Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake

Imagine waking up to the aroma of sweet citrus mingling with buttery croissants—it’s breakfast heaven! Our Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake combines the richness of cream cheese with the tangy sweetness of orange marmalade, all nestled in a custardy base. This dish is like a delightful cross between bread pudding and baked French toast, sure to make your morning special. Whether you’re using up stale croissants (if such a thing exists) or fresh ones, this bake is an irresistible treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a breakfast dream come true. It’s incredibly easy to put together, offers a unique flavor profile with its sweet and tangy citrus notes, and makes use of any extra croissants you might have. Plus, it’s a showstopper for brunch gatherings or a cozy family breakfast.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Electric mixer
• Large mixing bowl
• 2-quart baking dish (an 8-inch square dish works well)
• Foil

Ingredients

• 4 croissants, roughly chopped
• 1 cup orange marmalade
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• Zest from one orange
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 2-quart baking dish (an 8-inch square dish works well) with butter or nonstick spray.
2. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the granulated sugar and beat until fully incorporated. Then, add the eggs, whole milk, orange zest, and almond extract, mixing until well combined.
4. Place the chopped croissants in the prepared baking dish. Distribute dollops of orange marmalade among the croissants, stirring slightly if needed to spread it out.
5. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the croissants. Cover the dish tightly with foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let the bake cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if you like, and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• For a deeper flavor, let the mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the croissants to soak up the custard before baking.

Additional Tips or Variations

• Try adding a handful of chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for extra crunch.
• Swap the orange marmalade for another fruit preserve if you’re feeling adventurous.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This indulgent breakfast bake is rich in flavor, with a balance of carbs from the croissants, protein from the eggs, and a touch of healthy fats from the cream cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the dish the night before and bake it in the morning. Just be sure to cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese? You can, but the texture and richness might be slightly different.

What can I use instead of almond extract? Vanilla extract is a good substitute if you prefer.

Conclusion

This Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake is a delightful way to start the day, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. I invite you to try it out and share your experience. Did you try any variations? Let me know how it turned out!