If you love rich, chocolatey breakfasts that feel straight out of a café, this Decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is made for you. Flaky croissants, melted chocolate, and a velvety custard come together in one effortless oven-baked dish. It’s indulgent without being complicated, perfect for relaxed weekends, special occasions, or stress-free brunch hosting.

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Ingredients

5 large croissants, preferably day-old, cut into chunks
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 cups whole milk
4 large eggs
½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Toppings

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Powdered sugar
Fresh berries
Whipped cream

Instructions for Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Layer the Croissants

Spread the croissant pieces evenly in the baking dish. Scatter the chocolate chips throughout, allowing them to nestle between layers.

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Step 3: Prepare the Custard

In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.

Step 4: Soak the Croissants

Slowly pour the custard over the croissants. Gently press down so the bread absorbs the mixture evenly.

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Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set. Tent with foil if the top browns too quickly.

Step 6: Serve

Let rest for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with berries or whipped cream.

Pro Tips

Use day-old croissants for the best texture
Let the mixture rest 10–15 minutes before baking for deeper flavor
Choose high-quality chocolate for a smoother melt
For extra richness, replace ½ cup of milk with heavy cream

Why This Recipe Works

Combines flaky pastry with creamy custard
Uses simple, everyday ingredients
Feels luxurious without extra effort
Ideal for make-ahead breakfasts and gatherings

Substitutions & Variations

Swap chocolate chips for dark or white chocolate
Add raspberries or strawberries for a fruity contrast
Stir espresso powder into the custard for a mocha twist
Use almond milk and dairy-free chocolate for a lactose-free option
Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans for crunch

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make-Ahead:
Assemble the bake the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning.

Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

Microwave individual servings for 30–45 seconds
Oven reheat at 325°F for 10–15 minutes

Serving Ideas for Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake

Pair with fresh fruit salad for balance
Serve alongside scrambled eggs for contrast
Add a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce
Present in individual ramekins for brunch elegance

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: ~380
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 20g
Sugar: 22g

Values are approximate and may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this recipe overnight?

Yes, refrigerate it overnight and bake fresh the next day.

Can I freeze this breakfast bake?

Yes. Bake, cool completely, then freeze for up to one month.

Can I use mini croissants?

Absolutely—just adjust baking time slightly if needed.

Does it taste more like dessert or breakfast?

It’s the perfect balance of both, making it ideal for brunch.

This Decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake delivers everything you love about bakery pastries in one cozy, shareable dish. Rich, comforting, and incredibly easy, it’s guaranteed to impress whether served for brunch, holidays, or a sweet morning treat.