Orange Cranberry Croissant Bake

There’s something truly magical about the combination of flavors in Orange Cranberry Croissant Bake. As autumn rolls around, I find myself drawn to the comforting scents of oranges and cranberries filling the kitchen. This dish has become a staple for our family gatherings, especially during Thanksgiving when we all crave something warm and inviting. When I first made this for a brunch with friends, I was amazed at how easily it came together. The crispy croissants soaked in a rich custard flavored with fresh orange juice and tart cranberries create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Every bite reminds me of cozy mornings spent around the table, sharing laughter and stories. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; it works wonderfully as a breakfast dish or even a delightful dessert.

It’s also a crowd-pleaser, requiring very little effort to impress guests. If you’re looking for a way to elevate your brunch game this fall, let me show you how to make this delicious Orange Cranberry Croissant Bake.

Ingredients Required for Orange Cranberry Croissant Bake

When it comes to the ingredients for Orange Cranberry Croissant Bake, each component plays an essential role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors. The key players here are mini croissants, which provide the base and texture, and a blend of orange juice and fresh cranberries that deliver that seasonal zing. Together, these ingredients create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to please any crowd.

• 10 mini croissants – Sliced into pieces, these flaky pastries become the heart of the dish, soaking up the custard.
• ½ cup orange juice – Freshly squeezed adds a vibrant flavor and sweetness to the custard.
• ½ cup fresh cranberries – Their tartness perfectly balances the sweetness of the granulated sugar.
• ¾ cup half and half or whole milk – This creamy element creates a rich custard that envelops the croissants.
• 2 large eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients together, providing structure and richness.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla – Enhances the flavor profile with a subtle warmth.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar – The sweetness that complements the tart cranberries.
• Powdered sugar for dusting – A finishing touch that adds a hint of sweetness and beautiful presentation.

Step by Step Guide for Orange Cranberry Croissant Bake

Making the Orange Cranberry Croissant Bake is a simple process that brings warmth and joy to your kitchen. Let’s dive into these easy steps to create this delightful dish. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together!

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This initial step ensures that your Orange Cranberry Croissant Bake will cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown color.

2. Butter a 9-inch by 7-inch (or 8-inch square) baking pan to prevent the croissants from sticking. The butter will also enhance the flavor of your dish.

3. Arrange the slices of mini croissants in a single layer on the bottom of the dish. Make sure they are snugly placed to absorb the custard well.

4. Drizzle half of the orange juice over the croissants. This adds moisture and infuses the croissants with that bright citrus flavor.

5. Sprinkle half of the fresh cranberries over the croissant slices, giving them a sweet and tart burst in every bite.

6. Now, it’s time to create a second layer of croissant slices. This adds depth and texture to your bake.

7. Drizzle the remaining orange juice evenly over the second layer of croissants.

8. Add the remaining fresh cranberries on top, ensuring each slice gets a generous scattering of fruit.

9. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the half and half, eggs, vanilla, and granulated sugar. This mixture is your custard and will soak into the croissants.

10. Pour the custard mixture over the croissants, allowing it to seep through the layers. You want to ensure that every piece of croissant is coated.

11. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 33 minutes. Watch for the top to turn golden brown and the croissants to become crispy while the custard layer sets.

12. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature before serving. This cooling time helps the custard to firm up a bit.

Things Worth Knowing

Customization Ideas

There are so many ways to customize your Orange Cranberry Croissant Bake to suit your taste or occasion. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:

• Fruit Variations: Feel free to mix in other seasonal fruits like apples or pears for a different flavor profile.
• Nuts for Crunch: Add some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added nutrition.
• Spice it Up: Incorporate warm spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg into the custard for an aromatic twist.
• Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter version, fold in some chocolate chips before pouring the custard over the croissants.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with a vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it the night before and refrigerate overnight before baking to save time.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free croissants or bread to cater to dietary preferences.

Serve This Orange Cranberry Croissant Bake With

Serving your Orange Cranberry Croissant Bake can be just as delightful as making it. Here are some great pairing suggestions:

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and a refreshing contrast.
• Yogurt: Serve with a side of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and protein.
• Maple Syrup: Drizzle some maple syrup on top for an indulgent touch, balancing the tartness of the cranberries.
• Coffee or Tea: This bake pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or tea, enhancing the flavors even more.
• Brunch Buffet: It’s an excellent centerpiece for a brunch buffet, alongside quiches, salads, and pastries.
• Holiday Feasts: Serve it as a dessert option at holiday feasts for a sweet ending.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Orange Cranberry Croissant Bake is a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. It combines the comforting textures of croissants with the zesty brightness of oranges and tartness of cranberries, making it a delightful dish for any gathering. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s not only delicious but also an easy and impressive addition to your menu. Enjoy the warmth and cheer it brings to your table!

Orange Cranberry Croissant Bake

Craving something warm and inviting? The Orange Cranberry Croissant Bake combines flaky croissants, tart cranberries, and bright orange juice for a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It's a must-try this fall!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 5 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Frying Pan
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 10 pieces mini croissants sliced
• ½ cup orange juice
• ½ cup fresh cranberries
• ¾ cup half and half or whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon vanilla
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• to taste for dusting powdered sugar

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This initial step ensures that your Orange Cranberry Croissant Bake will cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown color.
• Butter a 9-inch by 7-inch (or 8-inch square) baking pan to prevent the croissants from sticking. The butter will also enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Arrange the slices of mini croissants in a single layer on the bottom of the dish. Make sure they are snugly placed to absorb the custard well.
• Drizzle half of the orange juice over the croissants. This adds moisture and infuses the croissants with that bright citrus flavor.
• Sprinkle half of the fresh cranberries over the croissant slices, giving them a sweet and tart burst in every bite.
• Now, it’s time to create a second layer of croissant slices. This adds depth and texture to your bake.
• Drizzle the remaining orange juice evenly over the second layer of croissants.
• Add the remaining fresh cranberries on top, ensuring each slice gets a generous scattering of fruit.
• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the half and half, eggs, vanilla, and granulated sugar. This mixture is your custard and will soak into the croissants.
• Pour the custard mixture over the croissants, allowing it to seep through the layers. You want to ensure that every piece of croissant is coated.
• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 33 minutes. Watch for the top to turn golden brown and the croissants to become crispy while the custard layer sets.
• Once done, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature before serving. This cooling time helps the custard to firm up a bit.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the bake before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready to serve.
• Variations: Experiment with different fruits or add nuts for texture.
• Serving: Pair with yogurt or fresh whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare it the night before and bake in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.

Keyword Croissant Bake Recipe, Fall breakfast recipes, Orange Cranberry Bake, Thanksgiving Desserts

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Meet Penny Porter

I bring the energy to our cooking sessions. I don’t have a “specialty” because I love it all I’m just as happy kneading dough as I am stirring a spicy curry. My favorite part of being on this team is the variety. One day we’re making pasta from scratch, and the next we’re grilling outdoors. I love the fast-paced creative process and am always the first one to grab an apron when a new idea pops up.