incredibly tender and rich texture. Your guests will be none the wiser about how easy it was to prepare this delightful dish, and they’ll be asking for seconds!

Customizing Your Bake

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! While mixed berries are a fantastic choice, you can easily substitute them with other fruits like sliced bananas, peaches, or apples. Adding a sprinkle of nuts or a drizzle of maple syrup can also elevate the flavor profile, making it uniquely yours.

Moreover, if you want to add a hint of indulgence, consider incorporating a layer of cream cheese or mascarpone between the croissant layers. This additional richness pairs beautifully with the fresh fruit, making each bite even more decadent.

Ingredients

For the Bake

6 large croissants, chopped
2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
4 large eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt

For Topping

Powdered sugar, for dusting
Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Gather all ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Croissants

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the chopped croissants and mixed berries. Toss gently to mix.

Make the Custard Mixture

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Combine and Bake

Pour the custard mixture over the croissant and berry mixture, ensuring everything is well soaked. Let it sit for 10 minutes. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.

Serve

Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and garnishing with fresh mint leaves. Serve warm and enjoy!

This dish can be prepared the night before; just refrigerate after assembling and bake in the morning!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake, consider pairing it with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a well-rounded meal. A light fruit salad can also complement the dish beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the bake.

For beverages, a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing mimosa can elevate your brunch experience. The sweet and fruity notes of the bake pair wonderfully with the crispness of sparkling wine, making it a delightful addition to any festive table.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until heated through. This makes it a convenient option for busy mornings or quick snacks.

For longer storage, consider freezing the baked dish. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. This way, you can enjoy a slice of festive delight any time you crave it, just by reheating from frozen.

Nutritional Highlights

This delightful bake not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients. The mixed berries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to your breakfast. Croissants, while indulgent, deliver a comforting dose of carbohydrates that can fuel your morning.

Additionally, using eggs and milk contributes protein and calcium to the dish, making it a balanced option when enjoyed in moderation. Pairing this bake with fresh fruit or a side salad can enhance its nutritional value, ensuring you start your day on the right foot.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen berries?

Yes, frozen berries work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute regular croissants with gluten-free croissants to make this dish gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare this the night before?

Yes, you can assemble the dish the night before and bake it in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.