Chocolate Croissant Bread Pudding

Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of buttery croissants mingling with rich, melted chocolate and a silky vanilla custard. This Chocolate Croissant Bread Pudding transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious brunch centerpiece that feels like a warm hug on a lazy morning. Whether you're hosting a special breakfast gathering or treating yourself to something extraordinary, this French-American fusion dessert delivers pure comfort in every spoonful.

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The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the crispy golden top and the creamy, custard-soaked interior. Each bite reveals pockets of melted chocolate nestled within tender croissant layers, all bound together by a luscious vanilla custard. It's comfort food elevated to celebration status, yet surprisingly simple to master.

Ingredients

• Breads & Chocolates: 6 large croissants (preferably day-old), cut into 2-inch pieces; 1 cup (170 g) semisweet chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
• Custard Mixture: 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk; 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream; 4 large eggs; 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• Toppings (optional): Powdered sugar, for dusting; Fresh berries, for serving; Whipped cream, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with butter.

Step 2: Layer the Croissants and Chocolate

Arrange the croissant pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle chocolate chips or chopped chocolate over and between the croissant pieces.

Step 3: Make the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.

Step 4: Soak the Croissants

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissants, pressing gently to ensure all pieces are moistened. Let stand for 10 minutes to allow the croissants to soak up the custard.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Step 7: Garnish

Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with fresh berries or whipped cream, if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best texture, use croissants that are at least one day old, as they absorb the custard more effectively without becoming overly soggy. If you only have fresh croissants, place them on a baking sheet and toast them lightly in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes to dry them out slightly. The 10-minute soaking time is crucial—it allows the custard to penetrate every flaky layer without losing the croissant's characteristic texture. When pressing the croissants into the custard, be gentle but thorough to ensure even distribution.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your taste preferences. For a citrus twist, add a tablespoon of orange zest or a splash of orange liqueur to the custard mixture before pouring. White chocolate lovers can substitute white chocolate chips for the semisweet variety. For a more intense chocolate experience, use dark chocolate with 70% cocoa content. You can also add a handful of chopped toasted nuts like pecans or hazelnuts for extra crunch and flavor complexity. Those who prefer less sweetness can reduce the sugar to 1/3 cup without compromising the custard's texture.

Serviervorschläge

This bread pudding shines when served warm, allowing the chocolate to remain slightly melted and gooey. A generous dusting of powdered sugar adds visual appeal and a touch of extra sweetness. Fresh berries—especially raspberries or strawberries—provide a tart contrast that balances the richness perfectly. A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms this from brunch dish to elegant dessert. For an extra indulgent presentation, drizzle with warm chocolate sauce or caramel. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days and reheated in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

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This Chocolate Croissant Bread Pudding proves that the most memorable dishes often come from combining simple ingredients in thoughtful ways. It's a recipe that invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and share something truly special with the people you love. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply making an ordinary morning extraordinary, this indulgent creation delivers warmth, comfort, and pure deliciousness in every bite.