Description
Welcome, food lovers! Today, we’re diving into a delightful twist on a classic breakfast dish: French Toast Casserole with Croissants. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weekend brunch idea or a special treat to impress your loved ones, this French Toast Casserole is a must-try. Soft, buttery croissants soaked in a rich, custardy mixture topped with a crispy crumble will surely make your mornings brighter. If you’re a fan of French toast, this variation using croissants will take your breakfast game to the next level!
Ingredients
- 6 large croissants (preferably slightly stale, sliced)
- 4 large eggs (adds richness to the custard)
- 1 cup milk (you can substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option)
- ½ cup heavy cream (for a creamy texture)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (can be replaced with maple syrup for a refined sugar-free version)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (choose pure extract for the best flavor)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for a warm, spicy note)
- Pinch of salt (balances the sweetness)
For the crumble topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup cold unsalted butter, diced
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease your baking dish generously with butter to ensure nothing sticks. Slice the croissants and arrange them in layers in the dish.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure the mixture is well-combined and smooth.
Step 3: Pour the Custard Over the Croissants
Evenly pour the custard mixture over the croissants, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Press the croissants slightly with a spatula to help them absorb the custard.
Step 4: Prepare the Crumble Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold butter and use your fingers to mix it in, creating a crumbly texture.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Topping
Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the croissants. Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld and the croissants absorb the custard.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use stale croissants for the best texture, as they absorb the custard without becoming too soggy.
- Add fresh fruit like blueberries or raspberries to the layers for a burst of color and flavor.
- Experiment with toppings such as a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra indulgence.