French Toast Croissant Bake

Name: French Toast Croissant Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 large croissants, torn into pieces; 6 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Butter for greasing the dish; Powdered sugar for serving; Fresh berries for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes

I can’t tell you how much joy this French Toast Croissant Bake brings to our Sunday mornings. The flaky croissants soaked in a creamy egg mixture, baked to golden perfection, make it a truly indulgent treat. I love how this dish combines the classic flavors of French toast with the buttery texture of croissants, resulting in a breakfast that feels both luxurious and comforting. Each bite is like a warm hug, making it perfect for special occasions or a cozy family brunch.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:25:27.577Z

When I first made this French Toast Croissant Bake, I was blown away by how simply delicious it turned out. The combination of butter and cinnamon in the egg mixture infuses the croissants with a deep flavor that elevates the dish far beyond regular French toast. I highly recommend letting it sit for an hour—or overnight—before baking to enhance the flavors.

This dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes with its golden, crispy top. Pair it with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar for an even nicer presentation. I promise it will become a family favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Flaky, buttery croissants create a unique twist on traditional French toast.
Easy preparation makes it perfect for weekend brunches or special gatherings.
Deliciously soak the croissants for a rich and creamy texture.

The Role of Croissants

Using flaky, buttery croissants instead of traditional bread is what elevates this recipe to something truly special. Croissants absorb the egg mixture beautifully, resulting in a rich and airy texture that's distinct from standard French toast. Be sure to use fresh, soft croissants for the best soaking results. If your croissants are a day or two old, consider lightly toasting them to improve the texture and help them absorb the egg mixture more effectively.

The way croissants caramelize in the oven can create a delightful contrast between the creamy interior and golden, crispy edges. This balance of textures is key; you want to ensure your croissants have enough time in the custard so they soak through, while also baking just long enough to achieve that satisfying crispiness on top. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes of baking — the perfect golden crust should be your visual cue for doneness.

Perfecting the Egg Mixture

Getting the egg mixture right is crucial for the overall flavor and texture of the bake. Whole milk gives the custard a creamy richness that enhances the croissants' buttery flavor. I recommend letting the mixture rest for a few minutes after whisking; this allows the ingredients to emulsify, ensuring a smoother pour over the croissants. If you're looking for a lighter version, you could substitute half of the whole milk with almond milk or another plant-based alternative without compromising the recipe’s integrity.

The addition of sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon brings warmth and sweetness that beautifully complement the croissants. Choosing high-quality vanilla extract will make a noticeable difference, so avoid imitation vanilla if possible. For those looking to experiment, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or even a splash of orange zest for a zesty twist. Make sure your egg mixture is thoroughly combined; a lumpy mixture may result in uneven soaking and texture.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for the perfect French Toast Croissant Bake.

Ingredients

4 large croissants, torn into pieces
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Butter for greasing the dish
Powdered sugar for serving
Fresh berries for garnish (optional)

Make sure to measure all ingredients carefully for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your French Toast Croissant Bake.

Prepare the Croissants

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter, then arrange the torn croissant pieces evenly in the dish.

Make the Egg Mixture

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

Combine and Soak

Pour the egg mixture over the croissant pieces, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Gently press down to submerge any dry pieces. For best results, let it sit for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to overnight.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.

Serve

Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and garnishing with fresh berries. Serve warm and enjoy!

Don't forget to share this delicious recipe with your friends and family!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding orange zest or a splash of maple syrup to the egg mixture before pouring it over the croissants.

Make-Ahead Tips

This French Toast Croissant Bake is ideal for meal prep! You can prepare the dish the night before by assembling the croissants and egg mixture, then covering it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating overnight. This allows the croissants to soak thoroughly, intensifying the flavors. In the morning, simply preheat your oven and bake it directly from the refrigerator — just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.

If you're planning a brunch gathering, you can also double the recipe in a larger baking dish. Just be mindful of adjusting the baking time. Start checking for doneness at the usual 30 minutes, but it may require an additional 10-15 minutes depending on your oven and the depth of the custard.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this indulgent bake straight from the oven is key to enjoying its best flavors. For a delightful presentation, dust the top with powdered sugar just before serving to create an inviting contrast against the golden croissants. Fresh berries not only add a pop of color but also bring a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness of the dish. I often use a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a festive touch.

You can also offer toppings on the side, such as maple syrup or whipped cream, for those craving additional sweetness. For a more gourmet experience, consider adding a dollop of mascarpone cheese or flavored cream cheese. These creamy toppings can elevate the dish further, making it perfect for special breakfast occasions or leisurely weekend brunches.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use stale croissants for this recipe?

Absolutely! Stale croissants work great as they will soak up the egg mixture better.

→ Can I prepare this dish the night before?

Yes! In fact, letting it sit overnight in the refrigerator will enhance the flavors.

→ What toppings pair well with this bake?

Fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup all make delicious toppings.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container and reheat in the oven.