Name: Berry Bliss Croissant Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: PT-491637H16M24S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 large croissants, sliced into 1-inch cubes (10 packed cups); 4 cups mixed berries (raspberries, blackberries, blueberries); 14 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar; 6 eggs, room temperature; 2 cups half-and-half, room temperature; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 teaspoons lemon zest; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 ounces cream cheese, softened (for glaze); 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted; 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze); 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for glaze)

Why You’ll Love Berry Bliss Croissant Casserole Recipe

Perfect for making ahead—prep the night before and bake in the morning
A delicious way to use up leftover croissants
Bursting with fresh berries and bright lemon flavor
Creamy, custardy texture with crispy croissant edges
Ideal for brunches, holidays, or weekend treats
Crowd-pleasing and easy to serve
Customizable with your favorite berries or add-ins
Simple, wholesome ingredients
The glaze adds a sweet, tangy finishing touch
Looks impressive without being complicated

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Casserole:
8 large croissants, sliced into 1-inch cubes (10 packed cups)
4 cups mixed berries (raspberries, blackberries, blueberries)

For the Custard:
14 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
6 eggs, room temperature
2 cups half-and-half, room temperature
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Lemon Glaze:
2 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions

Toast Croissants: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread croissant cubes on a large baking sheet and toast for 7–10 minutes until golden. Let cool.
Make Custard: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, half-and-half, lemon juice, zest, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
Assemble: Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Layer half the croissant cubes and berries. Pour half the custard over. Repeat with the remaining croissants, berries, and custard. Press gently to submerge the croissants.
Refrigerate: Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight to allow the custard to absorb.
Bake: Remove from the fridge and let sit at room temperature while preheating the oven to 350°F. Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 15 minutes until the custard is set and top is golden.
Make Glaze: While the casserole bakes, mix glaze ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
Serve: Drizzle the glaze over the warm casserole before serving. Optionally dust with powdered sugar.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes + overnight chilling
Calories: Approximately 620 kcal per serving

Variations

Berry Swap: Use strawberries, cherries, or just one type of berry for a different twist.
Citrus Twist: Swap lemon juice and zest for orange for a sweeter, warmer flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped almonds or pecans between the layers for texture.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white chocolate instead of lemon glaze for a richer dessert.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and milk alternatives like almond or oat milk.
Mini Portions: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings.
Brioche or Challah: Substitute croissants with brioche or challah bread.
Spiced Custard: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozier flavor profile.
Savory Twist: Skip the berries and glaze, and add ham and cheese for a savory option.
Topping Ideas: Serve with whipped cream, Greek yogurt, or extra fresh berries.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30–60 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through. For best texture, avoid overheating.

FAQs

What type of croissants work best for this recipe?

Day-old croissants are ideal because they’re slightly dry and soak up the custard better.

Can I use frozen berries?

Yes, frozen berries work well. No need to thaw—just add them straight in.

Can I make this without refrigerating overnight?

It’s best chilled overnight for maximum flavor and texture, but you can let it sit for at least 1 hour if you’re short on time.

Can I use regular milk instead of half-and-half?

Yes, though the texture may be slightly less rich. Whole milk is the best substitute.

Is this more of a breakfast or dessert?

It works great as both! Sweet enough for dessert, but perfect for brunch or a special breakfast.

Can I prepare this further in advance?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead of baking.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, freeze it unbaked for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

What’s the best way to cut the croissants?

Slice them into 1-inch cubes for even soaking and texture.

How do I know the custard is set?

The center should be slightly jiggly but not wet. A knife inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.

Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, the casserole is still delicious without the glaze, though it adds a nice sweet-tart finish.

Conclusion

Berry Bliss Croissant Casserole is a make-ahead marvel that combines fresh berries, buttery croissants, and creamy lemon-scented custard into a comforting and elegant dish. Whether you’re planning a holiday brunch or treating yourself on the weekend, this casserole is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation.