Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

There’s nothing quite like starting the day with a warm, buttery, and slightly citrusy breakfast dish. This Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake is a delightful combination of flaky croissants, creamy custard, and a bright burst of fresh orange flavor. It’s the perfect balance of rich and refreshing, making it an irresistible treat for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or anytime you want to elevate your breakfast game.

A Citrusy Twist on a Classic Bake

Bread puddings and breakfast bakes are known for their comforting, custard-soaked textures, but using croissants takes it to a whole new level. The buttery, flaky layers of croissants absorb the luscious orange-infused custard, creating a golden, crisp top with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior.

What makes this recipe stand out is the fresh orange zest and juice, which add a zippy brightness to balance the richness. With just a handful of ingredients, this breakfast bake comes together effortlessly, making it an easy yet impressive dish to serve. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply indulging in a cozy morning at home, this recipe is guaranteed to please.

Ingredients for Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake

To create this indulgent yet refreshing breakfast bake, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that bring together the perfect balance of buttery, creamy, and citrusy flavors.

• Croissants – Use day-old croissants for the best texture. Their flaky layers will soak up the custard without becoming too mushy.
• Eggs – These create the rich, creamy base for the custard, helping the bake set beautifully.
• Heavy Cream & Milk – A combination of both adds creaminess while keeping the custard light. You can use half-and-half as a substitute.
• Fresh Orange Juice & Zest – The key to this dish’s bright citrus flavor. Fresh oranges work best for a natural, zesty sweetness.
• Sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness to complement the citrus and balance the richness.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavors with a warm, aromatic touch.
• Powdered Sugar (for garnish) – A light dusting of powdered sugar makes the final dish look as beautiful as it tastes.

How to Make Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake

This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for relaxed mornings. Just follow these steps to achieve a perfectly golden and custardy breakfast bake.

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2:

Cut or tear the croissants into large chunks and arrange them in the greased baking dish. This will ensure that each piece absorbs the custard while maintaining its flaky texture.

Step 3:

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, sugar, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4:

Slowly pour the custard mixture over the croissants, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes so the croissants can soak up the liquid.

Step 5:

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. The bake should be slightly puffed and firm but still soft in the center.

Step 6:

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a final touch of sweetness. Serve warm and enjoy!

How Long to Bake Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake

The baking time for this breakfast bake depends on your oven and the size of your baking dish. You want the custard to be set while keeping the croissants golden and flaky. Here’s a general guide:

• Individual Servings (small ramekins) – Bake for 20-22 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
• Medium-Sized Dish (8×8-inch pan) – Bake for 25-30 minutes.
• Large Dish (9×13-inch pan) – Bake for 30-35 minutes.

You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown, and the center is set but slightly soft. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean, without liquid custard.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, they can be stored easily and reheated for a delicious treat later.

• Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a low-temperature oven (300°F) for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 30-60 seconds.
• Freezer – Wrap the cooled bake tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

Tips for a Perfect Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake

For the best results, follow these simple tips to enhance both the flavor and texture of your bake:

• Use Day-Old Croissants – Slightly stale croissants absorb the custard better, preventing a soggy texture.
• Let the Custard Soak – Allow the croissants to sit for at least 10 minutes before baking to ensure they fully absorb the flavors.
• Enhance with Extras – Try adding white chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries for a unique twist.
• Serve with a Sauce – A drizzle of warm orange glaze, maple syrup, or even a dollop of whipped cream takes this dish to the next level.

This Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any special occasion or weekend brunch. Save this recipe to make again and again!

Print