Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake Recipe
Introduction
Start your morning with a decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake that’s sure to please everyone at the table. This easy, comforting dish combines flaky croissants and melty chocolate in a custardy, baked delight that feels both special and simple.
Ingredients
- 6 large croissants, preferably day-old
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Step 2: Tear the croissants into bite-sized pieces and evenly distribute them in the prepared baking dish.
- Step 3: Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the croissant pieces.
- Step 4: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.
- Step 5: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissants and chocolate in the baking dish.
- Step 6: Gently press down on the croissant pieces so they soak up the custard mixture.
- Step 7: Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the liquid fully.
- Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Step 9: Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, then serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the egg mixture.
- Substitute chocolate chips with fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas for a fruity twist.
- Day-old croissants work best as they absorb the custard without becoming too soggy.
- Let the bake sit a bit longer before baking for extra custard absorption.
Storage
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This bake is best enjoyed fresh but keeps well for easy breakfasts.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh croissants instead of day-old ones?
Fresh croissants can work, but day-old croissants absorb the custard better and prevent the bake from becoming too soggy.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute whole milk with a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free chocolate chips to make this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet.
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Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a decadent and comforting morning treat that combines flaky croissants, rich semi-sweet chocolate chips, and a sweet custard-like egg mixture baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a weekend brunch or special occasion, it’s easy to prepare and loved by everyone.
Ingredients
Base
- 6 large croissants, preferably day-old
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Topping
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Prepare Croissants: Tear the croissants into bite-sized pieces and evenly distribute them in the prepared baking dish to create a base layer.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the croissant pieces to add bursts of rich chocolate in each bite.
- Mix Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant and chocolate layers, then gently press down on the croissant pieces to help them soak up the custard fully.
- Soak: Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the croissants to absorb the liquid and become soft and custardy.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set, indicating the bake is done.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired for an elegant finishing touch.
Notes
- For added warmth and depth of flavor, add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the egg mixture before baking.
- You can customize the recipe by substituting the chocolate chips with fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas for a fresher twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Chocolate Croissant Bake, Breakfast Bake, Chocolate Breakfast Casserole, Croissant Breakfast, Sweet Breakfast Casserole
