Decadent Baked Croissant Bake with Creamy Vanilla Custard That Your Family Will Love!

Name: Decadent Baked Croissant Bake with Creamy Vanilla Custard
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 large buttery croissants, cut into halves or quarters; 4 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional); Powdered sugar for dusting; Fresh berries for serving (optional)

Posted on January 31, 2026

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This decadent baked croissant bake with creamy vanilla custard comes together in about 45 minutes and bakes beautifully in one dish for a quick and easy breakfast or brunch that your family will love! Switch up the add-ins, like chocolate chips or fresh fruit, to suit your taste, or use it as a “clean out the fridge” meal to get rid of those random leftovers you’ve been meaning to use!

Ingredient Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need for this fabulous dish:

6 large buttery croissants, cut into halves or quarters. (I recommend day-old croissants if you have them, they’ll soak up that custard beautifully!)
4 large eggs. (Eggs are the magic behind a rich custard. Don’t skip ’em!)
2 cups whole milk. (You can also use 2% if that’s what you have on hand, but whole milk gives it that luscious flavor!)
1 cup heavy cream. (This is what makes the custard extra creamy and rich. Treat yourself!)
3/4 cup granulated sugar. (You could cut back a bit if you’re looking for a less sweet option, but who doesn’t love a bit of sweetness in the morning?)
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract. (For that wonderful, comforting aroma that’s going to fill your kitchen.)
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon. (It’ll add warmth to the dish. Just a pinch brings everything together so cozy!)
1/4 teaspoon salt. (Don’t forget it! A couple pinches can really elevate the flavor!)
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional). (These are a fun addition, especially for the kids!)
Powdered sugar for dusting, because a sprinkle of sweetness on top makes it feel fancy.
Fresh berries for serving (optional). (Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries are my favorites. They really brighten up the plate!)

How to Make Decadent Baked Croissant Bake with Creamy Vanilla Custard

Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps for a dish that’s sure to impress:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives it time to warm up while you prep!
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. You want those croissants to slide right out after baking!
Arrange the cut croissants in the prepared baking dish, placing them in a single layer. They can be a little overlapping; they’re going to puff up beautifully!
If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the top of the croissants. (Seriously, why not?)
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until everything is well combined and smooth. You can really feel that creamy goodness come together here!
Now it’s time to pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants, making sure each piece is well-soaked. The smell? Oh my goodness, just wait!
Gently press down the croissants so they can absorb that custard goodness. You want them nice and soaked for a lovely texture!
Allow the mixture to sit for at least 15 minutes before baking, so the croissants can soak up the custard. If you have more time, cover it and let it refrigerate for 30 minutes trust me, it enhances both flavor and texture.
Pop it in the oven and bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and puffed up. You’ll want a knife inserted in the center to come out clean before serving.
Once baked, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes, if you can resist! Dust with powdered sugar right before serving and dig in warm with those fresh berries if you’re feeling fancy!

Why I Love This Recipe

This decadent baked croissant bake has become my go-to recipe for brunches and lazy breakfasts at home. There’s just something about the creamy custard and warm croissants that turns any morning into a cozy occasion! You know, those days when the kids are a little cranky, and you need something fun to lift the spirits? This dish has saved me more times than I can count!

I’m a real sucker for comfort food that feels like a warm hug. Plus, it’s so flexible! You can use whatever you’ve got on hand, whether it’s leftover pastries, fresh fruit, or even a sprinkle of nuts. And the best part is how quickly it comes together, making busy mornings just a tad bit sweeter.

If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my Effortless Sourdough Croissants, my Garlic Butter Croissants, or my Turkey Croissant Sandwich!

Why This Recipe Works

Comfort Food : Loaded with Tons of Flavor

This recipe is pure comfort food! The custard lends so much creaminess that each bite feels indulgent. Plus, the croissants? They’re incredibly fluffy and buttery, what’s not to love?

Quick & Easy : Comes Together in Under 45 Minutes

That’s right! You can whip this up easily on a weekday morning or for a special weekend brunch. Just prep, soak, and bake! Minimal effort, maximum reward.

Customizable : Use Whatever Ingredients You Have

Got some fruit hanging around? Throw it in! Not a chocolate fan? No problem! You can make this dish your own so feel free to play with the flavors.

Make-Ahead Friendly : Perfect for Meal Prep

Want to impress your weekend guests without the stress? Just prep the croissant bake the night before and pop it in the oven as everyone gathers for breakfast. It’s a total game-changer!

Crowd-Pleaser : The Whole Family Will Love It

Whether you have picky eaters or culinary adventurers, this dish hits all the sweet spots. Trust me, every member of the family will be asking for seconds!

Serving and Storage Tips

How to Serve This Dish

This croissant bake is perfect served warm right out of the oven, trust me, that custardy goodness is unbeatable. Top with a generous dusting of powdered sugar and a handful of fresh berries for that perfect pop of color and flavor. Pair it with a warm cup of coffee or a refreshing orange juice!

Storage

If you have leftovers (though I doubt it!), cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. It should be good for about 3-4 days.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, simply pop it back into a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You could also microwave individual servings on high for 30-60 seconds, but it’s best fresh!

Freezer Friendly?

Yes! You can definitely freeze the uncooked mixture. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and follow the baking instructions from there!

Food has this magical ability to bring families together, doesn’t it? Whether it’s a weekday morning or a relaxed weekend brunch, this Decadent Baked Croissant Bake with Creamy Vanilla Custard is one of those dishes you’ll keep coming back to. I hope your family enjoys it just as much as mine does!

So, what’s stopping you? Get in the kitchen and whip this up today, it’s literally the best thing ever! For more Recipes Follow Us in our Pinterest.