Introduction
Wake up and smell the croissant French toast casserole! This delightful breakfast dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a way to create magical mornings filled with delicious moments. Perfect for family gatherings or brunches with friends, this casserole combines the buttery, flaky goodness of croissants with the warm embrace of cinnamon and sweetness. Gather your loved ones because every bite of this breakfast gem is sure to bring smiles.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 5 large croissants, torn into pieces
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Directions
1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it up like a champ.
2. Tear those flaky croissants into pieces and spread them evenly in the baking dish.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Pour this creamy mixture over the croissants, making sure they’re all soaked and happy.
4. Now, for the topping! In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Add in the cold butter cubes and mix until crumbly. Sprinkle this sweet mixture over the top of the casserole.
5. Slide that beauty into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, if you can wait that long!
6. Slice, serve, and watch everyone’s eyes light up with delight!
Nutritional Information
Per serving, each portion offers: Calories: 400 kcal, Carbohydrates: 45g, Protein: 10g, Fat: 20g, Saturated Fat: 12g, Sodium: 300mg.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it up like a champ.
Step 2: Prepare the Croissants
Tear those flaky croissants into pieces and spread them evenly in the baking dish.
Step 3: Mix the Custard
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Pour this creamy mixture over the croissants, making sure they’re all soaked and happy.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Add in the cold butter cubes and mix until crumbly. Sprinkle this sweet mixture over the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Slide that beauty into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, if you can wait that long!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Slice, serve, and watch everyone’s eyes light up with delight!
Notes
Serving Suggestion
Pair with fresh fruit, maple syrup, or whipped cream for an extra treat.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, berries, or nuts, to the croissant mixture for added flavor and texture.
Make Ahead Option
To prepare in advance, assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake in the morning after allowing it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Cook Techniques
Preheating the Oven
Ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C) before you begin preparing the casserole. This helps in achieving an even bake and ensures the top becomes golden brown.
Greasing the Baking Dish
Use a non-stick spray or a small amount of butter to grease the 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents the casserole from sticking and makes for easier serving.
Tearing Croissants
Tear the croissants into pieces rather than cutting them. This technique allows the croissants to soak up more of the custard mixture, enhancing the flavor and texture.
Whisking Ingredients
Thoroughly whisk the eggs, milk, cream, and sugars together until well combined. This ensures a smooth and creamy custard that coats the croissant pieces evenly.
Making the Topping
Combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon, then mix in cold butter cubes until the mixture resembles a crumbly texture. This creates a delicious topping that adds flavor and crunch.
Baking
Bake the casserole for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Keep an eye on it toward the end to avoid over-baking.
Letting it Cool
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. This helps set the flavors and makes it easier to slice and serve.
FAQ
Can I use stale croissants for this recipe?
Yes, stale croissants work great as they absorb the custard mixture better, resulting in a deliciously soft texture.
Can I prepare this dish the night before?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just add extra baking time if baking cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option, though it may slightly alter the creaminess.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free croissants and gluten-free flour for the topping to enjoy this casserole without the gluten.
How long does the casserole last in the refrigerator?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
