Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is the perfect blend of elegance and ease. It takes minimal prep time, uses everyday ingredients, and delivers a bakery-quality dish. The custard-soaked croissants turn irresistibly soft inside and slightly crisp on top, while the chocolate provides just the right amount of sweetness. It’s also a great make-ahead option—you can assemble it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning. Ideal for holidays, brunch gatherings, or whenever you crave something sweet but not overly complicated.
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Irresistible Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake – A Decadent Morning Treat
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a decadent, make-ahead brunch dish that combines buttery croissants, rich chocolate, and a creamy custard baked to golden perfection. It’s like a luxurious bread pudding with all the flavors of a Parisian bakery breakfast.
Ingredients
- 4 large croissants (preferably a day old)
- 1 cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing the baking dish)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a medium baking dish with butter.
- Cut the croissants into large pieces (about 2 inches) and layer half in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle half the chocolate over the croissants, then repeat with the remaining croissants and chocolate.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants, pressing lightly to help them absorb the liquid.
- Let sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the croissants to soak.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, until puffed and golden brown with set custard.
- Cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Serve warm as is, or with whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Use stale croissants for best texture—they absorb the custard better without getting soggy.
- Can be prepared the night before and refrigerated; bake in the morning for an easy breakfast.
- Try adding raspberries or sliced bananas between layers for a fruity twist.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the cream.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: French-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Croissants – Day-old croissants work best since they absorb the custard without becoming soggy. You can use either store-bought or homemade ones.
Chocolate chips or chopped chocolate – Semi-sweet or dark chocolate adds balance to the rich custard, but milk chocolate works if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
Eggs – These form the base of the custard, binding everything together while adding richness.
Whole milk – Gives the bake a creamy texture. You can substitute with almond milk or oat milk for a lighter option.
Heavy cream – Adds luxurious smoothness to the custard and enhances the flavor.
Vanilla extract – Provides a warm, sweet aroma that ties the custard and chocolate together beautifully.
Sugar – A touch of sugar brings the right amount of sweetness to the dish without overpowering the chocolate.
Salt – Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors and prevents the dish from being too sweet.
Powdered sugar (for garnish) – A light dusting before serving adds a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness.
Directions
- Prepare the croissants by cutting them into halves or large chunks and layering them in a buttered baking dish. Scatter chocolate chips or pieces of chocolate between the layers.
- Make the custard by whisking together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the custard evenly over the croissants, making sure each piece is well-coated. Gently press down the top layer to help the bread absorb the mixture.
- Rest the mixture for at least 15–20 minutes, or cover and refrigerate overnight if you prefer baking it fresh in the morning.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm, optionally with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream.
Equipment needed
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula or spoon
- Oven
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 to 8 people, making it ideal for family breakfasts or small gatherings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Resting time: 20 minutes (or overnight)
Baking time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes, or microwave briefly until heated through. Avoid over-microwaving, as it can make the croissants chewy.
Variations and Customizations
Nutty Twist – Add chopped hazelnuts or almonds between layers for extra crunch and flavor.
Fruit Addition – Toss in raspberries or sliced bananas for a fruity complement to the chocolate.
Caramel Delight – Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before baking for a sweet, buttery touch.
Cinnamon Infusion – Mix a teaspoon of cinnamon into the custard for a cozy, spiced aroma.
Savory Option – Skip the chocolate and add ham, cheese, and herbs for a brunch-ready croissant strata.
Vegan Version – Use plant-based milk, coconut cream, and a vegan egg substitute to make this dairy-free.
Extra Chocolatey – Layer with both dark and white chocolate for a richer flavor profile.
Coffee Lover’s Bake – Add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the custard to enhance the chocolate flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
What type of chocolate works best?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate is ideal, but milk chocolate can be used if you prefer a sweeter taste.
Do I have to use day-old croissants?
Day-old croissants absorb the custard better, but fresh ones work fine if you slightly toast them first.
Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, almond, oat, or soy milk are excellent substitutes for whole milk.
How do I prevent the bake from becoming soggy?
Letting the custard soak in for about 15–20 minutes helps achieve the perfect texture.
Can I freeze this breakfast bake?
Yes, cool it completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a cup of strong coffee.
Can I add other fillings?
Absolutely! Try adding nuts, berries, or even a swirl of Nutella.
How can I tell when it’s done baking?
The center should be set and the top golden brown. A knife inserted should come out clean.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish, adding 5–10 minutes to the bake time.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is the definition of effortless elegance. With its buttery croissant layers, melted chocolate, and creamy custard, it transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious breakfast centerpiece. Whether you’re preparing it for a weekend brunch or a holiday morning, it promises to delight everyone at the table. It’s proof that a little creativity—and a few leftover croissants—can turn an ordinary breakfast into something truly extraordinary.
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