Description
This Blueberry Cream Cheese Croissant Casserole is a rich, indulgent breakfast or brunch dish featuring flaky buttery croissants soaked in a creamy mixture of cream cheese, eggs, milk, maple syrup, and bursting with fresh blueberries. Baked to golden perfection, it offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, perfect for gatherings or cozy mornings.
Ingredients
Scale
Croissant and Fruit
- 8 buttery, flaky croissants, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups fresh or thawed blueberries
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking once the casserole is ready to go in.
- Prepare the Croissants: Cut the croissants into generous bite-sized pieces and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to create the base layer of the casserole.
- Mix the Cream Cheese: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add maple syrup, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, then whisk until fully combined into a smooth custard mixture.
- Add Blueberries: Gently fold fresh or thawed blueberries into the cream cheese custard, taking care not to break or mash the berries.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the cream cheese and blueberry mixture evenly over the croissant pieces. Use a spatula to gently press the croissants downward so they absorb the custard thoroughly.
- Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 20-30 minutes so the croissants soak up the flavorful custard, enhancing texture and taste.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set (a toothpick inserted should come out clean).
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Optionally drizzle with extra maple syrup and enjoy warm.
Notes
- You can prepare this casserole the night before and refrigerate it to save time; just bake in the morning for a fresh breakfast.
- Serve with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the dish’s richness.
- For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts in the custard mixture.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the custard for a warm, cozy flavor twist.
- Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when cooked through.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until warm.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Blueberry casserole, Cream cheese casserole, Breakfast casserole, Brunch recipe, Croissant casserole, Maple syrup dessert, Make-ahead breakfast, Easy blueberry recipe
