Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake

Name: Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 6 large croissants, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); 4 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Powdered sugar, for dusting; Maple syrup, for serving

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

A delightful and indulgent breakfast or brunch dish, this Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake combines flaky croissants with a rich custard and a medley of fresh berries, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-30T20:40:16.125Z

This Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake is an elegant twist on a classic breakfast dish, combining buttery croissants with sweet, juicy berries. Perfect for special occasions, it can be prepared the night before and baked fresh in the morning, making it a hassle-free option for brunch with family and friends.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and buttery croissants soaked in a creamy custard
Bursting with fresh berries for a sweet and tart flavor
Perfect for holiday breakfasts or brunch gatherings
Easily prepared in advance for convenience

      

The Perfect Holiday Dish

The Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake is more than just a breakfast; it's an experience that brings warmth and joy to holiday gatherings. Imagine a golden, flaky croissant drenched in a creamy custard, complemented by the vibrant colors and flavors of fresh berries. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also adds a beautiful centerpiece to your brunch table, making it an ideal choice for family celebrations and festive occasions.

This bake is versatile enough to serve on Christmas morning, New Year’s Day brunch, or any holiday get-together. With its stunning presentation and delightful flavor profile, it’s sure to impress your guests. Plus, the aroma of this dish baking in the oven will create a welcoming atmosphere that invites everyone to the table.

A Make-Ahead Marvel

One of the best features of this Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake is its convenience. You can prepare it the night before and let it soak overnight in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time in the morning but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even richer taste. Just pop it in the oven when you wake up, and you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready to serve in no time.

This make-ahead aspect is particularly helpful during busy holiday seasons when every moment counts. It allows you to enjoy more time with family and friends, rather than being stuck in the kitchen. Simply prepare, bake, and serve, making your holiday brunch stress-free and enjoyable.

Customizing Your Bake

While this recipe features a delightful mix of berries, feel free to customize it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. For instance, you could use seasonal fruits like cranberries or apples, or even add a touch of chocolate chips for a decadent twist. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish your own and adapt it for different occasions.

Also consider adding spices or extracts to enhance the flavor. A hint of nutmeg or a splash of orange extract could elevate the custard, giving it a unique touch that will keep your guests coming back for more. Experimenting with different combinations can lead to delightful surprises, making each bake a new culinary adventure.

Ingredients

For the Bake

6 large croissants, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
4 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

For Topping

Powdered sugar, for dusting
Maple syrup, for serving

Gather all the ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Croissants

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place the croissant pieces and mixed berries in the dish, spreading them out evenly.

Make the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Combine and Soak

Pour the custard mixture over the croissants and berries, making sure to soak all the pieces. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the custard.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and dust with powdered sugar before serving with maple syrup.

Enjoy your delicious Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake warm!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake even further, consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also provide a delightful contrast to the warm, custardy bake. A drizzle of berry compote can also add an extra layer of sweetness and a burst of color.

Pair this dish with your favorite breakfast beverages, such as freshly brewed coffee, hot chocolate, or a festive mimosa. The combination of flavors will create a well-rounded brunch experience that your guests will love.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven. If you find yourself with more than you can eat, consider freezing portions for a quick breakfast option later. Just ensure that they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

When reheating, a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup can refresh the dish and make it feel just as special as when it was first served. This way, you can enjoy the indulgence of the Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake even on busy mornings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it in the morning.

→ What other fruits can I use?

You can substitute other fruits like peaches, bananas, or apples based on your preference.

→ Can I use stale croissants for this recipe?

Absolutely! Stale croissants work well and will absorb the custard beautifully.

→ How should I store leftovers?

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