Blueberry Croissant Puff: A Deliciously Flaky and Sweet Breakfast Casserole

If you’re looking for an indulgent breakfast or brunch dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying, look no further than Blueberry Croissant Puff. This dish combines the flakiness of buttery croissants with the sweetness of fresh blueberries and the creamy texture of a custard-like filling. The best part? It’s simple to make and perfect for a weekend morning or a special occasion.

What is a Blueberry Croissant Puff?

A Blueberry Croissant Puff is essentially a baked casserole-style dish made by layering croissant pieces and fresh blueberries, then soaking them in a creamy, sweet custard mixture. It’s like the perfect fusion between a croissant and a breakfast casserole, with a light and airy texture that’s sure to impress. With its crispy top and tender center, this dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser.

This recipe is a great way to use up leftover croissants or any extra blueberries you might have on hand. Plus, it’s flexible! You can add other fruits like strawberries or raspberries, or even add a touch of lemon zest to elevate the flavor. This Blueberry Croissant Puff makes a delicious breakfast, brunch, or dessert and can be enjoyed by all ages.

Ingredients for Blueberry Croissant Puff

For the Puff:

• 4 large croissants, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray. This will help the croissant puff come out easily and prevent it from sticking to the dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Croissant Base

Next, cut the croissants into 1-inch pieces. Spread the croissant pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish. Be sure to cover the bottom of the dish completely with the croissants. You can also gently press them down to ensure the croissants fit snugly.

Step 3: Add the Blueberries

Once the croissant base is ready, sprinkle the blueberries evenly over the croissant pieces. This ensures every bite will have that delicious fruity burst. If you’re using frozen blueberries, make sure they’re thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture in the dish.

Step 4: Cream Cheese Mixture

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. This mixture will give the puff a rich, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the croissants. The cream cheese base is key to achieving that custardy consistency.

Step 5: Make the Egg Custard

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, ground cinnamon, and salt. This egg mixture will be poured over the croissants and blueberries to create the custard layer. The cinnamon adds warmth and a lovely fragrance to the dish, complementing the blueberries and croissants perfectly.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

Once your cream cheese mixture and egg custard are ready, pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant pieces and blueberries. Use a spoon to press down gently on the croissants so that they soak up the custard and cream cheese mixture. Be sure that all the croissant pieces are covered in the custard for an even bake.

Step 7: Add the Butter and Sugar Topping

Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the croissant puff to enhance the richness and flavor. If you like a slightly sweet, crunchy top, sprinkle a tablespoon of granulated sugar over the top of the dish. This will give the Blueberry Croissant Puff a delightful crisp finish once it bakes.

Step 8: Baking the Puff

Bake the Blueberry Croissant Puff in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes. The puff should turn golden brown on top, and the custard should set. If the top is browning too quickly, cover the dish with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Let it Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the Blueberry Croissant Puff from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. The puff will firm up as it cools, making it easier to slice and serve. For extra sweetness, you can dust it with powdered sugar or drizzle some maple syrup on top before serving.

Why You’ll Love Blueberry Croissant Puff

This dish is the epitome of comfort food. The combination of croissants, blueberries, and a creamy custard makes for a delicious and indulgent breakfast. Whether you’re preparing it for a weekend brunch or a family gathering, the Blueberry Croissant Puff is sure to become a favorite.

What makes it even better is how simple it is to make. You can prepare it the night before and simply bake it in the morning for an effortless yet impressive breakfast. It’s perfect for those days when you want something special without spending too much time in the kitchen.

The blueberries add a burst of freshness, while the croissants provide a buttery and slightly sweet base. The cinnamon enhances the flavor, making every bite even more delicious. And the cream cheese filling? It’s the secret to creating that luscious custard-like texture that holds everything together.

What Are the Best Pairings for Blueberry Croissant Puff?

Blueberry Croissant Puff is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages. Here are some great pairing ideas:

1. Bacon or Sausage: Add a savory component to your breakfast with crispy bacon or sausages. The salty flavors complement the sweetness of the puff.
2. Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside more fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries, raspberries, or oranges, for a light and refreshing balance.
3. Coffee or Tea: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a warm mug of herbal tea is perfect to sip alongside your Blueberry Croissant Puff.

Blueberry Croissant Puff FAQs

1. Can I use frozen croissants instead of fresh ones?
Yes! Frozen croissants work just as well as fresh ones. Just make sure they are fully thawed and cut into pieces before using them in the dish.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, just bake it as directed.

3. Can I use a different type of berry?
Yes, you can substitute the blueberries with other berries such as raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries. You can even mix different berries for a unique twist.

4. Is this dish gluten-free?
No, this recipe contains regular all-purpose flour. However, you can try using gluten-free croissants and flour to make it gluten-free.

5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use non-dairy milk, such as almond or coconut milk.

Conclusion

The Blueberry Croissant Puff is the perfect breakfast or brunch dish to impress your guests or enjoy as a treat with your family. It combines the richness of croissants, the tartness of blueberries, and the smooth, sweet flavor of a custard filling to create an unforgettable meal. Plus, with minimal prep time and a simple baking process, it’s an easy recipe that anyone can master. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this Blueberry Croissant Puff is sure to become a favorite!

Print