Warm Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Bake

Name: Warm Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 large croissants, cut into pieces; 1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread; 2 cups whole milk; 4 large eggs; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm Plates

Warm Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Bake is a delightful dish that combines the richness of chocolate and the nutty flavor of hazelnuts, all baked to golden perfection.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-30T15:30:27.796Z

This Warm Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Bake is perfect for breakfast or dessert. The flaky croissants soak up a rich chocolate custard, creating a decadent dish that will impress your family and friends.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate flavor with a hint of hazelnut
Flaky croissant layers that melt in your mouth
Perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family dinners

      

A Perfect Blend of Flavors

The Warm Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Bake is a harmonious fusion of flavors that delights the senses. Each bite offers the rich, creamy essence of chocolate paired with the subtle nuttiness of hazelnuts, creating a dessert that is both indulgent and comforting. This dish not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides a cozy feeling, making it perfect for any occasion.

The combination of croissants and chocolate hazelnut spread brings a delightful texture to the table. The flaky layers of the croissants soak up the custard mixture, producing a moist and tender base that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy hazelnuts sprinkled on top. It’s this interplay of textures that makes each mouthful irresistible.

Ideal for Any Occasion

Whether it's a lazy Sunday brunch or a festive family gathering, this Warm Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Bake is the star of the show. Its simple preparation and impressive presentation mean you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones. The aroma that fills the air while it bakes is enough to draw everyone to the table.

This dish is versatile, too. You can serve it warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. It also pairs wonderfully with coffee or a glass of dessert wine, making it an ideal choice for both brunch and evening gatherings.

Tips for the Best Bake

To elevate your Warm Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Bake, consider using high-quality chocolate hazelnut spread. The better the ingredients, the richer the flavor. Additionally, if you want to add a twist, try incorporating some fresh berries or banana slices between the croissant layers for a fruity surprise that complements the chocolate beautifully.

Don't rush the baking process. Make sure to allow the dish to cool slightly after baking before serving. This resting time helps the custard set, ensuring every slice holds together perfectly. Your patience will be rewarded with a beautifully presented dish that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Bake

4 large croissants, cut into pieces
1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread
2 cups whole milk
4 large eggs
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional)

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking.

Instructions

Prepare the Croissants

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the croissants into bite-sized pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.

Make the Custard

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

Assemble the Bake

Drizzle the chocolate hazelnut spread over the croissant pieces, then pour the custard mixture evenly over the top. Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts if using.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Serve warm, optionally topped with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Serving Suggestions

For the ultimate experience, serve your Warm Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Bake with a side of fresh fruit. Sliced strawberries, raspberries, or even a fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the bake. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can also enhance its visual appeal and sweetness.

Pairing your dish with a creamy beverage like a latte or a cappuccino can create a delightful breakfast or brunch experience. Alternatively, a glass of cold milk or a refreshing iced coffee complements the richness of the bake perfectly, making for a cozy, indulgent treat.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy again, simply reheat individual servings in the microwave for a quick treat or pop them back in the oven at a low temperature to restore their crispy top.

For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled but uncooked croissant bake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for a delicious last-minute dessert.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your Warm Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Bake to suit your taste. For a deeper flavor profile, try adding a splash of coffee or espresso to the custard mixture. This small addition can enhance the chocolate notes and make the dish even more decadent.

If you want to experiment with different textures, swap out the hazelnuts for other nuts like walnuts or pecans. You could also add a layer of cream cheese for a rich, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the chocolate hazelnut spread. The possibilities are endless, encouraging creativity in the kitchen!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of bread?

Yes, you can substitute croissants with brioche or any other soft bread.

→ Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free croissants or bread to make this dish gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the bake the night before and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with this bake?

This dish pairs well with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.