Description
This Decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a luscious and comforting baked dish perfect for brunch or a special breakfast. Day-old croissants are soaked in a rich custard with semi-sweet chocolate chips, baked until golden and custardy, then topped with powdered sugar and served with fresh berries or whipped cream for an indulgent start to your day.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 5 large croissants (preferably day-old), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Custard
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Toppings
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Fresh berries or whipped cream, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and prepare for layering.
- Layer Croissants and Chocolate: Place the croissant pieces evenly in the baking dish. Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips over and between the layers of croissants to ensure each bite has chocolate.
- Make Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
- Soak the Croissants: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants in the baking dish. Use a spatula to gently press down the croissants, helping them absorb the custard thoroughly.
- Let Sit (Optional): Allow the croissant and custard mixture to sit for 10–15 minutes at room temperature to maximize custard absorption into the bread.
- Bake: Bake the dish uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is fully set. If the top browns too quickly, tent the dish with foil during the last 10 to 15 minutes of baking.
- Serve: Let the bake cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant and delicious breakfast treat.
Notes
- Day-old croissants work best as they absorb the custard without becoming too soggy.
- Adjust baking time slightly based on your oven to avoid overbaking.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate based on your preference.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
- This dish can be prepared the night before; assemble and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning.
