Description
A rich and indulgent breakfast bake combining buttery croissants soaked in a sweet chocolate custard, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a special morning treat or weekend brunch, this decadent chocolate croissant breakfast bake is easy to prepare and delightfully satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 5 large croissants (preferably day-old), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Layer Croissants and Chocolate: Place the cut croissant pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over and between the croissant layers to ensure each bite has a chocolatey surprise.
- Make Custard: In a large bowl, vigorously whisk together the whole milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, forming the custard base.
- Soak the Croissants: Pour the custard evenly over the croissant pieces in the baking dish. Gently press down with a spatula to help the croissants absorb the custard mixture fully for a rich texture.
- Let Sit (Optional): Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. This resting time lets the croissants soak up the custard more thoroughly, resulting in a custardy and soft center.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes. The top should turn golden brown, and the custard should be set. If the top browns too fast, tent loosely with foil during the last 10–15 minutes to prevent burning.
- Serve: Let the bake cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm, accompanied by fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special presentation.
Notes
- Use day-old croissants for best results—they absorb custard better and hold their shape during baking.
- For a mocha twist, add 1 tablespoon of espresso powder to the custard mixture before pouring over the croissants.
- This bake can be prepared the night before; assemble and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1 slice)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 160 mg
Keywords: chocolate croissant bake, breakfast casserole, chocolate breakfast bake, croissant custard bake, decadent breakfast recipe, easy brunch recipes
