If you are searching for a breakfast or brunch dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake Recipe. Picture flaky, buttery croissants soaked in a luscious custard scented with orange zest and Grand Marnier, layered with creamy ricotta and tangy blueberry jam, then baked to golden perfection. The fresh bursts of juicy blueberries combined with a cinnamon-infused maple syrup glaze make every bite a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and cozy spice. This dish transforms a classic comfort food into an impressive yet simple crowd-pleaser perfect for any special morning or lazy weekend.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for uncomplicated, accessible ingredients, each perfectly chosen to bring richness, brightness, and texture to your Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake Recipe. From the custard base to the fresh fruit toppings, every component works harmoniously to create a gorgeous and flavorful bake.
- Eggs: 6 large eggs provide the essential structure and creamy custard texture classic for a French toast bake.
- Milk: 1 1/2 cups milk adds moisture and helps create the custard that soaks into the croissants.
- Maple syrup: 2 tablespoons for sweetness in the custard, plus an additional cup for the syrup, delivers natural caramel notes.
- Orange zest: 1 tablespoon brightens the custard with a fresh citrus aroma.
- Grand Marnier: 1/4 cup of this orange liqueur adds an indulgent depth and subtle boozy richness.
- Vanilla extract: 1 tablespoon enhances all the flavors with warm, sweet undertones.
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon in the custard and sticks in the syrup infuse gentle spice and warmth.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon balances sweetness and enhances flavor overall.
- Croissants: 14-16, torn in half for perfect soaking and layering with the filling.
- Blueberry jam: 10 ounces provides tart fruitiness and gooey pockets within the bake.
- Ricotta cheese: 1 cup adds creamy, slightly tangy richness that pairs beautifully with blueberries.
- Cold salted butter: 6 tablespoons, thinly sliced, create buttery pockets and a golden crust on top.
- Fresh blueberries: 1 cup gives juicy bursts of freshness scattered on top before baking.
- Cinnamon sticks: 2 for infusing the maple syrup with spicy warmth.
- Salted butter: 2 tablespoons melted into the syrup bring richness and balance saltiness.
How to Make Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Custard
Start by generously buttering a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor to the edges of the bake. In a large bowl, whisk together your eggs, milk, maple syrup, orange zest, Grand Marnier, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined. This custard mixture is the heart of the dish, soaking into the croissants to create that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 2: Assemble the Layers
Tear your croissants in half and toss them gently in the custard so every piece is soaked but not falling apart. Arrange half of the soaked croissants in the bottom of your buttered baking dish, then dollop spoonfuls of blueberry jam and ricotta cheese evenly over the layer. Add the remaining croissants in a top layer, letting some of the jam peek through for that rustic charm. Pour any leftover custard over the entire dish, and scatter fresh blueberries on top for vibrant color and fresh berry bursts.
Step 3: Chill Before Baking
Cover your assembled bake and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, but you can leave it up to overnight if prepping in advance. This chilling step allows the custard to fully soak into the croissants, ensuring maximum flavor and tenderness throughout the bake.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lay thin slices of cold salted butter over the top of the bake to create little pockets of buttery goodness. Bake uncovered for 40-50 minutes or until the top is gorgeously golden and crisp. Keep an eye out and if the croissants brown too quickly, tent the dish gently with foil to finish baking without burning.
Step 5: Simmer the Cinnamon Maple Syrup
While the bake is in the oven, prepare the luscious cinnamon maple syrup. Combine the syrup, cinnamon sticks, and salted butter in a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes. This syrup is a game-changer, with a sweet-spiced finish and a hint of salt that perfectly complements the bake.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once your Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake Recipe is golden and fragrant, serve it warm with a drizzle of the cinnamon maple syrup, fresh berries, and a dollop of whipped cream if you like. Every spoonful is pure breakfast bliss.
How to Serve Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh whipped cream is a classic, decadent topping that adds a silky, cool contrast to the warm bake. Sprinkle extra fresh blueberries or raspberries on top for vivid color and fresh tang. Consider a dusting of powdered sugar or a few mint leaves for a pretty presentation that makes your guests feel truly special.
Side Dishes
This bake shines on its own but pairs beautifully with light sides like crispy bacon or breakfast sausages for a savory balance. Fresh fruit salad or a crisp green salad also provide refreshing contrast. For a touch of elegance, a glass of sparkling orange juice or mimosa rounds out the perfect brunch plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake Recipe straight from the baking dish for a cozy family-style meal, or cut into individual portions and plate with artfully placed syrup drizzles and berries for a restaurant-worthy touch. You can also prepare smaller mini-bakes in ramekins to personalize flavors or for easy gifting to friends and neighbors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, and you might find it tastes even better the next day!
