Before we jump into the delightful world of the Mixed Berry Overnight Croissant Breakfast Bake, let’s chat about how to elevate your breakfast experience. This dish is a showstopper, making it perfect for brunch or a family gathering.
1. Fresh Coffee or Herbal Tea Starting your morning with a hot cup of java or a calming herbal tea can set the tone for the day. The cozy flavors mingle perfectly with the richness of the croissants.
2. Whipped Cream A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a delightful sweetness. It balances the tartness of the berries. Trust me; it makes everything a bit more indulgent.
3. Maple Syrup Everything is better with a drizzle of maple syrup. Pouring this over your breakfast bake adds a glorious shine and a sweet kick that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.
4. Yogurt Plain Greek yogurt adds a creamy, tangy element. It’s refreshing and provides some protein, making this dish more filling.
Now that we’ve set the stage with some delicious pairings, let's delve into the goodness that is the Mixed Berry Overnight Croissant Breakfast Bake.
Picture this: it’s Sunday morning. The sun streams through the windows, and the aroma of freshly baked croissants wafts through your home. You gather your loved ones around the table, bringing with you a dish that looks as heavenly as it tastes.
Welcome to the Mixed Berry Overnight Croissant Breakfast Bake. This dish invites you to savor blissful mornings with minimal effort. It combines the flakiness of croissants, the sweetness of mixed berries, and a creamy custard that binds it all together.
This recipe is not just a breakfast; it's an experience. With its simple preparation and delectable taste, it promises to become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire.
What is Mixed Berry Overnight Croissant Breakfast Bake?
Mixed Berry Overnight Croissant Breakfast Bake is a lovely breakfast casserole that you can prepare the night before. The buttery croissants soak up a mixture of eggs, milk, and vanilla, which creates a velvety custard-like filling.
When you add fresh berries to the mix, you achieve a delightful balance of flavors and textures. After a night in the fridge, the bake transforms into a custardy, berry-filled delight that's truly irresistible.
What Does It Taste Like?
Imagine digging into this warm bake. The croissants offer a flaky, buttery bite that plays wonderfully against the sweet and slightly tart notes of the berries.
Each spoonful reveals pockets of creamy custard that envelop the croissants, creating a comforting mouthful. The burst of juicy berries adds a refreshing touch to every bite, making an ordinary breakfast feel extraordinary. It’s like a hug for your taste buds.
Why This Recipe Works
Here are four compelling reasons why this recipe is a breakfast dream come true.
1. Convenience Preparing this dish the night before means less chaos in the morning. It allows you to sip your coffee leisurely while the oven does the work. Just pop it in and let the magic happen!
2. Flavor Fusion The combination of butter from the croissants, creaminess from the custard, and the sweetness of the berries creates a complex flavor profile that never feels flat. Each component shines through, making every bite an adventure.
3. Customizable You can easily adjust this recipe to fit your pantry. If you're missing a berry or want to switch up the flavors, go for it! This dish is versatile. You can use whatever berries or bread you have on hand.
4. Feeding a Crowd This bake is perfect for serving a group. It can easily feed multiple people, making it ideal for brunch parties or family gatherings. No need to fuss with individual servings; simply slice and serve.
Ingredients for Mixed Berry Overnight Croissant Breakfast Bake
Now that you’re craving this dish, here’s what you’ll need:
Base Ingredients:
8 oz block-style cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 tsp finely grated lemon zest
½ tsp ground cinnamon
2 large eggs
1 cup whole or 2% milk
1 ½ cups fresh mixed berries (raspberries, blackberries, blueberries)
1 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
4 large bakery-style croissants, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
½ cup white granulated sugar
Vanilla Bean Glaze:
1 tsp vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
2–3 Tbsp heavy cream (or half-and-half/milk)
½ cup confectioners’ sugar
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
Start by taking the softened cream cheese and placing it in a mixing bowl. Add the grated lemon zest and ground cinnamon.
Using an electric mixer, blend until smooth. Slowly pour in the milk while mixing continuously, ensuring there are no lumps. Finally, add the eggs and vanilla extract, beating until everything is well combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Croissants and Berries
Next, cut your croissants into 1-inch pieces. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the croissant pieces with the mixed berries. Make sure they are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the croissant and berry blend. Look for every piece to be well coated in that luscious mixture.
Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight
Transfer the combined mixture into a greased baking dish. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This step allows the croissants to soak up all that creamy goodness.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the fridge and uncover it. Drizzle the melted butter over the top, and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
While it bakes, prepare the vanilla bean glaze. In a small bowl, mix the vanilla bean paste with the cream and confectioners’ sugar. Adjust the consistency as needed.
Step 7: Serve
Allow the bake to cool slightly before drizzling with the vanilla glaze. Slice and serve warm.
Notes
Here are some tips to ensure success with your Mixed Berry Overnight Croissant Breakfast Bake:
Fresh Berries: Use fresh berries for optimal flavor and texture. Frozen berries can be watery and alter the bake's consistency.
Day-Old Croissants: If you have croissants that are a day or two old, this recipe is perfect. They absorb the custard better than fresh croissants.
