Decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake Recipe

Introduction

Start your day with a warm, indulgent treat by making this Decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake. Layers of buttery croissants and semi-sweet chocolate chips soaked in a rich custard create a perfect morning delight that feels both comforting and luxurious.

Ingredients

• 5 large day-old croissants, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 large eggs
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: Layer the croissant pieces evenly in the baking dish and sprinkle chocolate chips over them.
3. Step 3: In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
4. Step 4: Pour the custard mixture over the croissants and gently press them down to soak.
5. Step 5: Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb flavors.
6. Step 6: Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes until golden brown. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
7. Step 7: Allow to cool slightly before serving with powdered sugar and fresh berries.

Tips & Variations

• Use day-old croissants for the best texture; fresh croissants may become too soggy.
• Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark or milk chocolate based on your preference.
• For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or hazelnuts on top before baking.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the custard for deeper flavor.

Storage

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30–45 seconds or in a 325°F oven until warmed through. This bake is best enjoyed fresh but keeps well when stored properly.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use another type of bread instead of croissants?

Yes, brioche or challah work well as substitutes, but croissants give the best buttery, flaky texture typical of this bake.

Is it possible to prepare this dish the night before?

Absolutely! Assemble the bake and refrigerate it overnight, then bake it fresh in the morning for convenience and great flavor.

Decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 141 reviews

A rich and indulgent breakfast casserole featuring day-old croissants soaked in a creamy custard and studded with semi-sweet chocolate chips. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, this decadent chocolate croissant breakfast bake is an irresistible morning treat that combines flaky pastry, melty chocolate, and a luscious custard base.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base

• 5 large day-old croissants, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Custard Mixture

• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 large eggs
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Layer Croissants and Chocolate: Arrange the croissant pieces evenly in the baking dish. Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the croissants to distribute chocolate flavor throughout.
3. Mix Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Soak Croissants: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants and chocolate chips. Gently press the croissants down so they absorb the custard thoroughly.
5. Rest to Absorb: Allow the croissants to soak in the custard for 10-15 minutes, giving the bread time to absorb all the flavors.
6. Bake: Bake the dish uncovered for 45–50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. If the croissants brown too rapidly, cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Optionally, sprinkle with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh berries for an elegant presentation.

Notes

• Using day-old croissants ensures better absorption of the custard without becoming too soggy.
• You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate depending on your preference.
• Allowing the bake to sit after pouring custard helps the croissants soak up flavors fully.
• Cover loosely with foil during baking if browning happens too fast to avoid burning.
• Serve warm for best flavor and texture.

Keywords: chocolate croissant bake, breakfast casserole, custard bake, chocolate breakfast, baked croissants, indulgent breakfast