Lemon Infused Croissant Pudding

Name: Lemon Infused Croissant Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 6 large croissants, preferably day-old; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 large eggs; 1 cup granulated sugar; Zest and juice of 2 lemons; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Homemade Dessert Recipes

When I first made Lemon Infused Croissant Pudding, I was blown away by how a few simple ingredients could transform into something so decadent. The buttery croissants soak up the creamy lemon custard, creating a delightful dish that’s perfect for brunch or dessert. I love the balance of sweetness and citrus, and the aroma that fills my kitchen is simply irresistible. This pudding has quickly become a family favorite, and I can't wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-27T12:58:28.224Z

After trying various bread puddings, I realized that adding lemon zest and juice can elevate the flavors dramatically. The sourness of the lemon perfectly cuts through the rich, buttery croissants, resulting in a balance that leaves you wanting more. My secret is to let the pudding rest for a bit after baking, as this allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

One of my favorite tips is to use day-old croissants, which have the ideal texture for soaking up that delicious lemon custard. Trust me, this dish is worth every bit of effort, and each bite will have your guests raving about it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright lemon flavor that refreshes the palate
Rich, creamy custard with flaky croissant layers
Easy to make and perfect for brunch gatherings

Understanding the Role of Croissants

Using day-old croissants is key to achieving the perfect texture in Lemon Infused Croissant Pudding. Fresh croissants tend to be too soft and may disintegrate when soaked in custard. Day-old croissants, on the other hand, have absorbed some moisture and are sturdier, allowing them to soak up the custard while still maintaining their shape. Aim for a mix of buttery and flaky layers for a rich final product.

If you're short on time or don't have croissants, you can substitute them with brioche or even challah bread. These alternatives will still provide that delightful texture and absorb the custard effectively. However, keep an eye on the soaking time, as they may absorb liquid differently than croissants, altering the final outcome.

Perfecting the Custard

The custard is the heart of this dish, and achieving the right balance is crucial. Make sure to whisk the ingredients just until combined; overmixing can introduce unnecessary air, leading to a less creamy texture after baking. You want a smooth custard without any lumps. It's also important to let the mixture rest for a few minutes before pouring over the croissants, which helps in evenly distributing the flavors.

For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of limoncello to the custard mix. These small additions can elevate your Lemon Infused Croissant Pudding significantly. Always remember, though, that the primary flavor should remain that bright, fresh lemony note, so don’t overpower it.

Ingredients

For the Pudding

6 large croissants, preferably day-old
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
Zest and juice of 2 lemons
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

These simple ingredients create a delightful and comforting dish!

Steps

Prepare the Croissants

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the croissants into large chunks and place them in a buttered baking dish.

Make the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Combine and Soak

Pour the custard mixture over the croissants, ensuring they are well coated. Allow the croissants to soak for about 15 minutes.

Bake the Pudding

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes or until set and golden brown on top.

Let the pudding cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick of flavor, try adding a splash of limoncello to the custard mixture or topping the pudding with a lemon glaze after baking.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra touch, serve your Lemon Infused Croissant Pudding warm, topped with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkling of fresh berries adds both color and a refreshing contrast, enhancing the pudding's citrus notes. If you want to make it even fancier, try a lemon sauce made from lemon juice, sugar, and butter cooked until thickened to drizzle over each serving.

Pairing this dish with a light, herbal tea or a glass of sparkling wine can elevate your brunch or dessert experience. The effervescence will complement the creamy custard and the zesty lemon flavor nicely, creating a delightful afternoon treat.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning on making this dessert ahead of time, you can prepare the custard and croissant mixture the night before. Just cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and let it sit in the fridge overnight. This allows the croissants to soak thoroughly, resulting in an even more flavorful dish. Before baking, give the mixture a gentle stir to redistribute any unabsorbed custard.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply cover the pudding with foil to prevent drying out and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Be mindful not to overbake, as this can make the pudding lose its creamy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of bread?

Yes, brioche or any other rich bread can work well, but the texture may differ.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pudding the night before and bake it just before serving.

→ What toppings go well with this pudding?

Fresh whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even vanilla ice cream make excellent toppings.