Decadent Chocolate Croissant Bake (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Croissant Base

01 - 5 large day-old croissants, cut into 2.5 cm pieces
02 - 150 grams semi-sweet chocolate chips

→ Custard Mixture

03 - 480 ml whole milk
04 - 4 large eggs
05 - 100 grams granulated sugar
06 - 5 ml vanilla extract
07 - 1.25 ml salt

→ For Serving

08 - Powdered sugar for dusting
09 - Fresh berries or whipped cream, optional

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Set oven to 175°C and lightly grease a 23×33 cm baking dish to prevent sticking.
02 - Evenly distribute croissant pieces in the baking dish, then sprinkle chocolate chips generously over and between layers.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together whole milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and fully combined.
04 - Pour custard mixture evenly over croissants. Gently press with a spatula to ensure thorough soaking.
05 - Allow the mixture to stand for 10 to 15 minutes so croissants absorb the custard fully.
06 - Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes until the top is golden brown and custard is set. Tent with foil if browning too quickly in the last 10 to 15 minutes.
07 - Let cool slightly, dust with powdered sugar, and serve warm with fresh berries or whipped cream as desired.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - Use day-old croissants for optimal custard absorption. Resting the mixture before baking enhances texture and flavor.
02 - Monitor baking to avoid overbrowning; use foil tenting if necessary.
03 - High-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips improve the depth of flavor.