Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake – Easy Brunch Dessert Recipe
Chocolate croissant breakfast bake is the ultimate indulgent brunch dish! Flaky croissants layered with rich chocolate and creamy custard are baked until golden and delicious. Perfect for holiday mornings, weekend brunch, or when you want to impress guests with a simple yet decadent dessert-style breakfast.
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife or pastry cutter
- Measuring cups & spoons
Ingredients
- 6–8 large croissants (fresh or day-old)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bars
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for richness)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp salt
- Optional: 4 oz cream cheese (cubed, for tangy variation)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prep Croissants: Tear or slice croissants into bite-sized pieces. Arrange evenly in a greased baking dish.
- Add Chocolate: Scatter chocolate chips or chopped chocolate among the croissant pieces.
- Make Custard: In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Pour Custard: Pour evenly over croissants, pressing lightly to ensure they soak.
- Chill (Optional): Cover and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes until custard is set and top is golden.
- Finish: Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Notes
- Day-old croissants absorb custard better than fresh.
- Avoid overbaking—custard should be set but creamy.
- Prep the night before for stress-free mornings.
- Try flavor variations: Nutella swirl, almond topping, or white chocolate with raspberries.
- Reheat gently in oven to restore crispness.