How To Make A Decadent Croissant Casserole with Lemon Curd & Berries
How To Make A Decadent Croissant Casserole with Lemon Curd & Berries
This Croissant Breakfast Casserole with Lemon Curd and Berries is the ultimate brunch upgrade! Flaky croissants, tangy lemon curd, and juicy berries come together in a rich, custardy bake. It’s easy to prepare, can be made ahead, and is perfect for holidays, birthdays, or when you want to indulge in something extra special.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 6 large croissants (preferably day-old)
- 1 cup lemon curd
- 1½ cups fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
- 4 large eggs
- 1½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Tear the croissants into bite-sized pieces and spread them evenly in the dish.
- Scatter the berries over the croissants.
- Dollop lemon curd over the croissants and berries—no need to spread it; it will melt during baking.
- Prepare the custard by whisking together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the custard over the croissant mixture, pressing down gently to ensure the bread absorbs it.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until golden brown on top.
- Dust with powdered sugar (optional) before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use day-old croissants—they absorb the custard better.
- For extra lemon flavor, mix lemon zest into the custard.
- Make-ahead tip: Assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh in the morning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, French-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 21g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: croissant breakfast casserole, lemon curd, berry casserole, brunch bake, easy breakfast recipe, overnight casserole, sweet breakfast, holiday brunch, French toast casserole, custard bake
The Best Thing to Happen to Breakfast
Alright, here’s the deal: brunch should be delicious, fun, and just a little bit indulgent. That’s why this Decadent Croissant Casserole with Lemon Curd and Berries is about to become your new favorite dish. It’s got flaky croissants, tangy lemon curd, and juicy berries all baked together in a custardy dream. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just when you want breakfast to feel a little extra special.
Honestly, the first time I made this, I was winging it. I had some leftover croissants (shocking, right?) and a jar of lemon curd sitting in the fridge. Toss in a handful of berries, and boom—brunch magic. If you love recipes like Buttercream Macarons or the citrusy twist of Simple Blueberry Syrup Recipe, this one’s right up your alley.
The Sweet History of Breakfast Casseroles
Breakfast casseroles have been a thing in American kitchens forever. Traditionally, they’re savory—think eggs, sausage, and cheese. But this sweet twist is all about breaking the rules (in the best way possible). With buttery croissants, the bright zing of lemon curd, and fresh berries, this casserole is like a mash-up of your favorite pastry and a pudding-like dessert.
Speaking of indulgence, this recipe pairs beautifully with other brunch classics like the Olympic Chocolate Muffins Recipe for a chocolatey finish.
Ingredients for the Best Flaky Croissant Casserole with Lemon and Berries
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this casserole:
- 6 large croissants (day-old ones are great—they hold up better in the custard).
- 1 cup lemon curd (store-bought works, but if you’re feeling fancy, homemade is amazing).
- 1½ cups fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are a perfect mix).
- 4 large eggs
- 1½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar (optional, but it’s the finishing touch).
Tools
- A 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Aluminum foil
How to Make a Croissant Breakfast Bake with Lemon Curd and Fresh Berries
This berry and lemon curd croissant casserole is super simple—layer it up, bake, and let the oven do the hard work. The best part? You can prep it the night before for a no-stress morning.
Step-by-Step Recipe for a Perfect Lemon and Berry Decadent Croissant Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. For easy cleanup, line the dish with parchment paper.
Step 2: Layer the Croissants and Berries
Tear croissants into bite-sized pieces and place them in the dish. Scatter the berries evenly over the croissants.
Step 3: Add the Lemon Curd
Dollop spoonfuls of lemon curd over the croissants and berries. There’s no need to spread it out; it’ll melt into the custard as it bakes.
Step 4: Whisk the Custard for Your Sweet Croissant Casserole with Lemon Curd
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and vanilla. Pour this mixture evenly over the croissants, pressing them down gently to ensure they soak up the custard.
Step 5: Bake the Berry and Lemon Croissant Casserole
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use day-old croissants—they soak up the custard better and hold their shape.
- Want more lemon flavor? Stir some lemon zest into the custard mixture.
