A Delicious Treat That My Kids Always Ask For

My kids absolutely love Chocolate Croissants. The first time I made them, it was a fun and exciting experience. The croissants turned out golden, flaky, and filled with melty chocolate—just like the ones from a bakery. The sweet smell filled the house and everyone couldn’t wait to try them. With every bite, the buttery pastry and smooth chocolate make you smile. They taste like something you’d enjoy at a fancy café, but they’re made right in your kitchen.

This recipe is simple, but the result is just amazing! You’ll love it for sure, and these croissants are the best for a perfect snack or breakfast. They’re great warm with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. You can serve them at special brunches, for cozy weekends, or make them as a gift for someone you care about.

Me and my kids enjoy them fresh out of the oven and sometimes with a bit of whipped cream on top. Some days we even drizzle a little extra chocolate over them or serve them with fresh fruit on the side. Making them together also becomes a fun family activity.

This Chocolate Croissants recipe is super easy to make at home, especially with a bit of patience and love. The dough takes time, but the final product is so worth it.

What Makes Chocolate Croissants Special?

Chocolate Croissants are special because they bring together two favorite things—flaky croissant dough and rich, melty chocolate. They’re baked to golden perfection, and when you bite into one, the crisp outside gives way to soft layers and sweet chocolate inside. It’s a simple recipe, yet it feels fancy and comforting at the same time. Every bite brings a perfect mix of texture and flavor.

Perfect For:

• School Lunches or Snacks: These croissants fit perfectly in lunch boxes or make a great afternoon snack. Kids love finding a chocolatey surprise inside.
• Weekend Breakfasts: Enjoy them during lazy mornings at home with your family. They feel special without being too complicated to prepare.
• Dessert Time: They’re also a great dessert option, served with whipped cream or ice cream. A little drizzle of extra chocolate makes them even better.
• Special Occasions: Chocolate croissants are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or brunch with guests. They look impressive and taste amazing.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 tbsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 ¼ cups warm milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)

For the Butter Layer:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (cold)

For the Filling:

• 6 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate (cut into sticks or bars)

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp milk

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Knife or pastry cutter
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Pastry brush
• Plastic wrap or a clean towel for covering the dough
• Cooling rack
• Small saucepan (if melting chocolate)

How to make Chocolate Croissants

Step 1:

Combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a bowl. Add warm milk and softened butter, mixing until a soft dough forms. Chill for 1-2 hours.

Step 2:

Place cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper and flatten into a square. Chill until firm.

Step 3:

Roll out the dough, place the butter block in the center, and fold over it. Roll and fold the dough three times, chilling between each fold for 30 minutes.

Step 4:

Roll the dough into a large rectangle and cut into small rectangles. Place chocolate sticks near one end and roll up tightly. Place seam side down on a baking sheet.

Step 5:

Let them rise at room temperature for 1.5 to 2 hours until puffy.

Step 6:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush croissants with egg wash and bake for 18–20 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7:

Let cool for a few minutes. Enjoy warm with a cup of coffee or tea.

Additional Tips

• Use cold butter and keep the dough chilled to create flaky layers. Work fast to keep everything cold while rolling.
• Chill between folds to avoid melting the butter into the dough. Resting time improves flakiness.
• Use good quality chocolate like baking bars or chocolate sticks for a rich taste. Avoid using chocolate chips which may not melt smoothly.
• Roll dough evenly to get even-sized croissants. This ensures even baking and consistent texture.
• Don’t overfill with chocolate, or it may leak out during baking. A small amount is enough.
• Let croissants rise until puffy before baking for a light texture. This also makes them look fuller and more golden.
• Apply egg wash gently for a golden, shiny crust. Use a pastry brush for best results.

Optional Ingredients

• Sea salt flakes on top for a sweet-salty combo. Adds a little crunch and contrast.
• Almond slices for a nutty crunch. Perfect for adding texture and a toasted flavor.
• Orange zest in the dough for a citrus twist. It pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
• Vanilla or almond extract in the dough for added flavor. Just a few drops make a big difference.
• Powdered sugar dusted after baking for decoration. Looks beautiful and adds sweetness.
• Cinnamon sugar is sprinkled on top before baking for a warm flavor. Great during the colder months.

How to Chocolate Croissants?

If you love warm pastries, start by making your croissant dough and chilling it well. Flatten cold butter and fold it into the dough, then roll and fold a few times to make thin layers. This step takes time, but it’s key for flakiness. Each fold adds more buttery layers, giving croissants their signature texture.

Cut the rolled dough into rectangles and place a small piece of chocolate near the edge. Roll each one tightly and place them seam-side down on a tray. Let them rise for a couple of hours in a warm spot until they puff up nicely. A light kitchen towel helps keep them protected while rising.