Let it Set: Allow the bake to sit for about 10 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps it firm up and makes for easier slicing.
Extra Brioche Option: For an even richer flavor, swap out croissants for brioche bread. It’s a game changer.
Dairy-Free Alternative: If you need a dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese with a plant-based version and use almond or coconut milk.
Nutrition Information
Each serving is approximately:
Calories: 390
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 18g
Total Fat: 20g
How To Store The Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place portions in the oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave single servings for a quicker option; just cover them to retain moisture.
Sides for Mixed Berry Overnight Croissant Breakfast Bake
Looking to round out your brunch? Here are some side suggestions:
1. Fresh Fruit Salad A colorful medley of fruits can bring brightness to your plate and cut through the richness of the bake.
2. Sautéed Spinach A savory side that introduces greens into your meal, sautéed spinach with garlic is quick, easy, and a fantastic contrast to the sweetness.
3. Breakfast Sausages A side of savory sausage links or patties pairs well with this sweet dish, providing a balance of flavors.
4. Smoothies A berry or spinach smoothie can serve as a refreshing drink alongside the bake. Blend up some spinach, a banana, and a handful of berries to keep with the theme.
Alternative Choices for Ingredients
Not all ingredients might be available at the moment. Here are some alternatives if you're low on supplies:
1. Croissants If croissants aren’t available, feel free to use sliced challah or sourdough bread. Both add delightful flavor and texture.
2. Cream Cheese A thick yogurt can be used instead of cream cheese for a lighter variation.
3. Mixed Berries While a mix of berries is great, you can opt for just one type of berry. Strawberries or blueberries work wonderfully on their own.
4. Granulated Sugar If you’re looking to cut down on refined sugar, use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute with baking properties.
Conclusion
There’s a reason the Mixed Berry Overnight Croissant Breakfast Bake is becoming a staple in many households. Its simplicity, flavor, and the ability to prepare it ahead of time make it a game-changer for busy mornings or festive gatherings.
So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to impress your friends and family. Each bite is a testament to easy yet exquisite cooking, reminding us that breakfast can indeed be the best meal of the day. Enjoy!
Picture this: it’s Sunday morning. The sun streams through the windows, and the aroma of freshly baked croissants wafts through your home. You gather your loved ones around the table, bringing with you a dish that looks as heavenly as it tastes.
Welcome to the Mixed Berry Overnight Croissant Breakfast Bake. This dish invites you to savor blissful mornings with minimal effort. It combines the flakiness of croissants, the sweetness of mixed berries, and a creamy custard that binds it all together.
Ingredients
Now that you’re craving this dish, here’s what you’ll need:
Base Ingredients:
8oz block-style cream cheese, softened to room temperature
4large 4 bakery-style croissants, cut into 1-inch pieces
1tsp pure vanilla extract
½cup white granulated sugar
Vanilla Bean Glaze:
1tsp vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
22–3Tbsp heavy cream (or half-and-half/milk)
½cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
1
Start by taking the softened cream cheese and placing it in a mixing bowl. Add the grated lemon zest and ground cinnamon.
2
Using an electric mixer, blend until smooth. Slowly pour in the milk while mixing continuously, ensuring there are no lumps. Finally, add the eggs and vanilla extract, beating until everything is well combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Croissants and Berries
3
Next, cut your croissants into 1-inch pieces. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the croissant pieces with the mixed berries. Make sure they are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Combine Mixtures
4
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the croissant and berry blend. Look for every piece to be well coated in that luscious mixture.
Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight
5
Transfer the combined mixture into a greased baking dish. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This step allows the croissants to soak up all that creamy goodness.
Step 5: Bake
6
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the fridge and uncover it. Drizzle the melted butter over the top, and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
7
While it bakes, prepare the vanilla bean glaze. In a small bowl, mix the vanilla bean paste with the cream and confectioners’ sugar. Adjust the consistency as needed.
Step 7: Serve
8
Allow the bake to cool slightly before drizzling with the vanilla glaze. Slice and serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Amount Per Serving
Calories390kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat20g31%
Total Carbohydrate50g17%
Dietary Fiber2g8%
Sugars18g
Protein6g12%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Here are some tips to ensure success with your Mixed Berry Overnight Croissant Breakfast Bake:
Fresh Berries: Use fresh berries for optimal flavor and texture. Frozen berries can be watery and alter the bake's consistency.
Day-Old Croissants: If you have croissants that are a day or two old, this recipe is perfect. They absorb the custard better than fresh croissants.
Let it Set: Allow the bake to sit for about 10 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps it firm up and makes for easier slicing.
Extra Brioche Option: For an even richer flavor, swap out croissants for brioche bread. It’s a game changer.
Dairy-Free Alternative: If you need a dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese with a plant-based version and use almond or coconut milk.
Kathleen Looney is a Texas-based registered dietitian and the creator of Easy Comfort Food Recipes, where she shares simple, hearty dishes that bring warmth and joy to the table. Combining her love for Southern classics and Tex-Mex flavors, Kathleen creates approachable recipes that balance indulgence and nutrition. Her passion lies in helping home cooks prepare comforting, soul-satisfying meals that nourish both body and spirit.