- If you’re in a rush, assemble the casserole the night before and bake it fresh in the morning.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 330 |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 36g |
| Sugar | 21g |
| Protein | 7g |
Why This Dish Works
This Decadent Croissant Casserole with Lemon Curd and Berries isn’t just about indulgence—it’s got a little something for everyone:
- Berries: Packed with antioxidants that support your health and bring a fresh, tart balance to the dish.
- Eggs: A great source of protein to keep you satisfied long after breakfast.
- Tangy Lemon and Sweet Custard: The perfect harmony that feels rich without being heavy.
It’s that rare combo of decadent and refreshing, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Recipe Variations
Looking to shake things up? These twists make the recipe just as delicious, but with a new flavor spin:
- Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped almonds or walnuts over the top before baking for added crunch and nuttiness.
- Apple Cinnamon Version: Swap out the berries for thinly sliced apples and stir a dash of cinnamon into the custard. It’s warm, cozy, and perfect for fall.
- Vegan Option: Substitute plant-based milk, flaxseed eggs, and vegan croissants for a cruelty-free take that’s just as satisfying.
These variations let you adapt the casserole to fit any taste or dietary need.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making a Lemon Berry Croissant Casserole
Even the best recipes can go sideways with a few slip-ups. Avoid these pitfalls for perfect results every time:
- Skipping the soak: Croissants need time to absorb the custard, or you’ll end up with dry spots. Let them sit for at least 10-15 minutes before baking.
- Using fresh croissants: Day-old croissants hold up better in the custard, keeping the texture just right.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the casserole after removing the foil. You’re looking for a golden top and set custard—no dry edges here!
Serving Suggestions for Your Berry Lemon Croissant Bake
This casserole already steals the show, but pairing it with the right sides and drinks can take your brunch to the next level:
- Sweet-and-Savory Combo: Serve with crispy bacon or sausage for balance.
- Extra Indulgence: Drizzle with warm honey or maple syrup for a touch of extra sweetness.
- Perfect Pairing: Complement the flavors with a refreshing mimosa or a chilled glass of iced coffee.
It’s the kind of dish that works for both casual mornings and fancy gatherings.
Healthier Alternatives
Trying to keep things on the lighter side? Here are some easy swaps without sacrificing flavor:
- Heavy Cream Swap: Use almond milk or Greek yogurt for a lighter custard.
- Sugar Substitution: Replace granulated sugar with stevia, honey, or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
- Whole-Grain Upgrade: Opt for whole-grain croissants to add a boost of fiber to the dish.
These tweaks make it easier to enjoy this casserole guilt-free while keeping all the flavor you love.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re into this, you’ve gotta try these other amazing dishes:
- Taco Casserole
- Tuna Casserole with Potato Chips
- Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
- Lemon Sweet Rolls
- Homemade Coconut Cream Pie
FAQs
Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time! Assemble the dish the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Absolutely! Store-bought lemon curd works perfectly fine and saves time. However, if you prefer a homemade touch, you can make your own lemon curd using eggs, sugar, lemon juice, and butter.
You can also use your favorite combination of cheeses. This recipe can also be frozen for later use. To do so, make the casserole right up to where you would refrigerate it overnight. Instead, cover it with plastic wrap or parchment paper, and then foil, and then freeze it.
While croissants give this casserole a rich, buttery texture, you can substitute them with brioche, challah, or even day-old French bread. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary slightly.
Yes, you can freeze this casserole! Assemble the dish (without baking), wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Conclusion
And there you have it—Decadent Croissant Casserole with Lemon Curd and Berries that’s guaranteed to steal the show at your next brunch. It’s buttery, fruity, tangy, and oh-so-easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or treating yourself, this recipe is the kind of comfort food that never goes out of style. The combination of flaky croissants, zesty lemon curd, and juicy berries creates a dish that’s both indulgent and refreshing—perfect for any occasion.
If you’re a fan of bold, citrusy flavors, you’ll love how the lemon curd adds a bright, tangy twist to this casserole. And if you’re looking for more recipes that highlight the magic of lemon, be sure to check out this Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta—it’s another crowd-pleaser that’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Now, go grab those croissants and make some magic happen! Whether you’re serving this casserole for a lazy weekend breakfast, a holiday brunch, or just because, it’s sure to become a new favorite. Don’t forget to pair it with a cup of coffee or a mimosa for the ultimate brunch experience. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
