Description
At its core, a Chocolate Espresso Croissant Bake is a sophisticated twist on the traditional bread pudding. Instead of using standard loaves of white bread or brioche, we utilize the airy, laminated layers of croissants. These pastries are naturally rich in butter, which means that when they soak up a custard base, the result is exponentially creamier than any other bread-based dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6–8 croissants (day-old works best), torn into pieces
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 tsp instant espresso powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: powdered sugar or whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar. - Arrange croissants:
Place torn croissant pieces evenly in the baking dish. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top. - Mix custard:
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, espresso powder, vanilla, and salt until smooth. - Combine:
Pour the custard mixture over the croissants, pressing lightly to soak them. Let sit 10–15 minutes so the bread absorbs the liquid. - Bake:
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set. - Serve:
Sprinkle with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream. Enjoy warm!
Notes
One of my favorite weekend treats—rich, chocolatey, and perfect with a cup of coffee.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast / Brunch
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: ~380 kcal
Keywords: Mocha Croissant Bread Pudding, Espresso Chocolate Pastry Bake, Coffee Infused Croissant Casserole, Dark Chocolate Mocha Breakfast Bake