Orange Cream Cheese Croissant Bake

 Orange Cream Cheese Croissant Bake

4 large croissants

1 c. orange marmalade

1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese

1/2 c. sugar

2 large eggs

1 c. whole milk

Zest from 1 orange

1/2 tsp. almond extract

Set out the cream cheese to bring it to room temperature.  Cut the croissants into 1” cubes.  Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.  Grease a 2 quart baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.  Zest the orange and set the zest aside.

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 3 minutes.  Add the sugar and beat until fully incorporated, then add the eggs, milk, orange zest, and almond extract and again mix to combine.

Place the chopped croissants in a prepared baking dish and place dollops of marmalade among them.  Pour the cream cheese mixture over the croissants, then cover the dish tightly with foil.  

Bake for 35 minutes, then uncover and bake until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 15 more minutes.  Let cool slightly before serving.