Homemade Chocolate Croissants - Flaky and Buttery Pastry Recipe
Making your own homemade chocolate croissants (pain au chocolat) may seem like a challenge, but it’s actually a rewarding process that fills your kitchen with the smell of freshly baked pastry. The buttery, flaky layers with a rich chocolate filling are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a special treat. With a bit of time and patience, you can recreate this French classic at home.
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup warm milk
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 8 sticks of dark chocolate or ½ cup chocolate chips
Directions
Prepare the dough. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the warm milk and stir until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Incorporate the butter. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle. Place the cold butter between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound it flat with a rolling pin until it’s about ⅓ inch thick. Lay the butter in the center of the dough and fold the dough edges over the butter like an envelope.
Roll and fold. Roll the dough out into a long rectangle and fold it into thirds like a letter. Turn the dough 90 degrees and roll it out again, then fold it into thirds. Repeat this process twice more, then wrap the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Shape the croissants. Roll the dough out one last time into a large rectangle. Cut it into 8 triangles. Place a stick of chocolate or a few chocolate chips at the wide end of each triangle and roll them up tightly, tucking the point under the croissant. Arrange on a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each croissant.
Proof and bake. Cover the croissants and let them rise for 1 hour until doubled in size. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops with a beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.
Recipe tips
Make sure your butter stays cold throughout the process for perfect, flaky layers. For extra richness, add a sprinkle of sea salt on the chocolate before rolling the croissants. Serve them warm for the best taste—reheating them briefly in the oven will bring back that fresh-baked feel.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Who can resist the warm, gooey comfort of freshly baked cinnamon rolls? This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through making soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls from scratch. Perfect for breakfast or as an indulgent snack, these rolls are filled with a rich cinnamon-sugar mixture and topped with a smooth cream cheese glaze. Whether you're an experienced baker or new to the kitchen, these cinnamon rolls are sure to impress.
Delight your friends and family with these light, airy cream puffs filled with rich vanilla pastry cream. Whether you’re hosting a special event or simply craving something sweet, these cream puffs will hit the spot. They’re surprisingly simple to make and will impress with their elegant presentation. The delicate choux pastry forms a crisp shell that’s filled with creamy custard or whipped cream. Once you learn the basics, you can experiment with different fillings or toppings.
If you're craving something sweet with a tangy twist, these Lemon Bars will hit the spot! A buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread crust topped with a smooth, zesty lemon filling. They're the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making them ideal for a light dessert or afternoon treat. This simple recipe can be whipped up in under an hour and is guaranteed to brighten your day with a burst of citrus flavor.
These delicious apple turnovers are perfect for when you want a warm, sweet treat. The flaky pastry filled with soft, cinnamon-spiced apples is a comfort food favorite. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or just indulging yourself, these turnovers are surprisingly easy to make. You can enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save them for a snack later.
Who can resist a classic cherry pie with its golden, flaky crust and sweet-tart cherry filling? This homemade pastry recipe will take your pie to the next level. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baker, you'll love how simple yet rewarding this recipe is. The rich, buttery crust pairs perfectly with juicy cherries, making it a treat that is ideal for any occasion.
Snickerdoodles are a classic, soft, and chewy cookie coated in cinnamon sugar. The cookies have a slightly tangy flavor, thanks to a touch of cream of tartar, and their cinnamon coating gives them a warm, comforting taste that’s perfect for any time of year. Whether you're making these for a holiday party, an after-school snack, or just craving something sweet, this easy-to-follow recipe will give you delicious homemade snickerdoodles in no time.
There's nothing like a warm, freshly baked blueberry muffin to start your day or enjoy as a snack. These muffins are soft, fluffy, and packed with juicy blueberries. Perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or even a sweet treat for lunchboxes. Made with simple ingredients, they’re a breeze to whip up, even for beginner bakers. You'll love how light and flavorful they are, with just the right amount of sweetness and a burst of berry goodness in every bite!
