Chocolate Croissant Bread Pudding Recipe

Introduction

This chocolate croissant bake is a delightful twist on the classic pastry, perfect for breakfast or dessert. Using day-old croissants soaked in a rich custard with melted chocolate creates a warm, comforting treat that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 4 large croissants, preferably day-old
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 4 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Step 2: Slice the croissants into thick pieces and layer half of them in the prepared baking dish.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle half of the chocolate chips evenly over the croissant pieces. Add the remaining croissants on top, then sprinkle with the rest of the chocolate chips.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
5. Step 5: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered croissants and chocolate. Gently press down to help the croissants soak up the liquid.
6. Step 6: Bake for 35 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. Allow to cool slightly, dust with powdered sugar if desired, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use day-old croissants to prevent them from becoming too soggy and to enhance absorption of the custard.
• For a nutty twist, add chopped toasted almonds or hazelnuts between the croissant layers.
• Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark or milk chocolate depending on your sweetness preference.
• Serve with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Storage

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings gently in the microwave or warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes to restore crispness and warmth.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh croissants instead of day-old?

Yes, fresh croissants can be used, but they may become slightly soggy as they absorb the custard. Day-old croissants hold up better and soak in the custard evenly without falling apart.

Can I prepare this dish the night before?

Absolutely. Assemble the croissant bake, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it the next morning for a hassle-free, delicious breakfast.

Chocolate Croissant Bread Pudding Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 104 reviews

This Chocolate Croissant Bake is a decadent, comforting dessert or brunch dish that transforms day-old croissants into a rich, custardy treat filled with melted semi-sweet chocolate. Layers of croissants and chocolate chips are soaked in a vanilla-scented custard, baked until golden and bubbly, then dusted with powdered sugar for an irresistible finish.

• Author: lea
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French-inspired

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Croissant and Chocolate

• 4 large croissants, preferably day-old
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Custard Mixture

• 4 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For Topping

• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or a nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Slice and Layer Croissants: Slice the croissants into thick pieces and arrange half of them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle half of the semi-sweet chocolate chips over the first layer of croissant pieces. Layer the remaining croissants on top, then sprinkle with the remaining chocolate chips.
4. Mix Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
5. Pour Custard Over Croissants: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered croissants and chocolate chips. Gently press down on the croissants to help them absorb the custard.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top has turned a beautiful golden brown shade.
7. Serve: Allow the bake to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.

Notes

• Using day-old croissants helps the bread better absorb the custard without becoming too soggy.
• If you prefer, you can substitute chocolate chips with chunks of chocolate or even Nutella for added richness.
• This dish can be prepared the night before; after assembling, cover and refrigerate overnight before baking in the morning.
• For a dairy-free version, consider using almond milk and coconut cream instead of whole milk and heavy cream.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.

Keywords: Chocolate Croissant, Croissant Bake, Chocolate Breakfast Bake, Custard Bake, Dessert Croissant, Chocolate Custard