Description
A delightful casserole made with croissants, blueberries, and a creamy custard, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 large croissants, preferably day-old, cut into large chunks
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Extra blueberries or a drizzle of maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- PREP THE CROISSANTS: Cut or tear the croissants into large bite-sized pieces and place them evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. If the croissants are fresh, toast them in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 10 minutes to dry them out slightly.
- MAKE THE CREAM CHEESE MIXTURE: In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer or spoon to beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps remaining.
- DOLLUP AND SCATTER: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the croissants in the baking dish. Use a butter knife to swirl the cream cheese slightly into the croissants. Evenly scatter the blueberries across the top.
- WHISK THE CUSTARD: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and salt until fully combined and smooth.
- POUR AND PRESS: Slowly pour the custard over the entire croissant mixture, making sure all pieces are moistened. Use a spatula or clean hands to gently press the croissants down so they begin to absorb the custard mixture.
- CHILL OR BAKE: Cover the dish with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- BAKE: Remove the cover and bake the casserole for 40 to 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to firm up slightly.
Notes
- For a richer custard, use more heavy cream.
- Can be prepared a day in advance to save time.
- Customize with other fruits like strawberries or raspberries.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 150mg