Decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake Recipe
This Decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a warm and indulgent morning treat perfect for weekend brunch or special occasions. Day-old croissants are soaked in a rich custard mixed with semi-sweet chocolate chips, then baked to golden perfection. Topped with a dusting of powdered sugar and served with fresh berries or whipped cream, this baked breakfast dish is a comforting combination of buttery croissants and melty chocolate.
- Author: liam
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Base
- 5 large croissants (preferably day-old), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Custard
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Fresh berries or whipped cream, for serving
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer Croissants and Chocolate: Arrange the croissant pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over and between the layers of croissants for melty chocolate pockets.
- Make Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined to create a smooth custard mixture.
- Soak the Croissants: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissant pieces, ensuring all are soaked. Gently press down with a spatula to help the custard absorb into the bread.
- Let Sit (Optional): Allow the mixture to rest for 10–15 minutes so the croissants can absorb the custard thoroughly, enhancing the texture and richness.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is fully set. If the top is browning too quickly, tent loosely with foil during the last 10–15 minutes to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let the bake cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before serving warm alongside fresh berries or whipped cream, if desired.
Notes
- Use day-old croissants for best results as they hold up better and absorb custard without becoming too soggy.
- For a mocha flavor twist, add 1 tablespoon of espresso powder to the custard mixture.
- This bake can be assembled the night before and refrigerated overnight, then baked fresh in the morning for convenience.
Keywords: chocolate croissant bake, breakfast casserole, baked French toast, custard bake, chocolate breakfast bake