Description
This Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a rich and comforting breakfast casserole made with buttery croissants, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and a creamy vanilla custard. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, it’s an easy-to-prepare, make-ahead dish ideal for a weekend brunch or special breakfast treat.
Ingredients
Base
- 6 large croissants, cut into pieces
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For Serving
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the bake doesn’t stick.
- Arrange Croissants: Evenly distribute the croissant pieces in the prepared baking dish, creating an even base layer.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips over the croissant pieces for melty pockets of chocolate throughout.
- Make Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon until well combined and smooth.
- Combine & Soak: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants and chocolate chips. Gently press the croissants down so they absorb the custard well, ensuring a moist and creamy texture.
- Rest: Allow the dish to sit for 10–15 minutes to let the croissants soak up the custard fully.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes until the casserole is puffed, golden on top, and the center is set.
- Cool & Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 5–10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Day-old croissants work best as they absorb the custard more effectively.
- Feel free to add sliced bananas, raspberries, or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.
- Using dark chocolate chips will give a richer chocolate flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat before serving to enjoy warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
