Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something enchanting about waking up to the scent of freshly baked blueberry croissants wafting through the kitchen. My Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake is the perfect union of tender croissants, luscious blueberry jam, and creamy ricotta, all cocooned in a rich, cinnamon-infused custard. This make-ahead delight not only dazzles at brunch gatherings but also transforms your morning routine into a cozy celebration, making it an easy crowd-pleaser. Plus, its versatile nature means you can easily adapt it with different jams or add a dash of your favorite liqueur for a fun twist. Curious about how this simple yet impressive dish can elevate your next gathering? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try? Simplicity: This Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake requires minimal prep, making it perfect for busy mornings or gatherings. Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your friends and family with this stunning dish that combines the nostalgia of croissants with the joy of a comforting breakfast. Versatile Options: Feel free to swap out the blueberry jam for raspberry or strawberry, or even add nuts for a delightful crunch! Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it the night before, so all you have to do in the morning is bake and enjoy. Decadent Flavor: The luscious layer of ricotta, complemented by the buttery croissants, creates a mouthwatering experience perfect for any season! Dive into this recipe, and don’t forget to pair it with fresh fruit or a side of crispy bacon for balance. Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake Ingredients • Your journey to a scrumptious brunch begins here! For the Custard Mixture Large Eggs – Provides structure and richness; substitute with egg replacer for a vegan option. Milk – Adds creaminess and flavor; use almond milk for a dairy-free alternative. Maple Syrup – Sweetens the batter; honey or agave syrup can be used as a substitute. Orange Zest – Enhances flavor depth; can replace with lemon zest for a different citrus touch. Grand Marnier – Orange liqueur that adds unique flavor; omit for non-alcoholic or substitute with orange juice for freshness. Vanilla Extract – Flavor enhancer; could use vanilla bean or omit if unavailable. Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; pumpkin pie spice can be used as an alternative. Salt – Enhances overall flavors; no substitutes necessary. For the Assembly Croissants – Main component providing flakiness and softness; mini croissants are preferred but regular size will work too. Blueberry Jam – Gives natural sweetness; any fruit jam can be substituted. Ricotta Cheese – Adds creaminess; replace with dairy-free ricotta for a vegan option. Cold Salted Butter – Provides richness and flavor; can omit for a lighter option or use a plant-based butter. Fresh Blueberries – For garnish and added texture; any fresh berries work as a substitute. For the Cinnamon Syrup Maple Syrup – A sweet, gooey base for your syrup; can keep it simple using just maple syrup. Cinnamon Sticks – Infuses the syrup with warmth; for a quick version, ground cinnamon can be used instead. Butter – Adds richness; can omit for a dairy-free option. This Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake is a delightful way to elevate your brunch game! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake Step 1: Prep Dish Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish with cold salted butter. This will help create a non-stick surface, ensuring that your delicious Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake can be easily served after baking. Step 2: Make Batter In a large bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1/2 cup of maple syrup, the zest from one orange, 2 tablespoons of Grand Marnier (if using), 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the ingredients are well combined, creating a rich eggy custard that will soak into the croissants. Step 3: Layer Croissants Gently dip your croissants into the prepared custard, allowing them to soak briefly before placing them in the greased dish. Start by arranging half of the croissants in a single layer, then spread a layer of blueberry jam and dollops of ricotta cheese before layering the remaining croissants on top. The croissant layers will cozy up with the creamy ricotta and sweet blueberry jam. Step 4: Chill Cover the assembled dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to overnight. This step is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld and the croissants to absorb the custard, resulting in a more flavorful and cohesive Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake when baked. Step 5: Preheat Oven While your dish enjoys its chilling time, take a moment to double-check that your oven is set to preheat at 375°F (190°C). The proper oven temperature ensures the bake will puff up nicely and develop that lovely golden-brown crust. Step 6: Add Butter After chilling, remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and slice cold salted butter into thin pats. Distribute these pats evenly over the top of the layered croissants. This little touch of butter will enhance the richness and flavor of your bake as it cooks, giving it a delectable finish. Step 7: Bake Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy, and the custard is set. If the top begins to brown too quickly, lightly cover it with aluminum foil. Keep an eye on it—each oven is a bit different! Step 8: Prepare Syrup While the Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake is in the oven, prepare your cinnamon syrup. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of maple syrup with 2 cinnamon sticks and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Allow it to simmer gently for about 10 minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors. Step 9: Serve Once your bake is perfectly golden and set, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm, garnished with fresh blueberries and a drizzle of your homemade cinnamon syrup. This delightful presentation will surely make your Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake a star at any brunch! Expert Tips for Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake Chill Overnight: Allow your assembled bake to chill in the fridge overnight; this step enhances the flavors and ensures a custardy texture. Slightly Toast Croissants: For a less soggy final dish, consider lightly toasting the croissants before soaking; it adds a delightful crispness. Watch Baking Time: Ovens can vary; monitor your bake closely. If the top browns too fast, lightly cover with foil to prevent burning. Customize with Jams: Feel free to substitute the blueberry jam for other fruit jams, like raspberry or apricot, for a unique twist on this classic. Add Fresh Fruit: Garnish with extra fresh blueberries or strawberries when serving to enhance presentation and flavor in your Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake. Make Ahead Options These Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, covering it tightly with plastic wrap to keep the flavors intact and prevent drying. Allowing the croissants to soak overnight in the custard helps develop a rich, custardy texture that is just as delicious when baked. If you’re feeling organized, prep the cinnamon syrup too and refrigerate it—just reheat gently on the stovetop before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake the dish directly from the fridge for 40-50 minutes until golden brown and crisp. This way, you’ll have a delightful brunch ready with minimal morning effort! How to Store and Freeze Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, allowing you to enjoy this delicious Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake on subsequent mornings. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. This makes it easy to enjoy a quick breakfast whenever you crave it! Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This will help preserve the bake’s custardy interior and flaky top. Serving Suggestions: Enjoy with a drizzle of warm cinnamon syrup and fresh blueberries for a delightful breakfast treat! Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake Variations Feel free to get creative with your Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake, adding your personal touch to make it truly yours! Vegan Delight: Substitute ricotta with dairy-free ricotta and use almond milk with an egg replacer for a scrumptious vegan version. Taking a trip down the vegan lane doesn’t mean skimping on flavor! Enjoy every rich, sweet bite without the dairy. Nutty Crunch: Fold in crushed pecans or walnuts into your custard for added texture and crunch that complements the soft croissants beautifully. A delightful surprise of crunch in every mouthful makes this option a fabulous twist to the classic recipe! Citrus Twist: Swap out orange zest for lemon or lime zest to brighten up the flavors, giving your bake a refreshing citrus zing. A little citrus can go a long way in elevating the overall flavor profile, perfecting your brunch experience. Jam Variations: Experiment with different fruit jams such as strawberry, raspberry, or apricot for a new flavor take on this delicious dish. Each jar holds its own unique personality—so why not let them shine in your breakfast bake? Banana Fusion: Fold in sliced bananas between the croissant layers for a delightful fruity addition that pairs perfectly with blueberries. This warm, banana-croissant harmony will seem like a hug on a plate, perfect for a cozy morning treat. Extra Sweetness: Drizzle honey or agave syrup over the top before baking for a touch of extra sweetness that enhances the overall flavor. Sweet treats deserve a little extra sweetness! The gooey syrup will elevate your breakfast bliss. Heat It Up: Spice things up by adding a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the custard mixture for a bold kick. A surprising heat element brings a thrilling twist that leaves a lasting impression—perfect for spice lovers! If you’re looking for a delicious finish, try pairing this with crispy bacon or layered with fresh fruit for a gorgeous brunch spread. Explore the world of flavors and textures with every bite, and don’t hesitate to try your own ideas! What to Serve with Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake Transform your brunch or breakfast into a delightful feast with these complementary dishes that perfectly balance and elevate your Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake. Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon pairs beautifully with the sweet, creamy flavors, offering a savory contrast that every plate needs. Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the bake, brightening each bite with zesty notes. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, homemade whipped cream adds a luscious finish that enhances the overall experience, perfectly complementing the dish’s sweetness. Maple Glazed Sausages: For those who crave a heartier addition, maple-glazed sausage links add a touch of sweetness and meaty richness that aligns seamlessly with the Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake. Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some homemade or store-bought granola on top for a delightful crunch. This adds texture and a nutty flavor that complements the buttery croissants. Iced Coffee: Pair your brunch with a rich iced coffee to balance the sweet flavors, creating a charming pick-me-up that rounds off your meal beautifully. Let your imagination run wild as you mix and match these suggestions to create a brunch spread that tells a delicious story! Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe blueberries for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting blueberries, look for deep blue, plump berries that are free from any dark spots or wrinkles. If they’re slightly firm, that’s great; avoid ones that are mushy. Fresh blueberries will give your Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake a burst of flavor! How should I store leftovers of the Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to cool the bake completely before sealing it to avoid excess moisture. This way, you can easily enjoy this delightful dish again for breakfast! Can I freeze the Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake? Yes, you can! To freeze, let the baked dish cool completely, then cut it into portions. Place each portion in airtight containers or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it remains deliciously soft and custardy. What if my croissants are stale? If your croissants are a little stale, don’t worry! Just lightly toast them before dipping in the custard. This will keep them from becoming too soggy during baking and provide a nice contrast to the creamy filling. You can also add a bit of milk or cream to the custard mixture for a richer flavor if desired. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? For those with dairy allergies, you can easily substitute the ricotta cheese with a dairy-free ricotta or cream cheese alternative. Almond milk or oat milk can replace regular milk, making this Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake suitable for a dairy-free diet. Additionally, you can use an egg replacer to make it vegan-friendly. Always double-check labels on store-bought ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs! How can I enhance the flavor of the Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake? Try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of nutmeg to the custard for an added depth of flavor. You can also swap the blueberry jam for your favorite fruit jam, or fold in chopped nuts for a delightful crunch. Experimenting with your favorite flavors can make this versatile dish even more enjoyable! Irresistible Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake Delight A delightful Blueberry Croissant French Toast Bake combining croissants, blueberry jam, and ricotta in a creamy custard, perfect for brunch. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 50 minutes minsChilling Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Custard Mixture6 large Eggs Can substitute with egg replacer for vegan option.2 cups Milk Use almond milk for dairy-free alternative.1/2 cup Maple Syrup Can substitute with honey or agave syrup.1 tablespoon Orange Zest Can replace with lemon zest.2 tablespoons Grand Marnier Omit for non-alcoholic, or use orange juice.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Could use vanilla bean or omit.1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Pumpkin pie spice can be used as an alternative.1 pinch SaltFor the Assembly1 cup Blueberry Jam Any fruit jam can be substituted.1 cup Ricotta Cheese Can replace with dairy-free ricotta.1/4 cup Cold Salted Butter Can omit for a lighter option.1 cup Fresh Blueberries Any fresh berries work as a substitute.For the Cinnamon Syrup1 cup Maple Syrup2 sticks Cinnamon Ground cinnamon can be used instead.2 tablespoons Butter Can omit for a dairy-free option. Equipment 9x13-inch baking dishMixing Bowlsmall saucepan Method PreparationStart by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9x13 inch baking dish with cold salted butter.In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, orange zest, Grand Marnier, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt.Gently dip your croissants into the prepared custard, allowing them to soak briefly before placing them in the greased dish.Cover the assembled dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to overnight.While chilling, double-check that your oven is set to preheat at 375°F (190°C).After chilling, remove the baking dish and distribute the pats of cold salted butter evenly over the croissants.Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes or until the top is golden.While baking, prepare your cinnamon syrup by combining maple syrup, cinnamon sticks, and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.Once your bake is golden and set, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly, then serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 8gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesThis dish is ideal for brunch and can be prepared the night before. Customize with different jams or toppings as desired. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
