Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake

This chocolate croissant breakfast bake is a luxurious and indulgent dish that combines flaky croissants, rich chocolate, and a creamy custard for the ultimate breakfast or brunch treat. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or simply elevating your morning routine, this bake is as easy to make as it is delightful to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple yet impressive: Looks gourmet but requires minimal effort.
• Combines the decadence of chocolate with buttery croissants.
• Perfect for feeding a crowd at brunch or special occasions.
• Make-ahead friendly for stress-free mornings.
• Easily customizable with additional flavors or toppings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Croissants (preferably slightly stale)
• Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
• Eggs
• Whole milk
• Heavy cream
• Granulated sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Salt
• Powdered sugar (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the croissants: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cut croissants into large chunks and layer them in the dish. Scatter chocolate chips evenly among the croissant pieces.
2. Make the custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
3. Assemble the bake: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants, pressing gently to ensure they soak up the liquid. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb.
4. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
5. Garnish and serve: Let the bake cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Serves 8–10
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts, almonds, or pecans over the top for added crunch.
• Berry Twist: Add fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries between the croissant layers for a fruity burst.
• Cinnamon Spice: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the custard for a warm, spiced flavor.
• White Chocolate: Use white chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter option.
• Liqueur Touch: Add a splash of Baileys or amaretto to the custard for an adult-friendly treat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked dish (wrapped tightly) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh croissants instead of stale ones?

Yes, but stale croissants absorb the custard better, so consider toasting fresh ones lightly before using.

What type of chocolate is best for this recipe?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the buttery croissants, but you can use milk chocolate if preferred.

Can I make this bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the bake the night before and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning for an easy breakfast.

Do I have to use whole milk and cream?

You can substitute with lower-fat milk, but the bake may be less rich and creamy.

Can I add other fillings?

Yes, fillings like Nutella, peanut butter, or fruit preserves work well layered between the croissants.

How do I prevent the top from over-browning?

If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during baking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free croissants to accommodate dietary restrictions.

What’s the best way to serve this dish?

Serve it warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream.

Can I use mini croissants?

Yes, mini croissants work just as well. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly.

Can I halve the recipe?

Yes, simply halve the ingredients and bake in a smaller dish.

Conclusion

This chocolate croissant breakfast bake is the ultimate indulgent treat for any breakfast or brunch table. With its irresistible combination of buttery croissants, rich chocolate, and creamy custard, it’s sure to impress guests and satisfy cravings. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or looking for a decadent weekend breakfast, this recipe is a must-try!

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