Why You’ll Love This Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake
- Perfect for Sharing: A crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
- Bright and Citrusy: The orange flavor is fresh and uplifting.
- Buttery and Flaky: Croissants make this bake irresistible.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it the night before for a no-fuss morning.
Tools You’ll Need
- Zester or fine grater for the orange zest
- Baking dish (9×13 inches or similar size)
- Whisk and mixing bowls
Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Description
This Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake is a delightful twist on your typical breakfast casserole. Buttery croissants soak up a creamy orange custard, while fresh orange zest and a sweet glaze add a bright and refreshing touch. It’s perfect for brunch gatherings, holiday mornings, or a weekend treat for the family.
Ingredients
For the Bake
- 6 large croissants: Torn into large chunks.
- 4 large eggs: Lightly beaten.
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) whole milk: For a rich custard base.
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream: Adds extra creaminess.
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar: For sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest: Freshly grated.
- ½ cup (120ml) orange juice: Freshly squeezed for the best flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the orange flavor.
For the Glaze
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar: Sifted.
- 2 tablespoons orange juice: Freshly squeezed.
- 1 teaspoon orange zest: For a citrusy punch.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Croissants
- Tear the croissants into large chunks and arrange them in a greased baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Custard
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
Step 3: Assemble the Bake
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissant pieces, ensuring all pieces are well soaked.
- Gently press down the croissants to help them absorb the liquid.
- Cover the dish with foil and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for a make-ahead option.
Step 4: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the dish, covered, for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth.
Step 6: Serve
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm croissant bake before serving.
- Garnish with extra orange zest if desired.
Notes
- Use Fresh Oranges: Freshly squeezed juice and zest make a big difference in flavor.
- Day-Old Croissants: Slightly stale croissants absorb the custard better.
- Make It Extra Fancy: Add a handful of fresh berries or a sprinkle of sliced almonds on top before baking.
- Don’t Skip the Glaze: The sweet citrus glaze ties all the flavors together.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time (optional): 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh fruit salad or yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
- Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea for the perfect brunch spread.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm individual portions in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use pre-made orange juice?
A: Yes, but fresh orange juice adds a brighter, more natural flavor.
Q2: Can I add other flavors?
A: Absolutely! Try adding a splash of almond extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a unique twist.
Q3: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Substitute the milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free croissants.
Conclusion: A Citrus-Inspired Delight!
This Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake is the perfect combination of buttery, flaky croissants and bright citrus flavor. It’s a dish that feels fancy but is simple to prepare—ideal for any breakfast or brunch table.
Did you make this recipe? Share your photos and tag us—we’d love to see your creations!
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes (optional)
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 310
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 1g
Enjoy every sweet and tangy bite!
