Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Croissant Baked French Toast with Strawberries and Cream Cheese is the perfect combination of flaky, buttery croissants soaked in a sweet, custard-like mixture and baked to perfection. The strawberries add a fresh, tangy contrast, while the cream cheese brings a rich and creamy texture. It’s an effortless make-ahead dish that’s ideal for brunch, holidays, or weekend indulgence.

Ingredients

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

Croissants
Eggs
Milk
Heavy cream
Granulated sugar
Vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon
Cream cheese
Fresh strawberries
Powdered sugar (for topping)
Maple syrup (optional)

Directions

Croissant Baked French Toast With Strawberries and Cream Cheese

Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.
Slice the croissants in half and arrange them in the dish.
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissants, ensuring they absorb the liquid.
Dollop softened cream cheese between the croissant layers.
Scatter sliced strawberries over the top.
Let the mixture sit for at least 15 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator for a deeper flavor.
Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and set.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
Serve warm with maple syrup if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips between the croissant layers for a decadent twist.
Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds for added crunch.
Berry Mix: Swap or mix strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
Cinnamon Roll Style: Add a drizzle of cinnamon-sugar glaze on top.
Savory Version: Skip the sugar and strawberries, and add ham, cheese, and herbs instead.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 30-60 seconds.

FAQs

How do I prevent the croissants from becoming soggy?

Allow the custard mixture to soak in for at least 15 minutes, but avoid oversaturating the croissants.

Can I make this dish the night before?

Yes, assemble everything the night before and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess liquid.

What can I use instead of croissants?

Brioche, challah, or even French bread can work well.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use almond milk or coconut milk and dairy-free cream cheese as substitutes.

How do I make this dish less sweet?

Reduce the sugar and serve with fresh fruit instead of syrup.

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or almonds make a great addition.

What size baking dish should I use?

A 9×13-inch dish is ideal for this recipe.

How can I make it crispier on top?

Bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes or broil briefly for extra crispiness.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but full-fat cream cheese provides a richer texture.

Conclusion

Croissant Baked French Toast with Strawberries and Cream Cheese is a luxurious, yet easy-to-make breakfast or brunch treat. The combination of buttery croissants, rich cream cheese, and fresh strawberries creates an irresistible dish that will impress any crowd. Whether you prepare it fresh or make it ahead, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try different variations to suit your taste and enjoy a delicious homemade brunch!