Why You’ll Love Korean Garlic Bread Inspired Croissant Bake Recipe
-
Combines sweet and savory flavors in every bite
-
Uses store-bought croissants for convenience
-
Creamy filling contrasts perfectly with crispy tops
-
Simple ingredients with impressive results
-
Great for brunch gatherings or make-ahead breakfasts
-
Easily customizable to suit your taste
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
croissants
cream cheese
granulated sugar
heavy cream
unsalted butter
garlic, minced
eggs
milk
honey
fresh parsley, chopped
salt
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish.
-
Slice the croissants in half horizontally, leaving them slightly attached if desired. Arrange them snugly in the prepared dish.
-
In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, and a small amount of heavy cream until smooth and fluffy.
-
Spread or pipe the cream cheese mixture generously inside each croissant.
-
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook gently until fragrant, being careful not to brown it. Remove from heat and stir in honey and a pinch of salt.
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined. Slowly pour in the slightly cooled garlic butter mixture while whisking.
-
Pour the custard evenly over the filled croissants, allowing it to soak into all the layers.
-
Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top.
-
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the custard is set.
-
Let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to settle.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Variations
-
Add shredded mozzarella to the cream cheese filling for a stretchier texture.
-
Stir a spoonful of sweetened condensed milk into the filling for extra sweetness.
-
Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top before baking for a crisp, savory crust.
-
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
-
Substitute brioche or challah for a slightly different texture and richness.
-
Top with a light dusting of powdered sugar after baking for a bakery-style finish.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place portions in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Microwaving for 30 to 45 seconds works for convenience, though the texture will be softer.
For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.
FAQs
Can I use day-old croissants?
Yes, slightly stale croissants work very well because they absorb the custard without becoming overly soggy.
Is this dish more sweet or savory?
It has a balanced flavor profile. You can adjust the sugar or honey to make it sweeter or reduce them for a more savory version.
Can I assemble it ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh the next day.
What type of cream cheese should I use?
Full-fat cream cheese provides the richest flavor and creamiest texture, but reduced-fat can also be used successfully.
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
You can substitute the eggs with a mixture of heavy cream thickened with a small amount of cornstarch, though the texture will be slightly different.
How do I know when it’s fully baked?
The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp, and the center should be set but still tender.
Can I make it less garlicky?
Absolutely. Simply reduce the amount of minced garlic to suit your preference.
What size baking dish works best?
An 8×8-inch baking dish or a similar medium-sized dish works well for about 6 croissants.
Can I add cheese on top?
Yes, adding shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top before baking creates a deliciously crisp and cheesy finish.
Is it best served warm or at room temperature?
It’s best served warm when the filling is creamy and the tops are crisp, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
Conclusion
This Korean Garlic Bread Inspired Croissant Bake is a delightful fusion of flaky pastry, creamy filling, and aromatic garlic butter custard. It’s easy enough for a cozy weekend breakfast yet impressive enough for entertaining. With its irresistible sweet-and-savory flavor and golden, crisp finish, this dish is sure to become a favorite addition to your brunch rotation.
