Croissant Bread Pudding

Sharing is caring!

Imagine the perfect brunch dish that combines the buttery, flaky goodness of croissants with the warm, comforting texture of bread pudding.

This Croissant Bread Pudding is an indulgent dessert or breakfast treat that elevates your culinary game without requiring advanced baking skills.

The custard-soaked croissants create a creamy, luscious base, while the hints of cinnamon and vanilla fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

This recipe is the epitome of French-inspired comfort food, making it an ideal dish for special occasions, holidays, or a cozy Sunday brunch.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Croissant Bread Pudding is a game-changer for several reasons.

Firstly, it utilizes day-old or stale croissants, which not only helps reduce food waste but also ensures that you achieve that perfect texture.

The richness of the custard—created with eggs, milk, and whipping cream—works in perfect harmony with the lightness of the croissants, producing a wonderfully decadent dish.

The combination of sweet and fragrant vanilla, warm cinnamon, and the hint of salt brings out the best flavors, making each bite a delightful experience.

Whether served warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or chilled with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, this bread pudding is simply divine.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon (13 grams) butter, softened, to grease the pan
• 6-8 croissants (use day-old or stale croissants), about 8 cups when chopped
• 6 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup (240 ml) milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream
• ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt

How To Make Croissant Bread Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with the softened butter.

This will help prevent sticking and allow for easy serving once baked.

Step 2: Chop the Croissants

Next, tear or chop your day-old croissants into bite-sized pieces.

You want them to be roughly uniform so that they soak up the custard evenly.

Place these croissant pieces into the greased baking dish, spreading them out in an even layer.

Step 3: Make the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 6 large eggs until they are fully blended.

To the eggs, add in the milk and heavy whipping cream.

Whisk everything together until smooth.

Then, stir in the granulated sugar, pure vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt.

Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Croissants and Custard

Carefully pour the custard mixture over the chopped croissants in the baking dish.

Use a spatula or your hands to gently push down the croissants, ensuring that each piece is well coated in the custard.

Allow the mixture to sit for about 15-20 minutes.

This resting time will help the croissants absorb the custard fully, ensuring a moist and flavorful pudding.

Step 5: Bake

Once the resting time is up, place the dish in the preheated oven.

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread pudding is golden brown on top and set in the middle.

You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.

If the top gets too dark before the center is cooked, you can tent it with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.

Step 6: Serve

Once baked, remove the bread pudding from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes.

This will help it set even more, making it easier to slice and serve.

You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature, and it’s delightful when topped with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Expert Tips

• For the best flavor, use high-quality, buttery croissants.
• If time allows, prepare the croissant and custard mixture the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake the next morning for a breakfast treat that’s ready to go.
• Experiment with different flavorings by adding chocolate chips or dried fruit, such as raisins or cranberries, into the mixture.
• If you prefer a less rich pudding, substitute half the cream with more milk.

Variations and Customizations

• Add a dash of nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of warmth.
• Incorporate flavors like orange zest or almond extract for a citrusy aroma.
• Serve with a chocolate sauce drizzled on top for a luxurious twist.
• For a fruitier approach, layer in fresh berries or sliced bananas between the croissant pieces.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely because this dish is so delicious), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply pop slices in the microwave or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

You can also serve it cold, as it makes a lovely breakfast option straight from the fridge.

FAQ

Can I use fresh croissants instead of stale ones?

Yes, you can use fresh croissants, but stale croissants work better as they absorb the custard without becoming mushy.

If using fresh, you may want to dry them out slightly by toasting them before adding to the custard.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the croissant mixture and custard the night before and refrigerate it.

Just bake it in the morning for a delicious, warm breakfast.

Can I freeze Croissant Bread Pudding?

Yes, you can freeze the bread pudding.

Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

What toppings do you recommend for serving?

For a delightful serving experience, top with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup.

A dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of ice cream also works wonderfully for dessert.

Conclusion

This Croissant Bread Pudding recipe is not only a fantastic way to use up leftover croissants but also a delectable dish that will impress your family and friends.

The creamy custard, combined with the incredible flavors of vanilla and cinnamon, makes this a timeless classic that’s perfect for any occasion.

So, whether you’re serving it for brunch, dessert, or a cozy night in, you can’t go wrong with this delightful treat.

Enjoy every delicious bite!

Print