Croissant French Toast Bake Recipe

Name: Croissant French Toast Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: Cooking spray; 6 eggs; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 8 large croissants (about 1 1/4 pounds), halved horizontally; Powdered sugar, fresh berries, and/or maple syrup

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

Cooking spray
6 large eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
8 large croissants (about 1 1/4 pounds), halved horizontally
Confectioner's sugar, fresh berries, or maple syrup for serving

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Lightly coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Dip each croissant half into the egg mixture, ensuring it's fully soaked.
Arrange the soaked croissants in the prepared baking dish, overlapping them as needed. Pour any remaining egg mixture over the croissants to ensure even coverage.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the croissants are golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the dish stand for 15 minutes before serving.
Serve with your choice of toppings such as confectioner's sugar, fresh berries, or maple syrup.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Fact	Amount per Serving
Calories	325
Total Fat	19g
Saturated Fat	10g
Cholesterol	163mg
Sodium	361mg
Total Carbohydrate	29g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	10g
Protein	9g
Vitamin C	0mg
Calcium	81mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	157mg

Croissant French Toast Bake Recipe

This delightful Croissant French Toast Bake is an irresistible twist on the classic French toast. Made with buttery croissants, it bakes into a golden, crispy yet soft dish that combines the best qualities of French toast and croissants. Its perfect for brunch, special occasions, or a cozy breakfast gathering.

History and Origin

The origins of French toast can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where bread was dipped in milk and eggs to prevent wastage. However, the idea of baking the dish, as in the case of Croissant French Toast Bake, emerged much later, becoming a popular breakfast dish in America during the late 19th century. The use of croissants in this variation adds a French flair, combining the delicate, flaky texture of the pastry with the rich flavors of a traditional French toast. This dish exemplifies how culinary traditions evolve and adapt, creating new classics like this one.

Regional Variations

Croissant French Toast Bake can be found in various forms across the United States, especially during brunch or holiday seasons. In places with a strong French influence, such as New Orleans or parts of New York City, variations might include additional flavorings like orange zest or liqueurs like Grand Marnier. This recipes use of croissants gives it a more luxurious, buttery taste compared to the standard bread-based French toast casseroles commonly found in more traditional regions.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional French toast, which is typically fried in a pan, Croissant French Toast Bake is baked in the oven, allowing for a crisp top and a soft, custardy center. The use of croissants instead of regular bread makes the dish fluffier and richer. This recipe also resembles a breakfast casserole, but with the addition of flaky croissants, the texture is lighter, and the flavor more refined. The richness of croissants elevates this dish, making it feel more like a dessert than a typical breakfast item.

Where It's Typically Served

Croissant French Toast Bake is often served at holiday brunches, special occasions, or as a decadent breakfast for family gatherings. Its also a popular choice for potlucks or brunches with friends due to its ease of preparation. The dish pairs wonderfully with fresh berries, powdered sugar, or maple syrup, making it both a visual and culinary treat. Many enjoy it during celebrations like Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter, where its indulgent qualities add a festive touch to the table.

Interesting Facts

Did you know that croissants were originally from Austria, not France? They were created in Vienna in the 17th century to celebrate a victory over the Ottoman Empire. The shape of the croissant is said to mimic the crescent moon on the Ottoman flag. Despite its Austrian origins, the pastry became a symbol of French baking when it was popularized in Paris in the 19th century. Croissant French Toast Bake is a great example of how culinary traditions can be blended and modified over time to create new, delicious dishes that are enjoyed worldwide.

FAQ about Croissant French Toast Bake Recipe

Yes, you can assemble the Croissant French Toast Bake the night before. Once you've arranged the croissants and poured the egg mixture, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake it as directed. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly if it’s cold from the fridge.

Yes, you can freeze the assembled bake before baking it. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. If baking from frozen, increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.

Leftover Croissant French Toast Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

While the recipe is designed for croissants, you can substitute them with other types of bread like brioche, challah, or a dense white bread. If you use a firmer bread, it may require a slightly longer soaking time to fully absorb the egg mixture.

Yes, you can adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the amount of brown sugar in the egg mixture. Some people also add a bit of maple syrup to the egg mixture or drizzle it on top after baking for extra sweetness.

Absolutely! This Croissant French Toast Bake is perfect for brunches as it can be made ahead and baked just before serving. It’s also a great dish to feed a crowd, and the combination of croissants, cinnamon, and vanilla makes it both comforting and indulgent.

Yes, you can substitute the milk and heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. If you use a non-dairy milk with a stronger flavor, like coconut, it will slightly alter the taste, but it will still work well.

To reduce the richness of this dish, you can cut down on the amount of butter and cream used. Consider substituting some of the heavy cream with milk or a lighter dairy alternative. Additionally, you could reduce the amount of croissants or use a lighter bread.

Yes, you can add fruits like berries or sliced bananas, or even chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the bake. Simply scatter them between the croissant layers before baking, or sprinkle them on top before serving.

