Banana Croissant Casserole Recipe – Creamy, Comforting, and Easy to Bake

Some recipes just feel like a hug in a baking dish. Banana Croissant Casserole is one of them. Imagine flaky, buttery croissants baked with ripe bananas, a custard-like filling, and a golden, slightly crisp top. It’s the kind of breakfast casserole that’s cozy enough for Sunday mornings but pretty enough to serve at brunch when you want to impress without stressing.

It also has that home-baked aroma that fills the kitchen and makes everyone wander in asking, “What smells so good?” And honestly, it’s not complicated. A few everyday ingredients, some ripe bananas (perfect use for the ones on the counter getting spotty), and you’re on your way to a sweet, creamy bake that feels indulgent but approachable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 5–6 buttery croissants (day-old is best)
• 3 ripe bananas (sliced)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup sugar (adjust if bananas are very sweet)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
• 2 tbsp butter (melted)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Maple syrup or caramel drizzle (optional for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the dish – Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Tear or slice the croissants into chunks and scatter half across the bottom.
2. Layer the bananas – Spread half the banana slices on top of the croissants. Repeat with another layer of croissants and bananas.
3. Make the custard – In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
4. Assemble – Pour the custard evenly over the croissant and banana layers. Gently press everything down so the croissants soak up the liquid.
5. Soak – Let it sit for at least 20–30 minutes (or cover and refrigerate overnight for a make-ahead version).
6. Bake – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until golden and set in the middle.
7. Serve – Let it cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup or caramel before serving.

Time & Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Soak Time: 30 minutes (or overnight)
• Bake Time: 40–45 minutes
• Total Time: About 1.5 hours (with soak)
• Servings: 6–8

Kitchen Tools Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Spatula
• Knife for slicing bananas

Recipe Notes

• Croissants: Slightly stale croissants absorb the custard better. Fresh ones will work but yield a softer texture.
• Bananas: Very ripe bananas add more natural sweetness and flavor.
• Sweetness: Taste your bananas before deciding how much sugar to add.
• Overnight option: Prepping the casserole the night before makes mornings easier.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the whole casserole in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect

• Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
• Sprinkle chocolate chips in the layers for a dessert-style version.
• For a lighter take, use half-and-half instead of cream.
• Don’t rush the soak time—it ensures every croissant bite is moist and custardy.

How to Serve

This casserole works for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert:

• Serve warm with maple syrup or caramel drizzle.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream for a sweeter touch.
• Pair with coffee or tea for a cozy morning.
• Serve with fresh berries for a lighter balance.

Health Benefits

It might be rich, but there’s a little goodness here too:

• Bananas provide potassium and fiber.
• Eggs give protein and essential nutrients.
• Croissants + milk offer energy and calcium.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Banana Croissant Casserole is one of those recipes that feels both comforting and a little fancy. It’s easy enough to whip up on a weekend, but special enough to serve at brunch or during the holidays. The mix of buttery croissants, sweet bananas, and creamy custard creates a dish that always feels warm and welcoming. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or reheated the next day, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite.