Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake

Name: Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 large croissants, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 4 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Pinch of salt; Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Highlighted under: Delightful Bakes

I recently discovered the joy of making a Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake, and it has quickly become my favorite weekend treat. This decadent dish is incredibly easy to prepare, using just a few key ingredients. The flaky croissants, rich chocolate, and creamy custard create a perfect blend of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. Whether I’m serving it for brunch or enjoying it as a cozy breakfast at home, this bake always brings smiles to the table.

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-15T03:37:35.998Z

I remember the first time I made this Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake; the aroma filled my kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around. By layering croissant pieces with gooey chocolate, I found myself creating a comforting dish that was visually stunning. To elevate the flavor, I whisked in some vanilla and a hint of cinnamon, which turned out to be the perfect touch.

While making this bake, I learned that letting it sit for a few minutes before serving allows the custard to set just a little more, making it easier to slice. This is especially beneficial if you want to showcase the beautiful layers of croissants and chocolate! Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate and flaky croissant combination
Perfect for brunch gatherings or lazy weekends
Easily customizable with your favorite fillings

Unlocking the Flavor of Chocolate and Croissant

The combination of dark chocolate chips and buttery croissants creates a rich and decadent flavor profile. The chocolate melts beautifully during baking, infusing each croissant piece with indulgent sweetness. To elevate this further, consider using high-quality chocolate, such as bittersweet or dark chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage, which adds depth and a slightly bitter contrast to the overall sweetness of the dish.

Additionally, the layering of chocolate between the croissant pieces not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that every bite is packed with chocolate goodness. For a more intense chocolate experience, mix in some chocolate hazelnut spread between the croissants before pouring the custard over the top.

Baking Techniques for the Perfect Bake

Achieving the ideal texture of this bake relies heavily on the custard soaking into the croissant pieces. A common mistake is not allowing enough time for the mixture to absorb; therefore, I recommend letting it sit for about 10–15 minutes after pouring the custard. This ensures the croissants soften properly and absorb enough liquid for a luscious finish. If the croissant pieces are too dry, they'll turn out less flavorful and potentially burnt on the edges.

Also, pay attention to your oven's hot spots by rotating the dish halfway through baking. This adjustment helps in achieving that golden-brown top, ensuring even cooking without any soggy bottoms. If you notice the top browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the inside continues to cook through.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake:

Ingredients

4 large croissants, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup dark chocolate chips
4 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Make sure to gather all these delicious ingredients for a delightful meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake:

Prepare the Croissants

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased baking dish, evenly distribute the bite-sized croissant pieces, making sure to fill in any gaps with pieces of chocolate.

Make the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Combine and Bake

Pour the custard mixture over the croissants, pressing down gently to ensure everything is soaked. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.

Serve

Allow the bake to cool slightly before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm.

Enjoy your warm slices of Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake!

Pro Tips

You can add nuts or berries for extra texture and flavor. For a twist, try using almond chocolate croissants!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is an excellent candidate for make-ahead preparation. You can assemble it the night before—just prepare the croissants and custard, pour it over, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, all you have to do is pop it in the oven, which makes it perfect for brunch gatherings or leisurely weekends.

For storing leftovers, let the bake cool completely, then wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a crispy texture.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to personalize this recipe with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. For example, adding fresh berries or chopped nuts can provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. You could also swap out dark chocolate chips for white chocolate or even try caramel chips for a different twist.

For a more decadent experience, drizzle the finished bake with a simple chocolate glaze or serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you're looking to make it a bit lighter, consider using croissants made with lighter ingredients, such as whole wheat or almond flour croissants, without sacrificing taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use stale croissants?

Yes, stale croissants work perfectly for this recipe as they'll absorb the custard better.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish the night before and bake it in the morning for a quick brunch.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This bake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or a drizzle of maple syrup.