Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a delightful twist on classic bread pudding, perfect for cozy mornings or brunch gatherings. With rich chocolate chips and buttery croissants soaked in a sweet custard, it’s a comforting treat everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 6 large croissants, preferably day-old
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: Tear the croissants into bite-sized pieces and evenly distribute them in the prepared baking dish.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the croissant pieces.
4. Step 4: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
5. Step 5: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant and chocolate layers in the baking dish.
6. Step 6: Gently press down on the croissant pieces to ensure they soak up the egg mixture.
7. Step 7: Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
8. Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
9. Step 9: Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use day-old croissants for best texture; fresh ones might become too mushy.
• Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for white or dark chocolate to vary the flavor.
• Add a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Serve with fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warm. This bake can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread instead of croissants?

Yes, you can use brioche, challah, or French bread for a similar texture, although croissants give this recipe its signature richness.

Can I prepare this dish the night before?

Absolutely. Assemble the bake, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.

Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 148 reviews

This Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a decadent and comforting dish featuring day-old croissants soaked in a rich custard with semi-sweet chocolate chips. Perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or special occasion, this bake delivers a perfect balance of tender croissants and melted chocolate in every bite.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base

• 6 large croissants, preferably day-old, torn into bite-sized pieces

Custard Mixture

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Add-ins

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Optional

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Arrange Croissants: Tear the croissants into bite-sized pieces and evenly distribute them in the prepared baking dish, creating a base layer.
3. Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the croissant pieces, ensuring each bite will have a touch of chocolate.
4. Make Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
5. Pour Mixture: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants and chocolate in the baking dish, making sure all pieces are covered.
6. Soak Croissants: Gently press down on the croissant pieces to help them absorb the egg mixture. Allow the bake to sit for about 10 minutes so the liquid is fully absorbed.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set and no longer jiggly.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the bake cool for a few minutes before slicing. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation.

Notes

• Day-old croissants are preferred as they absorb the custard better without becoming too soggy.
• You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate chips based on your preference.
• For a richer flavor, whole milk is recommended but you can use 2% or dairy alternatives if desired.
• This bake can be prepared the night before, refrigerated overnight after assembling, and baked fresh in the morning.
• To make it gluten-free, substitute croissants with gluten-free bread or gluten-free croissants.

Keywords: chocolate croissant breakfast bake, croissant breakfast casserole, chocolate chip breakfast bake, baked croissant custard