Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake Recipe
Introduction
This Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a decadent and easy morning treat that combines flaky croissants with creamy custard and rich chocolate chips. Perfect for feeding a crowd or a special weekend brunch, it bakes into a warm, gooey delight that everyone will love.
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
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350ºF and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
- Step 2: Spread the chopped croissant pieces evenly in the prepared pan, then sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the croissants.
- Step 3: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla, mixing well after each addition. Pour in the milk and mix until everything is fully combined.
- Step 4: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants and chocolate chips. Let the dish stand at room temperature for 20 minutes, or cover and refrigerate overnight for convenience.
- Step 5: Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. Serve warm for the best experience.
Tips & Variations
- For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
- Use dark or milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a different chocolate flavor.
- Substitute half-and-half for milk to make the custard richer and creamier.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil for 1-2 minutes after baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Storage
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warm, or reheat the whole dish covered with foil in a 325ºF oven until heated through.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this bake the night before?
Yes, you can assemble the bake the night before and refrigerate it. Letting it soak overnight helps the croissants absorb the custard for an even better texture.
Can I use regular croissants instead of mini croissants?
Absolutely. Just chop regular-sized croissants into bite-sized pieces and adjust the quantity to fill your pan accordingly.
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Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes (plus optional overnight soak)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a decadent and easy-to-make breakfast casserole featuring chopped mini croissants, rich cream cheese custard, and melty semi-sweet chocolate chips. Perfect for brunch or a special morning treat, this bake combines buttery croissants with a creamy, sweet custard and gooey chocolate for a delightful start to your day.
Ingredients
Croissant Layer
- 1 (10 to 13-oz) package mini croissants, chopped
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Cream Cheese Custard
- 2 (8-oz) packages cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1⅓ cups sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to ensure the bake doesn’t stick.
- Layer Croissants and Chocolate: Place the chopped mini croissant pieces evenly in the prepared baking pan, then sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the croissants.
- Make the Custard: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until it becomes smooth and creamy. Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract and mix until everything is well combined. Pour in the milk and mix until the custard mixture is smooth and fully blended.
- Combine Layers: Pour the cream cheese custard mixture evenly over the croissant and chocolate layer, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
- Let it Soak: Allow the dish to stand uncovered at room temperature for 20 minutes to let the croissants absorb the custard. For a make-ahead option, cover and refrigerate the dish overnight instead.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the custard is set in the center and the top is lightly golden.
- Serve Warm: Let the bake cool slightly before serving warm for a delicious and indulgent breakfast.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth custard.
- This dish can be prepared the night before and baked fresh in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
- If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute whole milk with half-and-half or heavy cream.
- Try adding chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chocolate croissant bake, breakfast casserole, cream cheese custard, easy breakfast bake, chocolate breakfast bake