Brush each croissant with egg wash and bake in a hot oven until they are golden and crisp. The smell will be amazing, and the chocolate inside melts just right. Once baked, let them cool a bit before serving. You can serve them warm, and they’re even better with a cup of coffee or cocoa.

Top with a dusting of powdered sugar or even a drizzle of melted chocolate. Serve warm for the best texture and taste. You can enjoy them for breakfast, snack time, or as a sweet treat after dinner. They also reheat well, making them a convenient option for a quick indulgence.

Is Chocolate Croissants Healthy?

Chocolate Croissants are more of a treat than a healthy food. They’re made with butter, flour, and chocolate, which means they are rich in calories and fat. But they do provide energy and bring joy as an occasional indulgence. You can make small changes like using dark chocolate or a lighter dough, but croissants are best enjoyed in moderation as a delicious reward.

Variations and Substitutions

Mini Chocolate Croissants: Make smaller versions that are easier to serve at parties or to kids. These bite-sized treats are great for sharing and still full of flavor.

Nutella-Filled Croissants: Replace chocolate bars with a spoonful of Nutella for a creamy, hazelnut twist that melts perfectly during baking. It adds extra sweetness and smoothness.

Dark Chocolate Delight: Use 70% or 85% dark chocolate for a richer, less sweet taste. It’s perfect for adults who enjoy bolder chocolate flavors and less sugar.

White Chocolate Croissants: Swap in white chocolate for a sweeter and smoother filling. You can even combine it with fruit like raspberries for a unique combination.

Fruit and Chocolate Mix: Add a spoonful of jam or thinly sliced strawberries with the chocolate before rolling for a sweet and fruity center. It adds both color and flavor.

Almond Chocolate Croissants: Spread a thin layer of almond paste and place a chocolate stick on top. The nutty and chocolate combo is irresistible and very popular.

Vegan Chocolate Croissants: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate. Some store-bought puff pastry sheets are already vegan-friendly and can be used as a shortcut. Pair them with a dairy-free milk wash.

Gluten-Free Chocolate Croissants: Make or buy gluten-free dough to create a similar croissant experience for those avoiding gluten. The texture may vary but still tastes amazing.

How to Store

Store leftover chocolate croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes at 300°F (150°C) to make them crisp again. You can also wrap them individually to keep them from drying out.

For longer storage, wrap them well and freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy again, thaw and warm in the oven until heated through. They’ll still taste fresh and delicious! Freezing works best before baking, so you can bake fresh croissants any time.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought puff pastry instead of homemade dough?

Yes, store-bought puff pastry is a great shortcut. Just make sure it’s thawed and cold before you start shaping your croissants.

Why is my butter leaking out during baking?

This usually happens when the dough isn’t kept cold enough. Always chill between folds and before baking to keep the butter inside the layers.

Can I use chocolate chips instead of chocolate bars?

You can, but chocolate chips may not melt as smoothly or stay in place. Baking chocolate sticks or bars works better for even melting.

How long should I let the croissants rise before baking?

Let them rise for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they look puffy and light. Proofing properly gives them their airy texture.

Why are my croissants not flaky?

Flakiness comes from keeping the butter cold and doing the proper folds. Don’t skip chilling time, and be gentle with the dough.

Can I make these croissants dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate. Also, skip the egg wash or use non-dairy milk to brush the tops.

What’s the best way to make them look shiny and golden?

Brush the tops with a beaten egg mixed with a little milk before baking. This gives them that beautiful, bakery-style finish.

Chocolate Croissants

Recipe by Wasian CookeryCourse: BreakfastCuisine: FrenchDifficulty: Easy

Servings

12

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Total time

50

minutes

Chocolate Croissants are buttery, flaky pastries filled with rich melted chocolate, baked until golden and crisp. They’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack anytime.

Ingredients

• For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour

• ¼ cup sugar

• 1 tbsp active dry yeast

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 ¼ cups warm milk

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)

• For the Butter Layer:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (cold)

• For the Filling:

• 6 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate (cut into sticks or bars)

• For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg

• 1 tbsp milk

Directions

• Combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a bowl. Add warm milk and softened butter, mixing until a soft dough forms. Chill for 1-2 hours.
• Place cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper and flatten into a square. Chill until firm.
• Roll out the dough, place the butter block in the center, and fold over it. Roll and fold the dough three times, chilling between each fold for 30 minutes.
• Roll the dough into a large rectangle and cut into small rectangles. Place chocolate sticks near one end and roll up tightly. Place seam side down on a baking sheet.
• Let them rise at room temperature for 1.5 to 2 hours until puffy.
• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush croissants with egg wash and bake for 18–20 minutes or until golden brown.
• Let cool for a few minutes. Enjoy warm with a cup of coffee or tea.