Freezing
You can freeze leftover portions by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or placing them in freezer-safe containers. Frozen portions will keep well for up to 2 months, perfect for quick breakfasts on busy mornings.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through to keep the crust crisp, or microwave slices with a damp paper towel on top to maintain moisture if you’re short on time. Reheat your cinnamon maple syrup separately for that fresh drizzle experience.
FAQs
Can I use day-old croissants for this recipe?
Absolutely! Slightly stale croissants absorb the custard better and actually improve the texture of the bake by becoming beautifully custardy without falling apart too much.
Can I substitute the Grand Marnier?
If you prefer no alcohol, you can omit the Grand Marnier or substitute with orange juice concentrate or orange extract to retain the citrus brightness without the liqueur.
Is there a dairy-free version of this dish?
Yes, you can swap out the milk for almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives. The dish will still be delightful and flavorful!
How far ahead can I assemble the bake?
This bake can be prepared and kept covered in the refrigerator overnight or up to 24 hours in advance, making it excellent for planning ahead before a brunch gathering.
Can I add other fruits instead of blueberries?
Definitely! Raspberries, strawberries, or even cherries can be swapped in or combined with blueberries for a mixed berry twist that stays delicious and colorful.
Final Thoughts
This Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake Recipe has quickly become my go-to recipe for gatherings where I want to impress without stressing. The layers of buttery croissants, luscious custard, creamy ricotta, and juicy blueberries, all brought together with a warm maple-cinnamon syrup, create a dish that feels elegant yet wonderfully homey. I’m excited for you to make it, share it, and maybe even sneak a second helping because it’s just that good.
Print
Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake is a decadent and flavorful breakfast casserole that combines buttery croissants with a rich custard infused with hints of orange zest and Grand Marnier. Layered with tangy blueberry jam, creamy ricotta, and fresh blueberries, it’s baked to golden perfection and served with a warm cinnamon maple syrup for a truly indulgent start to your day.
Ingredients
Custard and Base
- 6 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup Grand Marnier (orange liqueur)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 14–16 croissants, torn in half
Fillings
- 1 jar (10 ounce) blueberry jam
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
Butter Topping
- 6 tablespoons cold salted butter, thinly sliced
Cinnamon Maple Syrup
- 1 cup maple syrup
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish and Custard: Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, orange zest, Grand Marnier, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
- Assemble French Toast Bake: Toss the torn croissant halves in the custard mixture ensuring each piece is well-coated. Arrange half of the soaked croissants in the bottom of the prepared baking dish in an even layer. Dollop the blueberry jam and spoon the ricotta cheese over this base layer.
- Add Top Layer and Fruit: Place the remaining soaked croissant halves evenly over the jam and ricotta layer. Pour any leftover custard mixture evenly across the layered croissants. Sprinkle the fresh blueberries on top to add freshness and texture.
- Chill Before Baking: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the croissants to absorb the custard fully. For deeper flavor, you can refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat Oven: Remove the dish from the refrigerator and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Add Butter Layer and Bake: Arrange the thinly sliced cold salted butter evenly over the croissant top layer. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes. Monitor the top; if it browns too quickly, tent with foil to prevent burning. The bake is done when it is golden and crisp on top and cooked through.
- Make Cinnamon Maple Syrup: While baking, combine the 1 cup of maple syrup, cinnamon sticks, and 2 tablespoons of salted butter in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes to infuse the flavors. Remove from heat and add a pinch of sea salt. Keep warm until serving.
- Serve: Serve the French toast warm, topped with whipped cream, additional fresh berries if desired, and drizzle generously with the warm cinnamon maple syrup. Enjoy your rich and comforting breakfast treat!
Notes
- You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate overnight for a more flavorful and tender bake.
- Use day-old croissants for the best texture, as they absorb custard better without becoming too soggy.
- Substitute Grand Marnier with triple sec or orange juice if preferred or to make it alcohol-free.
- If fresh blueberries are not in season, frozen berries can be used but do not thaw before adding to avoid excess moisture.
- Cover the baking dish with foil if the top crisps too fast to prevent over-browning.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor, leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently in the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
