Chocolate Croissant Bake Recipe
This delightful Chocolate Croissant Bake transforms day-old croissants into a rich, custardy dessert or breakfast treat. Layered with semi-sweet chocolate chips and soaked in a creamy egg mixture, then baked to golden perfection, it offers a comforting blend of flaky pastry and melty chocolate. Perfect for brunch or a special occasion, this easy-to-make recipe fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and satisfies chocolate lovers everywhere.
- Author: Caleb
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast / Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Croissant and Chocolate Layer
- 6 large croissants, preferably day-old
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Garnish
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Arrange Croissants: Tear the croissants into bite-sized pieces and evenly distribute them in the prepared baking dish, creating a base layer.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the croissant pieces, spreading them out for balanced sweetness.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Soak the Croissants: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant and chocolate layers in the baking dish. Then, gently press down on the croissant pieces to help them absorb the custard thoroughly.
- Rest the Mixture: Allow the layered mixture to sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the croissants soak up the custard for a moist and tender bake.
- Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the custard is set but still slightly soft in the center.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bake cool for a few minutes to set further before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired to add a touch of sweetness and an elegant finish.
Notes
- Using day-old croissants is ideal as they absorb the custard better without becoming overly soggy.
- Feel free to substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips according to your taste preference.
- For added flavor, consider stirring in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the custard mixture.
- This dish can be served warm or at room temperature and pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or whipped cream.
- To make ahead, prepare the dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight before baking the next morning, increasing baking time slightly if baking from chilled.
Keywords: Chocolate croissant bake, chocolate croissant casserole, breakfast bake, baked French toast, chocolate bread pudding