Ingredients
Method
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.
