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Decadent Chocolate Croissant Bread Pudding

chocolate croissant bread pudding - featured image

A rich and indulgent dessert combining flaky butter croissants and melted dark chocolate soaked in a creamy custard, perfect for impressing guests or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large butter croissants, day-old or slightly stale
  • 4 oz (115g) dark chocolate, roughly chopped (60-70% cocoa recommended)
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk (can substitute with half-and-half for extra creaminess)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream (can substitute with more milk if preferred)
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur or brewed espresso

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter your baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Tear the croissants into roughly 2-inch (5 cm) pieces and place them evenly in the baking dish.
  3. Scatter the chopped dark chocolate evenly over the croissant pieces.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and salt until smooth.
  5. Slowly add the milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract while whisking to combine thoroughly.
  6. If using, stir in coffee liqueur or a tablespoon of cooled brewed espresso.
  7. Slowly pour the custard mixture over the croissants and chocolate. Press down gently with a spatula to help the croissants soak up the liquid. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
  8. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden and slightly puffed, and custard is set but still soft in the center.
  9. If browning too fast, tent loosely with foil halfway through baking.
  10. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Let the croissants soak in the custard for at least 10 minutes to avoid dry spots. Use room temperature eggs to prevent curdling. Tent with foil if browning too quickly. Let the pudding rest before slicing for best texture. For dairy-free, substitute milk and cream with full-fat coconut milk and use dairy-free chocolate.

Nutrition

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