Description
Berry Lemon Croissant Casserole is a vibrant and indulgent brunch dish that perfectly combines the bright citrus notes of lemon with the natural sweetness of fresh berries and the flaky, buttery texture of croissants. This easy-to-make casserole is soaked in a creamy lemon custard and baked to golden perfection, creating a delightful balance of flavor and texture. Perfect for casual breakfasts, festive brunches, or special gatherings, it’s a cozy treat that pleases every palate.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruits
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup raspberries
Base
- 4 large croissants, day-old or fresh, torn into bite-sized pieces
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (or almond/oat milk for dairy-free option)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional
- Butter (for greasing the baking dish and optional dotting on top)
Instructions
- Prep the Croissants and Berries: Tear the croissants into bite-sized pieces. Wash and slice the berries if needed. Evenly distribute the croissant pieces in a greased baking dish and scatter the berries on top to evenly layer the fruit and bread.
- Make the Lemon Custard Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined to create the custard base.
- Pour Custard and Let Soak: Pour the lemon custard mixture evenly over the croissants and berries, pressing gently to help the bread absorb the liquid. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for best soaking and flavor melding.
- Bake Until Golden and Set: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole on the middle rack until the custard is fully set and the top is golden brown with a slight crisp at the edges, about 35 to 45 minutes.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart. Garnish as desired before serving.
Notes
- Day-old croissants soak up custard better without becoming too mushy, providing ideal texture.
- Use freshly grated lemon zest for a brighter, more aromatic citrus flavor.
- Do not skip the soaking time to ensure the casserole is moist and flavorful throughout.
- Customize by using your favorite seasonal berries for freshness and variety all year round.
- Bake on the middle rack of the oven to promote even cooking and prevent burning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/8 of casserole)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: berry lemon casserole, croissant casserole, brunch recipe, lemon custard bake, berry breakfast casserole, easy brunch dishes