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Croissant French Toast Bake with Berries and Almonds

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This easy Croissant French Toast Bake combines buttery croissants, juicy berries, and a sweet vanilla-almond custard, all topped with crunchy sliced almonds. It’s a crowd-pleasing brunch casserole that’s perfect for holidays or lazy weekends.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 large or 8 medium croissants (about 12–14 oz)
  • 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen; strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
  • 5 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
  • Maple syrup or honey, for serving

Instructions

  1. Slice croissants into thick rounds or split in half lengthwise. Arrange in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, overlapping and nestling the pieces. Scatter mixed berries evenly between and over the croissants.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until blended. Add milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
  3. Slowly pour the custard evenly over the croissants, coating all pieces. Gently press croissants down to soak up the liquid. Let sit for at least 20 minutes at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate overnight.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F. Sprinkle sliced almonds over the top. Bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes, until the top is golden, puffed, and the center is just set (a knife inserted should come out mostly clean). If browning too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.
  5. Let bake cool for 10–15 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup or honey. Add extra berries on top if desired.

Notes

For best results, use day-old croissants. Letting the croissants soak in custard overnight deepens flavor and improves texture. Toast almonds for extra crunch. To make gluten-free, use gluten-free croissants or brioche. For nut-free, omit almonds or use pumpkin/sunflower seeds. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.

Nutrition

Keywords: croissant french toast bake, brunch casserole, berries, almonds, easy breakfast, holiday brunch, make ahead, crowd pleaser, french toast casserole

Find it online: https://blipflavor.com/croissant-french-toast-bake-recipe-easy-berry-and-almond-brunch/