Description

This Cranberry French Toast Bake is a delightful holiday brunch dish featuring buttery croissants soaked in a rich custard made of eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream, infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Topped with a tangy cranberry-orange compote, this make-ahead casserole is perfect for festive gatherings, offering a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

French Toast Bake

8 medium croissants
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon orange zest

Cranberry Orange Compote

1.5 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)
1 cup sugar
Juice of 1 orange
1/2 tablespoon orange zest

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Instructions

Prepare the French Toast Base: Slice the croissants into thick pieces and place them evenly in a greased baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, sugar, and orange zest until fully combined.
Soak the Croissants: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissants, pressing down gently to ensure the croissants absorb the custard. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
Make the Cranberry Orange Compote: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Bake the French Toast: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish and bake the soaked croissants for 50-60 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
Serve: Let the French toast bake cool for a few minutes before topping generously with the warm cranberry orange compote. Serve immediately for a cozy, delicious breakfast or brunch.

Notes

For a richer dish, use brioche instead of croissants.
Soaking the croissants overnight improves flavor and texture.
Fresh or frozen cranberries can be used for the compote.
Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or chopped nuts for garnish.