Description
A rich and indulgent Chocolate Croissant Baked French Toast that combines flaky, buttery croissants with melty chocolate chips and a velvety vanilla custard. This easy make-ahead breakfast is perfect for cozy mornings, holiday brunches, or special occasions when you want something sweet, warm, and satisfying — without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
8–10 large croissants (preferably day-old) – Tear into large chunks for the perfect texture.
1 cup mini chocolate chips – Or use chopped dark chocolate for bolder flavor.
4 oz cream cheese, softened – Adds richness and balance to the sweetness.
6 large eggs – The backbone of your creamy custard.
1 ½ cups whole milk – Provides structure and a smooth texture.
1 cup heavy cream – For a luxurious, bakery-style consistency.
½ cup granulated sugar – Just enough sweetness without overpowering.
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor beautifully.
¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances the chocolate flavor.
Powdered sugar, for serving – Adds a light, café-style finish.
Optional toppings: Fresh berries, whipped cream, maple syrup, or chocolate drizzle.
Instructions
Prep the Pan
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Tear croissants into chunks and spread half into the dish.Add Chocolate Layers
Sprinkle half of the chocolate chips over the croissants, then layer the remaining croissant pieces on top.Make the Custard
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Whisk in eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, and salt until fully combined.Assemble
Pour the custard evenly over the croissant mixture. Gently press down to help the croissants absorb the custard.Chill (Optional but Recommended)
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight for a creamier texture.Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove dish from fridge and bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, until golden brown and set in the center.Serve
Cool for 10 minutes, dust with powdered sugar, and serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Notes
Make-Ahead: Assemble the night before and refrigerate overnight for effortless mornings.
Storage: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 325°F oven until warm.
Freeze It: Freeze baked portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Flavor Variations: Add orange zest, raspberries, or a swirl of Nutella for a twist.
Texture Tip: Use slightly stale croissants for best results — they soak up the custard perfectly without getting soggy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 240 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 155 mg
