Description
This Blueberry Cream Cheese Croissant Casserole is a deliciously indulgent breakfast or brunch dish combining buttery croissants, creamy sweetened cream cheese, and fresh blueberries. Baked to golden perfection with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla, it’s an easy make-ahead recipe that’s perfect for intimate mornings or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
Scale
Croissant Layer
- 6 large croissants, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 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
For Serving
- Powdered sugar, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Arrange Croissants and Blueberries: Evenly distribute the croissant pieces in the greased baking dish, then sprinkle the blueberries on top to create a balanced fruit layer throughout.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This step ensures a lump-free custard base.
- Add Eggs and Mix: Add the eggs to the cream cheese one at a time, mixing well after each addition to create a consistent mixture.
- Incorporate Milk and Flavorings: Pour in the whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything until completely smooth and combined, forming the custard that will soak the croissants.
- Combine Mixture with Croissants: Pour the cream cheese custard evenly over the croissant and blueberry layer, ensuring all pieces are coated for maximum flavor.
- Soak the Croissants: Gently press the croissant pieces down into the custard to make sure they absorb the liquid evenly and become soft and luscious when baked.
- Cover and Bake First Phase: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This helps the custard set gently without over-browning the top.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until the casserole is golden brown on top and fully set in the middle.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes after baking. Optionally dust with powdered sugar before serving to add a delicate sweetness and attractive finish.
Notes
- You can prepare this casserole the night before by assembling it and refrigerating it overnight; just increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes.
- Frozen blueberries can be used straight from the freezer, no need to thaw.
- For a lighter version, substitute whole milk with 2% or almond milk and reduce sugar to 1/3 cup.
- If croissants are slightly stale, they will absorb the custard better, improving texture.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture and richest flavor.
- Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
