Blueberry Cream Cheese Croissant Casserole
Blueberry Cream Cheese Croissant Casserole is a rich and indulgent breakfast or brunch dish featuring flaky buttery croissants soaked in a luscious custard, layered with creamy tangy cream cheese and bursting fresh blueberries. Easy to prepare ahead, this casserole offers a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors with a tender, golden-baked texture that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy morning treat.
- Author: Barbara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes (plus soak time if refrigerated overnight)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Can be made gluten-free with substitutions
Main Ingredients
- 4 large fresh croissants, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz cream cheese, cut into small chunks
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- Prepare the Croissants: Tear the fresh croissants into bite-sized pieces and evenly place them in a greased baking dish, forming an even layer as the casserole base.
- Add Cream Cheese and Blueberries: Dot the croissant pieces with small chunks of cream cheese, then scatter fresh blueberries evenly over the top to balance creamy and fruity flavors in every bite.
- Make the Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and optional lemon zest until fully combined to create a smooth custard.
- Pour Custard Over Croissants: Carefully pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants, gently pressing down with a spatula to ensure all pieces absorb the custard. Let the casserole sit for at least 15 minutes or refrigerate overnight for maximum custard absorption.
- Bake Until Golden and Set: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 40-45 minutes until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. Allow it to cool slightly before serving for perfect slicing.
Notes
- Use day-old croissants for better custard absorption and a creamier texture.
- Whisk custard ingredients until just combined to avoid excess air and achieve a smooth bake.
- Distribute cream cheese and blueberries evenly for balanced flavor in every serving.
- Allow the casserole to soak in custard before baking to enhance flavor and texture.
- Check doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of casserole)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: blueberry, cream cheese, croissant, casserole, breakfast, brunch, make-ahead, custard, baked