Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake

Name: Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 6 large croissants, cut into pieces; 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); 4 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Pinch of salt; Powdered sugar, for dusting; Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Indulge in this delightful Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake, a perfect dish for holiday gatherings and brunch celebrations.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-29T23:09:55.547Z

This Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake is a showstopper that combines buttery croissants with a luscious berry filling, making it the ideal brunch centerpiece.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Layers of buttery croissant goodness with a burst of fresh berries
Easy to prepare ahead of time for stress-free entertaining
Perfectly sweet with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon

      

A Perfect Holiday Treat

The Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake is not just a dish; it’s a centerpiece for your holiday brunch table. This recipe combines the rich, buttery texture of croissants with the vibrant flavors of fresh berries, creating an indulgent experience that everyone will adore. Whether it's Christmas morning or a New Year's brunch, this dish sets the perfect tone for celebration.

With its stunning presentation and mouthwatering aroma, this bake is sure to impress your guests. The contrasting colors of the mixed berries against the golden croissant pieces create a visual feast that is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Plus, the warm, comforting spices of cinnamon and vanilla add an extra layer of warmth, making it a dish everyone will gather around.

Make-Ahead Convenience

One of the best things about the Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake is its make-ahead convenience. You can prepare it the night before, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on the day of your gathering. Simply assemble the croissants and berry layers, pour the custard mixture over, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, all you need to do is pop it in the oven!

This feature makes it a stress-free option for busy hosts. Imagine waking up to a delicious breakfast that requires minimal effort to finish. You can focus on enjoying time with your family and friends rather than spending hours in the kitchen.

Customizable and Versatile

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste and dietary preferences. Feel free to switch up the berries according to what’s in season or what you have on hand. Cherries, blackberries, or even sliced bananas can all work beautifully in this dish, offering unique flavor profiles.

Additionally, you can make it a bit healthier by using whole grain croissants or alternative sweeteners. This flexibility means you can enjoy this festive delight, regardless of dietary restrictions or personal preferences. Make it your own and let your creativity shine!

Ingredients

For the Bake

6 large croissants, cut into pieces
2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
4 large eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt

For the Topping

Powdered sugar, for dusting
Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Gather all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Croissants

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Place the croissant pieces in the dish and scatter the mixed berries evenly on top.

Make the Custard Mixture

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

Combine and Bake

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants and berries, pressing down gently to ensure the croissants absorb the liquid. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and set.

Serve

Let the bake cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and garnishing with fresh mint leaves. Serve warm and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake even further, consider serving it with a side of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup. These additions add a touch of sweetness and creaminess that beautifully complements the dish. A dollop of yogurt can also lend a nice tang and balance the sweetness.

For an even more festive touch, you can add a sprinkle of holiday-themed sprinkles or a few extra berries on top before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also brings an extra burst of flavor. Your guests will be impressed by your attention to detail!

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (though unlikely given how delicious this bake is!), storing them is easy. Allow the dish to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Alternatively, you can freeze portions of the bake. Cut it into squares, wrap them individually, and store in an airtight container in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This way, you can enjoy the festive flavors even after the holiday celebrations have ended.

Pairing Beverages

To complete your holiday brunch, consider pairing the Festive Berry Croissant French Toast Bake with delicious beverages. A warm spiced apple cider or a classic mimosa can enhance the festive atmosphere. Both options complement the sweet and fruity flavors of the bake beautifully.

For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing berry-infused lemonade or a rich hot chocolate can also be great choices. These beverages not only enhance the flavors of your meal but also provide a cozy, inviting experience for your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this dish the night before?

Yes, you can assemble the bake the night before and refrigerate it. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

→ What type of berries can I use?

You can use any combination of berries you prefer, such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.

→ Can I substitute the croissants with another type of bread?

Yes, you can use brioche or challah bread for a different yet delicious flavor.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.