This Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a delightful, indulgent treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. It combines the flaky goodness of buttery croissants with rich chocolate, baked to perfection in a creamy custard base. Whether hosting guests or enjoying a family morning, this dish is sure to impress.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: Easy to assemble with minimal prep time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A decadent dish thatโs universally loved.
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like nuts or drizzle with caramel.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Croissants
- Chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- Eggs
- Milk
- Heavy cream
- Sugar
- Vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Grease a baking dish.
- Cut croissants into smaller pieces and layer them in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips or chopped chocolate over the croissant pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants and chocolate.
- Let the mixture sit for 10โ15 minutes, allowing the croissants to soak up the custard.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35โ40 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6โ8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Fruit Addition: Add fresh berries like raspberries or sliced bananas between the croissant layers.
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds for added crunch.
- Spice It Up: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg in the custard adds a warm, spicy note.
- White Chocolate: Substitute dark chocolate with white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 325ยฐF oven for 10โ15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 30โ60 seconds until heated through.
FAQs
What type of croissants should I use?
Use day-old, store-bought croissants for the best texture. Fresh croissants may become too soggy.
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! Milk, dark, or even flavored chocolate bars work well.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning.
Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk can replace regular milk, but the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Whatโs the best way to prevent the bake from being soggy?
Let the croissants soak for a few minutes before baking and ensure the custard fully covers the bread pieces.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven for best results.
How can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the sugar in the custard or use semi-sweet chocolate.
Can I add toppings?
Of course! Whipped cream, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup are great options.
What size baking dish should I use?
An 8×8-inch or similar-sized dish works well. Adjust the baking time slightly if using a larger or smaller dish.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger dish and increase the ingredients proportionally. Adjust baking time as needed.
Conclusion
Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a rich, satisfying dish perfect for any special occasion or leisurely morning. With its flaky croissants, luscious chocolate, and creamy custard, it’s an easy way to elevate your breakfast game. Try it today and watch it become a household favorite!
PrintChocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is the ultimate morning treat. Flaky croissants are layered with rich chocolate and soaked in a creamy custard, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect for brunch, special occasions, or just a cozy morning indulgence!
Ingredients
- 6 large croissants, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Powdered sugar (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the croissant pieces evenly in the baking dish. Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the top.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants and chocolate, pressing gently to ensure the croissants absorb the liquid.
- Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes to fully soak.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Dust with powdered sugar, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- For an extra chocolatey treat, drizzle melted chocolate on top before serving.
- Add fresh berries or whipped cream for a fruity twist!
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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