Pin A decadent breakfast loaf combining flaky croissants, crisp bacon, and a luscious maple custard is perfect for brunch or as a special treat.
I made this loaf for my family on a Sunday morning, and the aroma of maple and bacon filled the house. Everyone kept asking for seconds, enjoying each rich, buttery slice.
Ingredients
- Large croissants: 6 (preferably day-old), cut into 2-inch pieces
- Thick-cut bacon: 8 slices
- Large eggs: 4
- Whole milk: 1 cup
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup
- Pure maple syrup: 1/2 cup
- Brown sugar: 1/4 cup, packed
- Vanilla extract: 2 tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1/2 tsp
- Fine sea salt: 1/4 tsp
- Unsalted butter (for topping): 2 tbsp, melted
- Maple syrup (for topping): 2 tbsp
- Brown sugar (for topping): 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Prep Oven & Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan. Line with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- Cook Bacon:
- Cook bacon in skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels, chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix Custard:
- In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, maple syrup, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until combined.
- Combine Croissants & Bacon:
- Gently fold croissant pieces and chopped bacon into custard mixture until all pieces are coated.
- Fill Pan & Soak:
- Transfer mixture to prepared pan, press down lightly to compact. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Make Topping:
- Mix melted butter, maple syrup, and brown sugar. Drizzle evenly over top of loaf.
- Bake:
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, until golden brown and set in center. If top browns quickly, tent with foil last 15 minutes.
- Cool & Serve:
- Cool in pan for 15 minutes. Use parchment to lift loaf out. Slice, serve warm, optionally with extra maple syrup.
Pin Sharing slices after church with the kids, everyone poured on extra maple and grinned at the crispy bacon inside while sipping coffee. It quickly became a favorite comfort breakfast.
Required Tools
To make this loaf, you will need a 9x5-inch loaf pan, mixing bowls, a whisk, a skillet, parchment paper, and a sharp knife.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 410 calories, 26 g total fat, 35 g carbohydrates, and 11 g protein.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with fresh berries, whipped cream, or drizzle with extra maple syrup for a full brunch spread. For individual portions, bake in muffin tins and adjust bake time to 25–30 minutes.
Pin This recipe brings bakery-worthy comfort right to your table. Enjoy every flaky, syrupy bite with loved ones.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use fresh croissants instead of day-old?
Day-old croissants absorb custard better, but fresh can be used, though the texture may be less dense.
- → Is there a vegetarian alternative?
Yes, omit the bacon or substitute with turkey bacon. Add a bit more salt to enhance flavor when omitting meat.
- → What toppings pair well with this loaf?
Fresh berries, whipped cream, extra maple syrup, or toasted nuts add texture and flavor contrast.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, assemble the loaf and refrigerate overnight; bake fresh in the morning for optimal texture.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Cool completely, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat individual slices for serving.
- → Are there nut-free options?
Yes, simply omit any added pecans or walnuts. Always check ingredient labels for allergens in croissants and bacon.