Description
This Blueberry Cream Cheese Croissant Casserole is a delightful breakfast or brunch dish featuring buttery croissants soaked in a creamy, sweetened cream cheese custard with bursts of fresh blueberries. Baked until golden and bubbly, it offers a perfect balance of rich, tangy, and fruity flavors that will impress family and guests alike.
Ingredients
Scale
Croissant and Fruit
- 6 large croissants, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Cream Cheese Custard
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Optional
- Powdered sugar, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Arrange Croissants and Blueberries: Place the croissant pieces evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, then evenly sprinkle the fresh or frozen blueberries over the croissants for bursts of fruity flavor.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy, creating a rich base for the custard.
- Add Eggs to Cream Cheese: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the cream cheese, beating thoroughly after each addition to maintain a smooth mixture.
- Combine Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt into the cream cheese and egg mixture, whisking together until the custard is fully smooth and well combined.
- Pour Custard Over Croissants: Evenly pour the cream cheese custard over the croissant and blueberry layer, making sure all croissant pieces are covered and soaked thoroughly.
- Press Down Croissants: Gently press the croissant pieces into the custard to help them absorb the liquid and ensure a custardy texture throughout.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to start setting the custard.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is fully set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired for a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
Notes
- Use day-old croissants if possible, as they absorb the custard better without becoming too soggy.
- Fresh blueberries provide the best flavor, but frozen blueberries are a convenient alternative—just use them directly without thawing.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top before baking.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before: assemble and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning (add 5-10 minutes to baking time).
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor, accompanied by fresh fruit or a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
