Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake: Sweet Breakfast Bliss

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This breakfast bake is an effortless way to enjoy the flavors of croissants and chocolate in one easy-to-make dish. The flaky croissant chunks soak up the rich custard, creating a soft, almost pudding-like texture. As it bakes, the chocolate chips melt into the croissants, adding a burst of sweetness. Topped with a dusting of powdered sugar, it’s an indulgent, satisfying breakfast or dessert that everyone will love. Plus, it only takes about 45 minutes to prepare and bake!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 6 large croissants, torn into pieces
• 1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
• 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Powdered sugar (for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat & Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Arrange the Croissants: Tear the croissants into large chunks and spread them evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the croissant pieces.
3. Make the Custard Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using) until smooth.
4. Pour & Soak: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants. Press down gently on the croissants to help them soak up the custard.
5. Bake & Serve: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the croissants. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown and the center is set but still soft.
6. Finish & Serve: Let the breakfast bake cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 6 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Use Different Pastries: If you don’t have croissants, you can substitute with day-old bread, brioche, or even cinnamon rolls for a different flavor twist.
• Add Fruits: Add fresh or dried fruits like berries, bananas, or raisins for a burst of extra sweetness and nutrition.
• Spice it Up: If you enjoy warm spices, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon.
• Extra Chocolatey: Add extra chocolate chips or swirl in some Nutella or peanut butter for an extra indulgent treat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in a warm oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use stale croissants for this recipe?

Yes! Slightly stale croissants work best because they absorb the custard mixture better, resulting in a softer, creamier bake.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake the night before and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, just bake it as instructed.

3. Can I substitute the heavy cream with something else?

You can swap the heavy cream with more milk for a lighter version, or use a non-dairy substitute like almond or oat milk if needed.

4. How do I know when the bake is done?

The bake is done when the top is golden brown, and the center is set but still soft. If you insert a knife in the center, it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.

5. Can I freeze this bake?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled but uncooked breakfast bake for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.

6. What can I serve this with?

This Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake pairs perfectly with fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a truly indulgent breakfast.

7. Can I make this dish without eggs?

Yes, you can try a flax egg substitute or a non-dairy egg replacer to make it egg-free, though the texture might vary slightly.

8. Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?

Yes! Dark chocolate chips will add a richer, more intense chocolate flavor to the dish, making it even more decadent.

9. Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped hazelnuts, almonds, or pecans would be a great addition for a bit of crunch and nutty flavor.

10. How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also freeze individual slices for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.

Conclusion

Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is the ultimate indulgent morning treat. The combination of buttery croissants, rich custard, and melted chocolate makes for a dish that’s both comforting and decadent. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a cozy weekend breakfast, this bake is sure to impress. The best part? It’s quick and easy to make, with a minimal ingredient list that results in a luxurious, sweet breakfast.

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