You can serve this dish with a variety of toppings, such as powdered sugar, fresh berries, maple syrup, or whipped cream. A side of bacon or sausage pairs well with the sweetness, balancing the flavors for a full breakfast or brunch spread.

Comments

CrispBoba9804

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

I was excited to make this for my husband for a change from his usual eggs. I bought 20 ounces of croissants (according to the recipe) but found that 10 ounces seemed quite appropriate. If I had used all 20 ounces, the toast would be way too "dry." I had just the right amount of the egg/milk mixture for 10 ounces of croissants. May up the sugar next time to 2 1/2 Tablespoons.

Peggy Jordan Riedinger

12/27/2023 07:52:26 PM

Excellent recipe. Even my husband who avoids anything called “French Toast” liked it. Used six big croissants from Costco and just about half heavy cream/half milk - using up Christmas leftovers. No other changes.

Ginger

04/21/2025 10:58:11 PM

Absolutely delicious! I read all the tweaks and suggestions and ended using 6 Costco croissants that I cut into 1” chunks. I added an additional Tablespoon of brown sugar to the egg moisture and baked in a glass casserole pan for 40 minutes at 375°.

QuickBean8870

07/13/2025 02:23:44 AM

This dish was as beautiful as it was tasty! I had an early morning potluck so I mixed the ingredients & assembled the dish the night before, then refrigerated it & the leftover egg mixture. In the morning as the oven was preheating I poured the remainder of the wet ingredients over the entire dish. In just 20 minutes the top was already toasty so I covered the dish with foil for the last 10. Once baked I sprinkled it with a cinnamon sugar mixture as well as a light dusting of powdered sugar and garnished it with a few fresh blueberries to add color, then served it with a fresh, warm raspberry/blueberry compote. This dish is so delicious & simple that it will be replacing the French toast casserole that's been in our brunch rotation for years.

Ann McGibbon Lowder

01/01/2025 03:01:59 PM

So I cut up the croissants into big chunks (felt it was easier/faster) and it took more than 30 min for me to bake to doneness so next time I’d do a higher temp like 375/400 for slightly longer, aluminum foil for part maybe to prevent over browning. I would add a tiny bit more sugar like the other poster said and because I did chunks mine was pretty moist so don’t do that if you want a drier bake. Loved this. Amazing with whipped cream and syrup. I suggest maybe baking in blueberries. Great recipe!

LivelyCow1858

04/29/2024 09:04:25 AM

This might be my new favourite way to make French toast! The croissants don't get quite as soggy as bread sometimes can, but you still get those great cinnamon-y flavours. I used eight croissants, but their weight was a little lower than on the recipe. However, they fit perfectly in my 9x13 dish and got a good amount of coverage from the liquid. I think it's good to use slightly stale or dry croissants so that they soak up more of the liquid and hold their shape.

Danielle Kirchmeyer

09/28/2024 08:46:45 PM

This recipe turned out great! I used 7 big Costco croissants and went a little generous on the milk and cream. I also added a quarter of a tablespoon more of brown sugar and it wasn't too sweet. My two boys and husband all liked it! I look forward to making this again for my extended family when they stay with us for the holidays.

RusticCup6015

06/21/2025 04:25:29 PM

Great twist on a breakfast casserole. Kicks the presentation up a notch. I used about half the croissants and thought it was a good amount. Not sure why anyone would cut up the croissants and ruin the visual appeal. As for the “too much starch and sugar” comment, I figured as much reading the recipe and happily indulged!!

breezermom

06/29/2025 01:11:25 AM

We had this for a quick breakfast for dinner. It is very sweet, so almost qualified as dessert too. We really enjoyed this easy to make dish.

Michael Carter

02/16/2025 11:22:20 PM

Made it for lunch, ruined dinner plans.

Wendy

12/26/2024 05:06:47 PM

Made ahead Christmas Eve so I could bake Christmas morning for family breakfast. Doubled the recipe as directed/ no changes . It was scrumptious!! Definitely will make again

Victoria Flores

07/26/2024 06:59:57 AM

I’ve made similar recipes, but this one’s the best.

Jeffrey Brown

07/25/2024 11:55:55 PM

This is the kind of recipe that makes you look like a pro.

Bonnie S

03/30/2024 02:24:43 PM

This delightful and delicious recipe is perfect for early morning friends and family gatherings. It’s easy and simple to prepare. I get rave compliments each time I bake it. I love to invite friends over for Sunday morning coffee ☕️ and serve this dish.

Pamela Montgomery

03/24/2024 03:22:14 PM

I doubled the recipe and made this for a coffee social. It was absolutely delicious and there were many compliments. Thank you for the recipe!

Mark Gomez

03/01/2024 07:00:23 PM

Bro, I officially feel like a kitchen legend.

Bonnie Carlson

12/17/2023 07:25:17 PM

Looks like a culinary illusion—simple yet elegant! I think I've just discovered my secret weapon for brunch battles.

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Croissant French Toast Bake Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

History and Origin

Regional Variations

Differences from Similar Dishes

Where It's Typically Served

Interesting Facts

FAQ about Croissant French Toast Bake Recipe