Chocolate Filled Breakfast Croissants
Highlighted under: Simple Baking Collection
I absolutely love starting my mornings with these delightful Chocolate Filled Breakfast Croissants. They are incredibly easy to make and are such a treat to bite into. The flaky, buttery pastry combined with the rich, melted chocolate is an indulgent way to kick off the day. I often prepare them on weekends for my family, and the joy on their faces when they take that first bite is priceless. Plus, they can be ready in just under 30 minutes, making them perfect for a quick yet luxurious breakfast.
When I first attempted these croissants, I wasn’t sure if I could achieve that bakery-quality flakiness. But after a few attempts, I discovered that using chilled dough and a generous amount of chocolate made all the difference. Rolling them carefully created those delightful layers that everyone loves. The combination of buttery dough and ooey-gooey chocolate is an experience I can never resist!
Each time I bake these, the aroma fills my kitchen and promises a delicious breakfast ahead. I recommend letting them cool slightly before serving. The wait is challenging, but trust me, it’s worth it to experience that perfect melty chocolate filling as you indulge. Pair them with a cup of coffee, and you're set for the day!
Why You'll Love These Croissants
- Flaky pastry that you can't resist
- Rich chocolate filling that satisfies your sweet tooth
- Perfectly pairs with coffee or tea for a morning treat
Perfecting Your Puff Pastry
The key to achieving wonderfully flaky croissants is in the handling of the puff pastry. When rolling it out on a floured surface, aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch. This ensures that when the croissants rise in the oven, the layers separate beautifully, creating that desired flaky texture. If you find your pastry too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 10 minutes before cutting; this makes it easier to work with and helps maintain its structure during baking.
Additionally, make sure to store any unrolled puff pastry sheets in the fridge until you are ready to use them. Exposure to warm temperatures can cause the dough to become sticky, which can lead to tearing. Keeping the pastry cold is essential for achieving the perfect rise. Once you've cut your triangles, if you notice they are beginning to soften, pop them back in the refrigerator for 5-10 minutes to relax before filling.
Achieving the Golden Finish
A beautifully golden, crisp exterior is what sets these croissants apart. For the perfect glaze, the egg wash is crucial. Make sure to whisk the egg and milk mixture until fully combined. When brushing the croissants, use a pastry brush to apply the egg wash gently; this helps achieve an even color. Be careful not to let the wash drip onto the baking sheet, as it can cause spots that don't brown properly.
Baking temperatures also matter. Preheating your oven to the correct temperature helps the croissants puff up quickly. Watch them closely during the last few minutes to avoid darkening the tops too much. The croissants are ready when they are golden brown and have a glossy sheen, which indicates that the egg wash has cooked to perfection.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients before you start:
Ingredients
- 1 package of puff pastry (2 sheets)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Chocolate Filled Breakfast Croissants:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets one at a time. Cut each sheet into 4 triangles.
Fill the Croissants
Place a tablespoon of chocolate chips at the wider end of each triangle. Carefully roll them up towards the pointed end, making sure the chocolate is enclosed.
Prepare the Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush this mixture over the croissants for a golden finish.
Bake
Place the croissants on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top before baking. It enhances the chocolate's sweetness beautifully.
Storage and Reheating Tips
These Chocolate Filled Breakfast Croissants are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider wrapping individual croissants tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in the freezer. They can last for up to a month this way.
When ready to enjoy your frozen croissants, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake them directly from the freezer for about 15-20 minutes. This reheating method will restore their flaky texture while warming the chocolate filling inside, making them taste like they were just baked.
Variations to Try
While the chocolate filling is undoubtedly a treat, feel free to get creative! Substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate or even white chocolate for a different flavor profile. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking, which enhances the chocolate's richness and adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
Another fun variation is to incorporate some fruit. Sliced strawberries or raspberries can be added alongside the chocolate in the croissant. Just ensure any additional filling doesn't overpower the chocolate. You can also experiment with flavored chocolate, such as orange or mint, to elevate the taste further.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze these croissants?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
→ What can I substitute for chocolate chips?
You can use chopped chocolate bars or Nutella for a different filling option.
→ How do I store leftover croissants?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them the night before and bake them fresh in the morning.
Chocolate Filled Breakfast Croissants
I absolutely love starting my mornings with these delightful Chocolate Filled Breakfast Croissants. They are incredibly easy to make and are such a treat to bite into. The flaky, buttery pastry combined with the rich, melted chocolate is an indulgent way to kick off the day. I often prepare them on weekends for my family, and the joy on their faces when they take that first bite is priceless. Plus, they can be ready in just under 30 minutes, making them perfect for a quick yet luxurious breakfast.
Created by: Serena Whitaker
Recipe Type: Simple Baking Collection
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 8 croissants
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 package of puff pastry (2 sheets)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets one at a time. Cut each sheet into 4 triangles.
Place a tablespoon of chocolate chips at the wider end of each triangle. Carefully roll them up towards the pointed end, making sure the chocolate is enclosed.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush this mixture over the croissants for a golden finish.
Place the croissants on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top before baking. It enhances the chocolate's sweetness beautifully.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g