Why Make This Recipe
Decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a truly delightful way to start your day. This dish is simple yet luxurious, combining buttery croissants with rich chocolate and a creamy custard. It’s perfect for gatherings, brunches, or even a special breakfast at home. You’ll enjoy the warm, melty chocolate and the soft croissant texture, making every bite a treat. Plus, it’s easy to put together, especially if you use day-old croissants!
How to Make Decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake
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
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Fresh berries or whipped cream, for serving
Directions
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Layer Croissants and Chocolate: Place croissant pieces evenly in the baking dish. Sprinkle chocolate chips over and between the layers.
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Make Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and salt until fully combined.
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Soak the Croissants: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants. Gently press down with a spatula to help soak.
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Let Sit (Optional): Allow the mixture to sit for 10–15 minutes so the croissants absorb the custard.
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Bake: Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set. Tent with foil during the last 10–15 minutes if browning too quickly.
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Serve: Let cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm with fresh berries or whipped cream if desired.
How to Serve Decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake
Serve this delicious breakfast bake warm from the oven. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely touch. You can also enhance your serving with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the perfect breakfast experience.
How to Store Decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Tips to Make Decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake
- Use Day-Old Croissants: Using slightly stale croissants helps them soak up the custard better, giving you a creamier texture.
- Chocolate Varieties: While semi-sweet chocolate chips work great, you can also mix in dark chocolate or white chocolate for different flavor profiles.
- Add Nuts: For extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the layers.
Variation
For a fruitier version, add sliced bananas or strawberries to the croissant layers before pouring the custard. This adds a nice sweetness and freshness to the dish.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. Just bake it in the morning for a quick breakfast.
Can I freeze this bake?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dish. Cover it tightly and freeze for up to a month. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.
What can I serve with this?
This breakfast bake pairs well with coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. Fresh fruit or a side of bacon can also complement the richness of the dish nicely.