I absolutely love how this Berry Croissant Bake turns buttery croissants and mixed berries into a seriously indulgent, satisfying treat. The cream cheese custard infuses each bite with a velvety sweetness that reminds me of classic pastries. It’s fresh, inventive, and perfect for a laid-back brunch or dessert.

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I’ve recently tried out this Berry Croissant Bake and let me tell you, it’s a must for those looking for a hearty brunch treat. I loved how the buttery croissants, cut into chunks, absorb the egg and milk mixture, along with softened cream cheese and granulated sugar for a perfectly balanced sweet taste.

The 1 pound of mixed berries, including strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, give it a burst of natural flavor and fiber that you really need to kick start your day. The addition of vanilla extract and a couple of large eggs not only binds the dish but also adds protein and richness.

It’s not just another berry croissant recipe but also one of those quick Sunday breakfast ideas I’ve always wanted to try. I know it sometimes reminds me of a crescent roll french toast bake, but it packs a lot of nutritional value and taste all in one.

Why I Like this Recipe

I really like this recipe because it mixes all these delicious flavors in one dish. First, I love how the buttery croissants soak up that creamy custard and the juices from the berries. It makes each bite soft and full of flavor. Second, the mix of mixed berries gives it this sweet and tangy twist that makes me think of a Danish pastry but even cozier, you know? Third, its really simple to prep and you can even let it sit overnight which is perfect when I’m in a rush or just want to make things ahead. And finally, I appreciate that it feels like a treat for both breakfast and dessert, which makes it super versatile and comforting.

Ingredients

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Croissants are rich in carbohydrates and fats.
They add a soft, buttery texture.
Mixed berries pack fiber, vitamins, and a mix of tart and sweet flavors.
Cream cheese provides a smooth, tangy richness that helps bind all the ingredients.
Eggs contribute protein and help the custard set into a lovely, gooey base.
Whole milk adds calcium and creaminess, making the dessert extra indulgent.
Unsalted butter boosts the overall flavor and creates a luscious, moist crumb.

Ingredient Quantities

8 buttery croissants, roughly cut into chunks

1 pound mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 large eggs

1 cup whole milk

2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter

Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting

How to Make this

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1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish well.

2. In a large bowl, add the croissant chunks and mixed berries.

3. In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until mostly smooth.

4. Crack the eggs into the cream cheese mixture and whisk them in until well combined.

5. Slowly stir in the whole milk and melted butter into the cream cheese mix until there are no lumps.

6. Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the croissant and berry mixture in the dish.

7. Let the entire dish sit for at least 10 minutes so the croissants soak up some of the liquid (you can also cover it and leave in the fridge overnight if making ahead).

8. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top gets a light golden color and the custard is set.

9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

10. If you like, dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving for an extra sweet touch. Enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven (preheat to 375°F)
2. Well-greased baking dish
3. Large mixing bowl for croissants and berries
4. Separate bowl for the cream cheese mixture
5. Whisk or fork for beating the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla
6. Measuring cups and spoons for ingredients like milk, sugar, butter, etc.
7. Knife for cutting croissants into chunks if not pre-cut
8. Spatula for gently stirring all the ingredients together
9. Cooling rack (or a safe surface) to let the dish cool after baking
10. Optional sifter if you want to dust with powdered sugar extra lightly

FAQ

Q: Can I use any type of croissants for this recipe?

A: Sure, you can use regular buttery croissants, but if you use a different kind it might change the flavor a bit so best stick with the classic ones.

Q: What should I do if I don't have mixed berries?

A: No worries, you can use all strawberries or blueberries. Just keep in mind that the flavor might be a bit sweeter or tangier depending on what you choose.

Q: Can this be made ahead of time?

A: Yup, you can prep it the night before and pop it in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature before baking.

Q: How do I know when its done baking?

A: The croissants should be crispy on the edges and the cream cheese mixture set. Check by sliding a toothpick in the center if it comes out clean then its ready.

Q: Can I substitute the cream cheese?

A: You might try using mascarpone for a richer taste, but the texture and flavor might change a bit from the original recipe.

Berry Croissant Bake Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Instead of buttery croissants, you can try using a day-old brioche or even croissant rolls if you can’t get your hands on the real deal.
If you’re out of cream cheese, mascarpone works just fine for that rich creaminess even if it tastes a bit different.
You can swap the mixed berries with other fruits like peaches or plums if the berries aren’t in season or on sale.
Whole milk can be replaced by 2% milk or even almond milk if you want a lighter version or a dairy free option.
Melted unsalted butter can be switched for coconut oil if you prefer a slightly tropical flavor or need a dairy free alternative.

Pro Tips

1. I would let the mixture sit in the fridge overnight if you can, it really helps the croissants soak up all the custard and makes the flavors blend even better.
2. Be sure to whisk the cream cheese mix real good so you dont end up with lumps in your custard, it makes a huge difference in the overall texture.
3. For a little extra crunch, try lightly toasting the croissant chunks before mixing them with the berries – it gives a neat contrast with the soft custard.
4. Keep an eye on it in the oven near the end; if the middle still jiggles a bit when you move the dish, you dont want to overbake it cause that can make it too dry.