Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is the ultimate indulgent brunch dish—flaky, buttery croissants soaked in a rich custard and layered with melted chocolate. It’s a luxurious twist on a classic bread pudding, perfect for weekends, holidays, or when you simply want to impress your guests. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of crisp edges, creamy interior, and gooey chocolate pockets. I tried using a mix of milk chocolate and dark chocolate chunks, and the result was perfectly balanced—not too sweet but still wonderfully decadent. The best part? You can prepare it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning, filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of pastry and cocoa.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Croissants – Use day-old or slightly stale croissants so they soak up the custard without becoming mushy. Their buttery layers give the bake its rich, flaky texture.

Eggs – Essential for the custard base, eggs bind everything together and create a smooth, creamy texture once baked.

Milk – Whole milk adds richness and helps form the custard. You can substitute half the milk with cream for an extra luxurious texture.

Heavy cream – Enhances the custard’s creaminess and gives the bake a velvety finish.

Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps the top layer caramelize slightly during baking.

Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor, enhancing both the pastry and chocolate notes.

Chocolate chips or chunks – The star of the dish! Use semi-sweet, dark, or milk chocolate depending on your preference. I like mixing varieties for a more complex flavor.

Butter – Used to grease the baking dish and add an extra hint of richness to the croissants as they bake.

Salt – A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate flavor.

Powdered sugar (optional) – A light dusting after baking adds a bakery-style finishing touch.

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with butter. Tear or cut the croissants into large pieces and arrange them in the dish. Sprinkle the chocolate chips or chunks evenly over the top, tucking some between the layers for even distribution.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the croissants, pressing them down slightly to ensure they soak up the custard. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb fully (or cover and refrigerate overnight if preparing ahead).

Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown with crisp edges. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.

Equipment needed

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking dish (9×13 inch)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven mitts
• Knife or spatula

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 8 servings. Preparation time takes about 15 minutes, and baking time is 40 minutes, for a total of 55 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10 minutes until warmed through. This dish also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.

Variations and Customizations

Nutty Delight – Add chopped hazelnuts, almonds, or pecans between the croissant layers for extra crunch.

Berry Bliss – Scatter raspberries or strawberries among the croissant pieces before baking for a fruity contrast.

Caramel Swirl – Drizzle caramel sauce over the custard before baking for a rich, buttery finish.

Mocha Version – Mix a teaspoon of instant espresso powder into the custard for a subtle coffee flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.

Cinnamon Twist – Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for a warm, spiced note.

White Chocolate Dream – Replace the dark chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier flavor.

Baileys or Kahlúa Boost – Add a splash of Irish cream or coffee liqueur to the custard for an adult-friendly brunch version.

Almond Croissant Style – Add a layer of almond paste or sliced almonds for a French bakery-inspired twist.

Vegan Option – Use plant-based croissants, non-dairy milk, coconut cream, and vegan chocolate chips.

Mini Portions – Make individual servings in ramekins for elegant presentation at brunches or gatherings.

FAQs

Can I use fresh croissants instead of day-old ones?

Yes, but let them sit out uncovered for a few hours to dry slightly so they better absorb the custard.

What type of chocolate works best?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate provides the best balance of richness and sweetness.

Can I make this the night before?

Absolutely. Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The custard should be set and the top golden brown. It should jiggle slightly in the center but not be liquid.

Can I add fruit to the recipe?

Yes, berries like raspberries or strawberries complement the chocolate beautifully.

Is it supposed to be served hot or cold?

It’s best served warm, but it’s also delicious at room temperature.

Can I use puff pastry instead of croissants?

You can, but the texture will be slightly denser. Croissants provide a lighter, flakier crumb.

How can I make it less sweet?

Reduce the sugar or use darker chocolate for a more balanced flavor.

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes, almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk work well for a dairy-free version.

What toppings go well with this bake?

Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar are all excellent choices.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is pure comfort and indulgence wrapped into one easy-to-make dish. With its flaky pastry, creamy custard, and melted chocolate, it’s a show-stopping centerpiece for any breakfast or brunch. Elegant yet effortless, it transforms everyday ingredients into a decadent experience that feels straight out of a French bakery. Serve it warm, share it with loved ones, and savor each buttery, chocolatey bite—it’s the perfect way to start (or sweeten) your day.