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Lemon Rolls Recipe

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4.6 from 20 reviews

A delicious and easy-to-make Berry Croissant Breakfast Bake featuring layers of flaky croissants soaked in a creamy custard with mixed berries. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, this recipe combines buttery croissants with sweet and tangy berries baked to golden perfection and topped with powdered sugar for an inviting presentation.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 6 croissants, slightly stale or a day old
  • 2 cups mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries)
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for garnish)
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon zest for a citrusy boost

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the croissant layers bake evenly without sticking.
  2. Cut and Arrange the Croissants: Slice the croissants into halves or quarters. Arrange them in the dish, allowing some pieces to sit higher than others for texture and custard flow.
  3. Add the Berries: Scatter the mixed berries evenly across the croissants. Mix colors for visual appeal and even fruit distribution.
  4. Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and granulated sugar until fully smooth. This custard creates the creamy base that binds the bake.
  5. Pour and Soak: Pour the custard slowly over the croissants, pressing gently so each piece absorbs the liquid. Allow the dish to rest for 20 minutes or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor and better texture.
  6. Bake Until Golden: Bake for 40 minutes, or until the top becomes golden and the custard is set but still softly jiggling in the center to keep it creamy.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar. Optionally add maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh berries for extra indulgence before serving.

Notes

  • Use slightly stale croissants as they absorb custard better and avoid sogginess.
  • Press gently after pouring custard to maintain flaky texture while ensuring deep absorption.
  • Add lemon zest for a bright, bakery-style citrus flavor contrast.
  • Frozen berries can be used directly without thawing to prevent excess moisture.
  • Do not overbake; leaving a slight center jiggle keeps the custard creamy and tender.
  • Heavy cream enriches the custard for a smooth and luxurious texture.
  • Mix berry colors for a visually stunning presentation suitable for brunch or holidays.
  • Overnight chilling enhances flavor depth and custard-like texture.
  • For a caramelized top, broil the bake for the last minute of cooking.
  • Use a glass baking dish for even heat distribution and better visual appeal.
  • Consider adding a cream cheese layer to create a richer, cheesecake-like variation.