Imagine waking up to a breakfast so luxurious, so mind-blowingly delicious, that it transforms your ordinary morning into a gourmet experience. This Raspberry Croissant French Toast Bake is not just a recipe—it's a culinary revelation that will make your taste buds dance with joy! Forget boring breakfast routines and prepare to be transported to a world of buttery croissants, burst-in-your-mouth raspberries, and a custardy texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you're hosting a weekend brunch or craving a show-stopping breakfast treat, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 6 croissants, torn into pieces
- 1 cup raspberries
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Powdered sugar for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Tear the croissants into rustic, bite-sized pieces, creating uneven chunks that will provide varied texture in the final dish.
- Spread half of the torn croissant pieces across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even base layer.
- Sprinkle approximately half of the fresh raspberries over the croissant layer, allowing them to nestle between the bread pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant and raspberry layer, ensuring all bread pieces are saturated.
- Add the remaining croissant pieces on top, creating a second layer that will absorb the custard mixture.
- Scatter the remaining raspberries across the top of the dish, distributing them evenly.
- Let the dish sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the croissants to fully absorb the egg mixture before baking.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes to allow the dish to set and become easier to serve.
- Dust generously with powdered sugar just before serving, creating a beautiful white coating over the golden-brown surface.
- Serve warm, optionally with additional fresh raspberries or a drizzle of maple syrup on the side.
Tips
- Choose high-quality, slightly stale croissants for the best texture. Day-old croissants absorb the custard mixture more effectively.
- For maximum flavor, use fresh, ripe raspberries. If out of season, frozen raspberries work well—just don't thaw them completely.
- Let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes before baking to ensure the croissants fully absorb the egg mixture, creating a more uniform texture.
- Watch the baking time carefully. The top should be golden brown, but be careful not to over-bake, which can dry out the dish.
- For an extra indulgent touch, add a splash of Grand Marnier or orange liqueur to the egg mixture for a sophisticated flavor boost.
- Serve immediately after dusting with powdered sugar to maintain the crisp edges and warm, custardy center.
- Customize by adding sliced almonds, a drizzle of chocolate, or a dollop of whipped cream for extra decadence.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 160mg
