Name: Decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491162H33M16S
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French-Inspired
Ingredients: 6 large croissants (day-old preferred), torn into large chunks; 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate); 4 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Powdered sugar, for dusting; Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or espresso powder

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Decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a rich, buttery, and indulgent breakfast casserole made with flaky croissants, melted chocolate, and a silky custard that bakes into pure comfort. It’s perfect for brunch, holidays, or any time I want to treat myself (and everyone else at the table) to something special in the morning.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this breakfast bake because it’s easy to make but feels luxurious and elegant. The croissants soak up the custard beautifully while still keeping those buttery, crispy layers. The pockets of gooey chocolate melt into every bite, making it feel like a cross between bread pudding and a chocolate croissant. It’s great for prepping ahead, and the leftovers (if there are any) are just as good the next day. Decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Croissants (day-old or fresh, preferably large and buttery)
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
Eggs
Whole milk
Heavy cream
Granulated sugar
Vanilla extract
Salt
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Optional: cinnamon or espresso powder for extra depth

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
I slice or tear the croissants into large chunks and layer half of them in the baking dish.
I sprinkle half of the chocolate chips over the croissants, then repeat with the remaining croissants and chocolate to create layers.
In a large bowl, I whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
I pour the custard evenly over the croissants, pressing down lightly to help them soak it up.
I let the bake sit for 10–15 minutes (or cover and refrigerate overnight for a make-ahead option).
I bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden and slightly crisp.
I let it cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6–8.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Rest time (optional): 10–15 minutes or overnight
Bake time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour (longer if chilled overnight)

Variations

Nutty twist: I add sliced almonds or chopped hazelnuts between the layers for crunch.
Fruit addition: I add raspberries, strawberries, or sliced bananas along with the chocolate.
Spiced version: I mix cinnamon or nutmeg into the custard for warm, cozy flavor.
White chocolate: I swap some of the dark chocolate for white chocolate chips.
Mini bakes: I divide the mixture into ramekins for individual servings.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm slices in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave individual servings for 30–60 seconds. If the top softens, I crisp it up under the broiler for a minute. Decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake

FAQs

Can I use store-bought croissants?

Yes, I usually use bakery or grocery store croissants. Day-old croissants work best because they soak up the custard without getting mushy.

Can I make this the night before?

Absolutely. I assemble the entire bake, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. I bake it in the morning for a stress-free breakfast or brunch.

What kind of chocolate works best?

I prefer semi-sweet or dark chocolate because it balances the richness of the custard and croissants. Milk chocolate is sweeter but still delicious.

Can I freeze this breakfast bake?

Yes, I freeze leftovers in individual portions. I wrap them tightly and reheat from frozen in the oven or microwave when I want a quick treat.

What can I serve with this?

I usually serve it with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a side of sausage for a sweet and savory combo.

Conclusion

Decadent Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is one of those recipes that makes any morning feel extra special. It’s buttery, chocolaty, and comforting—perfect for brunches, holidays, or whenever I want to impress with minimal effort. Once I made it the first time, it quickly became a favorite in my breakfast rotation.