Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake

Name: Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 large croissants, cut into thick slices; 1 cup chocolate chips; 4 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Oven Magic

I love starting my day with a delicious breakfast, and this Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is my go-to indulgence. It's the perfect combination of flaky croissants, rich chocolate, and creamy custard that fills the house with an irresistible aroma. This dish is incredibly easy to prepare and makes for a delightful brunch with family or friends. Just a few ingredients transform into a warm, decadent treat that everyone will crave. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why it has become a staple in my breakfast repertoire.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-02-15T04:29:35.723Z

When I first created this Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake, I was looking for a way to elevate my typical breakfast routine. The idea of layering buttery croissants with rich chocolate and creamy custard came to mind, and the result was nothing short of magical. I love that the layers of flavor develop beautifully while baking, making each bite an experience of decadence.

One tip I learned is to let the dish sit for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven. This allows it to set, making it easier to slice and serve. The chocolate slightly melts into the custard, creating a delectable harmony. It's become a beloved recipe that I share with everyone!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor enveloping flaky croissants
Creamy custard that contrasts beautifully with the texture
Perfect for festive breakfasts or a lazy weekend brunch

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of the Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is undoubtedly the croissants. Their flaky texture allows them to soak up the custard beautifully, creating delightful layers in each bite. If you can't find croissants, you can substitute with pain au chocolat or even brioche for a slightly different but equally indulgent flavor profile. Just remember, the fresher the bread, the better the result. Stale croissants may not absorb the custard as well, leading to a dry bake.

The custard combines eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract, which work in harmony to create a rich, creamy texture that complements the chocolate and croissants. The milk not only adds moisture but also provides a rich mouthfeel. To intensify the flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract or a dash of cinnamon to the custard mix, enriching the taste without overpowering the chocolate.

Baking Tips for Perfection

When you pour the custard over the croissants, take time to let it soak in. Allowing about 10-15 minutes for the croissants to absorb the custard before baking ensures a moist, flavorful dish. If you're short on time, gently push the croissants down to help them soak faster, but be careful not to tear them apart. This soaking process is crucial to achieving that ideal texture where the top is golden and the inside is custardy.

As you bake, keep an eye on the dish starting at the 30-minute mark. Look for a golden brown top and gently jiggling custard to indicate doneness. If you find the top getting too dark, you can tent the dish with aluminum foil to prevent overbrowning while allowing the center to fully set. This way, you achieve a perfect balance between texture and color.

Ingredients

Gather these wholesome ingredients for a delightful breakfast bake:

Ingredients

4 large croissants, cut into thick slices
1 cup chocolate chips
4 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start baking!

Instructions

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

Prepare the Croissants

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the thick slices of croissants in a greased baking dish, overlapping them slightly for better coverage.

Make the Custard Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the croissants.

Add the Chocolate Chips

Sprinkle the chocolate chips generously over the top of the croissants, ensuring even distribution.

Bake the Dish

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the custard is set and the croissants are golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before dusting with powdered sugar and serving warm.

Enjoy your breakfast bake fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor twist, consider adding orange zest to the custard mixture or a dash of cinnamon for warmth.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is delightful when served warm, but for an extra touch, consider adding a side of fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce. The tartness of the berries contrasts beautifully with the rich sweetness of the bake, adding a refreshing component to your brunch spread. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also elevate the experience, turning this breakfast dish into a dessert-inspired treat.

For a more festive presentation, slice the bake into squares and plate with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprig of mint. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh note that complements the chocolate flavors beautifully. Don't forget to pair it with freshly brewed coffee or a rich hot chocolate to round out the experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage

You can prepare this bake ahead of time, making it great for gatherings. Assemble the croissant and custard layers the night before and cover the dish with plastic wrap. Just remember to refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to bake in the morning, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking, ensuring even cooking.

If you have leftovers, the bake refrigerates well for up to 3 days. Warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore its texture and warmth. For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Wrap it tightly and keep it in the freezer for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy, it can be baked from frozen, just add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the croissants and custard mixture the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator. Bake it in the morning for a warm breakfast.

→ What if I don’t have croissants?

You can substitute with other types of bread, but the texture will be different. Brioche or challah work well for a similar effect.

→ Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark, milk, or even white chocolate can be used depending on your preference for sweetness.

→ What should I serve with the bake?

This dish is delicious on its own but pairs nicely with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.