Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a decadent and indulgent breakfast casserole that feels like something straight from a French bakery. Made with buttery croissants layered with rich chocolate, soaked in a custard mixture of eggs and cream, then baked until golden and puffed, this dish is equal parts elegant and comforting.
It’s perfect for holidays, brunches, or any morning when you want to treat your family to something extra special. The best part is how easy it is, you can assemble it the night before, refrigerate, and simply bake it in the morning. With its flaky croissants, melted chocolate, and custardy base, it’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 6 large croissants (day-old or lightly toasted), cut into chunks
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar (for garnish)
- Whipped cream or fresh berries (optional, for serving)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare Croissants
- Cut croissants into chunks. If fresh, toast them lightly in the oven for 5 minutes to dry them out slightly.
Step 2: Assemble Layers
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the croissant pieces in the dish.
- Sprinkle half of the chocolate chips over the croissants.
- Add the rest of the croissant chunks and top with remaining chocolate.
Step 3: Make the Custard
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour evenly over croissant and chocolate layers, pressing gently to help the bread soak up the mixture.
Step 4: Chill (Optional, Recommended)
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
Step 5: Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove casserole from fridge, uncover, and bake for 40–45 minutes, until puffed and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
- Let cool 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Dust with powdered sugar and top with whipped cream or berries if desired.
Variations
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped hazelnuts or almonds between layers.
- Fruit Boost: Add raspberries, strawberries, or cherries with the chocolate.
- Extra Rich: Drizzle with warm chocolate sauce before serving.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk, cream, and dairy-free chocolate.
Cooking Notes
- Day-old croissants soak up custard better than fresh ones.
- Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
- Leftovers taste amazing cold or reheated the next day.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a breakfast centerpiece for brunch gatherings.
- Pair with coffee, hot chocolate, or mimosas.
- Add fresh fruit salad on the side for balance.
Tips
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
- Let casserole sit after baking so custard sets.
- Freeze baked portions for up to 2 months; reheat in oven.
- Sprinkle powdered sugar right before serving for presentation.
Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
- Baking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes (including chill)
Nutritional Information (per serving, 10 servings)
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 9g
- Sodium: 250mg
FAQs
Q1: Can I make chocolate croissant breakfast bake ahead of time?
- Yes, prepare it the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.
Q2: Can I use mini croissants?
- Yes, just cut them in half before layering.
Q3: Can I use puff pastry instead of croissants?
- Not recommended, croissants provide the best buttery texture.
Q4: What kind of chocolate works best?
- Semi-sweet or dark chocolate balances the sweetness, but milk chocolate can also be used.
Q5: Can I freeze this casserole?
- Yes, bake it first, let it cool, then freeze. Reheat covered in oven.
Conclusion
Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a luxurious, bakery-inspired dish that turns simple ingredients into a stunning breakfast or brunch centerpiece. With buttery croissants, rich chocolate, and a creamy custard base, it’s elegant enough for holidays yet simple enough for everyday indulgence. Make it ahead, customize it with fruits or nuts, and enjoy a recipe that’s sure to impress.