Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for a cozy weekend brunch. Layers of flaky croissants, rich cream cheese, and melty chocolate come together in a creamy custard for a comforting start to your day.

Ingredients

• 1 (10 to 13-oz) package mini croissants, chopped
• 2 (8-oz) packages cream cheese, room temperature
• 1⅓ cup sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
2. Step 2: Place the chopped croissant pieces evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the croissants.
3. Step 3: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla, mixing until well blended. Pour in the milk and mix until combined.
4. Step 4: Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the croissant pieces and chocolate chips in the pan.
5. Step 5: Let the bake stand at room temperature for 20 minutes, or cover and refrigerate overnight for a more set texture.
6. Step 6: Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use freshly baked or day-old croissants for best texture; stale croissants soak up the custard nicely without becoming too mushy.
• Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark or milk chocolate depending on your preference.
• If you like, add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce before serving for extra indulgence.
• For a fruity twist, toss in some fresh berries or sliced bananas with the croissants before adding the custard.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for 30–45 seconds until heated through. It also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bake the night before and refrigerate it. Baking it the next morning helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Can I use regular-sized croissants instead of mini croissants?

Yes, simply chop the regular croissants into smaller pieces to ensure even soaking and baking.

Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake Recipe

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This Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a decadent and easy-to-make dish perfect for a special breakfast or brunch. It combines flaky mini croissants with a creamy custard batter and rich semi-sweet chocolate chips, baked to a golden perfection. The result is a warm, custardy casserole that tastes like a cross between French toast and a chocolate cake, ideal for indulging your morning sweet tooth.

• Author: nova
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 to 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes to overnight (if refrigerated overnight before baking)
• Yield: 8 to 10 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast, Brunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base

• 1 (10 to 13-oz) package mini croissants, chopped

Custard Mixture

• 2 (8-oz) packages cream cheese, room temperature
• 1⅓ cups sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups milk

Mix-ins

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Layer Croissants and Chocolate Chips: Scatter the chopped mini croissant pieces evenly in the prepared baking pan. Then, sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the croissants to ensure every bite has a delicious chocolate touch.
3. Make the Custard Batter: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until well combined. Gradually pour in the milk and continue mixing until the custard mixture is smooth and homogenous.
4. Combine and Soak: Pour the custard evenly over the croissants and chocolate chips in the pan. Let the bake stand at room temperature for 20 minutes to allow the croissants to soak up the custard. Alternatively, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavor and texture.
5. Bake the Casserole: Place the pan uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving warm.

Notes

• For best results, allow the croissants to soak overnight in the custard mixture in the refrigerator.
• You can substitute whole milk with half-and-half for a richer custard.
• Use mini croissants for even baking and better custard absorption.
• This bake can be reheated in the microwave or oven and makes great leftovers.
• Try adding nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture.

Keywords: chocolate croissant bake, breakfast casserole, chocolate breakfast bake, custard bake, brunch recipe, easy breakfast, croissant casserole