Flaky, buttery, and filled with rich chocolate—these homemade chocolate croissants (also known as pain au chocolat) are a bakery-style treat you can make right at home. While they take a little time, the result is totally worth it: warm, golden croissants with melty chocolate centers. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack.
For the Dough:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp instant yeast
1 1/4 tsp salt
1 1/4 cups whole milk (warm)
3 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
For the Butter Layer:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold
For the Filling:
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate batons or chopped chocolate
For the Egg Wash:
1 egg
1 tbsp milk
Make the Dough:
In a large bowl or stand mixer, mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the warm milk and softened butter, and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and chill for 1 hour.
Prepare the Butter Block:
Place cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper. Pound and roll it into a 7×7 inch square. Chill until firm but pliable.
Laminate the Dough:
Roll the dough into a 10×10 inch square. Place the butter block in the center at a diagonal. Fold the corners of the dough over the butter and seal. Roll into a rectangle, then fold into thirds (like a letter). Chill for 30 minutes. Repeat rolling and folding 2 more times, chilling between each fold.
Shape the Croissants:
Roll out the dough into a large rectangle (about 1/4 inch thick). Cut into rectangles (about 3×5 inches). Place a few pieces of chocolate near one short edge and roll tightly. Place seam-side down on a lined baking sheet.
Proof:
Cover the croissants loosely with plastic wrap and let them rise in a warm place for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until puffy.
Bake:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Whisk egg and milk to make egg wash. Brush croissants lightly with the egg wash. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cool and Enjoy:
Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Best enjoyed warm
You can use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
To make ahead, shape croissants and freeze before proofing. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, proof, and bake as directed.
These are best eaten the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for 1–2 days and reheated in the oven.
Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/homemade-chocolate-croissants/