Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake: A Citrusy Delight to Start Your Day
Start your morning with a burst of sunshine and flavor with this tantalizing Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake. Combining the irresistible flakiness of croissants with the bright, citrusy notes of orange marmalade, this dish is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast casserole. Whether you’re hosting a brunch with friends or simply craving a cozy morning treat, this breakfast bake is sure to impress. Get ready to awaken your taste buds and indulge in the ultimate breakfast indulgence!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s address some common queries about this delectable Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake:
Q: Can I use store-bought croissants for this recipe? A: Yes, store-bought croissants work perfectly for this recipe. However, if you have the time, homemade croissants can elevate the dish even further.
Q: Can I substitute orange jam for orange marmalade? A: While orange jam can be used as a substitute, orange marmalade adds a unique zestiness and texture to the dish. If using orange jam, consider adding a bit of orange zest to enhance the citrus flavor.
Q: Is almond extract necessary for this recipe? A: Almond extract adds a subtle nutty flavor that complements the citrus notes of the dish. However, if you prefer, you can omit it or substitute it with vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I prepare this breakfast bake ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the breakfast bake the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Simply bake it in the morning as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Now, let’s gather our ingredients and dive into the delightful world of Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake.
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
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Prepare Croissants and Marmalade
- Roughly chop the croissants into bite-sized pieces.
- Spread the orange marmalade evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
4. Add Eggs, Milk, and Flavorings
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Gradually pour in the whole milk and continue to beat until well combined.
- Stir in the orange zest and almond extract until evenly distributed.
5. Assemble Breakfast Bake
- Arrange the chopped croissants over the layer of orange marmalade in the baking dish.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the croissants, ensuring that all the pieces are coated.
6. Bake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the breakfast bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Slice into squares and serve warm, garnished with additional orange zest if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For added texture and flavor, you can sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans or almonds over the top of the breakfast bake before baking.
- Experiment with different flavors of marmalade or jam for a unique twist. Apricot or raspberry jam can also work well in this recipe.
Keto Version:
- To make a keto-friendly version of this breakfast bake, you can substitute the croissants with almond flour or coconut flour-based biscuits. Use a sugar-free orange marmalade or sweetener of your choice to reduce the carb content. Substitute the granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia. Use heavy cream instead of whole milk for a richer texture and lower carb count.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto version substitutions mentioned above, but you can also reduce the amount of orange marmalade used or use a sugar-free alternative to further reduce the carb content.
In conclusion, Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake is a delightful way to start your day on a sweet and citrusy note. With its buttery croissants, tangy orange marmalade, and creamy cheesecake-like filling, it’s a breakfast treat that’s sure to brighten your morning and leave you craving more.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate breakfast indulgence with this irresistible Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of coffee or serving it to loved ones, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy the flavors of sunshine and sweetness with every delightful bite!