These Puff Pastry Tarts are light, flaky, and endlessly versatile. Whether you're filling them with fresh fruit for a breakfast treat or savory toppings for a snack, they come together quickly and bake into golden, crispy perfection. Perfect for any time of day, they’re an excellent recipe to keep in your back pocket for when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Warm, gooey, and packed with rich pecan flavor, these Pecan Sticky Buns are the perfect indulgence for a special breakfast or brunch. The soft, buttery dough swirled with cinnamon and sugar, then topped with a luscious caramel-pecan sauce, creates a treat that melts in your mouth. Whether you're hosting a holiday breakfast or simply treating yourself, these sticky buns will quickly become a favorite!
A Raspberry Danish is a delicate and flaky pastry with a sweet raspberry filling, perfect for breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack. The buttery, golden crust is topped with a simple glaze, giving it the perfect balance of sweet and tart. This homemade recipe is easy to follow and will make your kitchen smell heavenly as the pastries bake. Enjoy the fresh burst of raspberry flavor with every bite!
Baklava is a rich, sweet dessert made from layers of crispy phyllo dough, filled with a spiced nut mixture, and drenched in a honey-sugar syrup. This Middle Eastern and Mediterranean classic is perfect for special occasions and will impress guests with its flaky texture and indulgent flavors. While it might seem complex, with some patience, you can easily prepare this delightful treat at home.
A Cheese Danish is a delightful pastry that pairs a buttery, flaky crust with a smooth, creamy cheese filling. It's the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making it a favorite for breakfast, brunch, or a mid-afternoon snack. While it may seem like a treat you'd only buy from a bakery, this recipe will show you how easy it is to make your own at home. You’ll impress your family and friends with this light, flaky pastry filled with a rich cream cheese filling.
A Chef Salad is a classic, refreshing dish that brings together crisp greens, savory meats, cheeses, and a variety of vegetables. This hearty salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. It’s versatile, customizable, and packed with flavor. The combination of textures and tastes makes it a favorite for those who want a delicious, nutritious meal in a short amount of time.
Red Velvet Cake is a classic dessert with its deep red color and velvety texture that makes it perfect for special occasions or simply indulging in a delicious homemade treat. With a hint of cocoa, tangy cream cheese frosting, and a moist crumb, this cake is both flavorful and visually striking. Whether you're making it for a holiday, a celebration, or just because, this recipe will guide you through creating a perfect Red Velvet Cake at home.
Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that combines layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers with a rich and creamy mascarpone filling, topped with a dusting of cocoa powder. This no-bake dessert is perfect for anyone who loves a blend of sweet, creamy, and slightly bitter flavors. It's easy to make, and with a bit of chill time, the flavors come together beautifully.
If you're craving a comforting, home-cooked meal, these juicy and flavorful meatballs are the perfect solution. They are easy to prepare, versatile, and can be served with a variety of dishes, such as spaghetti, mashed potatoes, or even as a filling in a sandwich. This recipe is perfect for anyone who enjoys cooking their own meals, offering a blend of savory spices and tender meat. Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, you'll find these meatballs easy to make and absolutely delicious.
This Farro Salad is the perfect blend of chewy, nutty grains and fresh, colorful veggies. It’s satisfying and wholesome, making it an excellent dish for lunch or a light dinner. The farro provides a hearty base, while the crunchy veggies and zesty lemon dressing add layers of flavor. It’s easy to prepare and stores well, so you can make it ahead for meal prep or picnics.
Looking for a fresh and vibrant salsa recipe to elevate your meals? This homemade salsa is a perfect blend of ripe tomatoes, tangy lime juice, and a hint of spice that will add a burst of flavor to any dish. Whether you're dipping chips or topping tacos, this salsa is a must-have in your kitchen. It's quick to prepare and tastes much better than anything you can buy at the store.
The Old Fashioned is a timeless classic cocktail that’s simple, yet elegant. Made with just a few ingredients, this drink is rich, smooth, and packs a punch of whiskey flavor balanced by a touch of sweetness and bitterness. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or entertaining guests, the Old Fashioned is the perfect drink for any occasion. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you can recreate this sophisticated cocktail in just a few minutes.
Chili Con Carne is a hearty and comforting dish packed with rich flavors of beef, tomatoes, beans, and a blend of spices. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or as a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. It’s easy to make, filling, and can be customized to your taste—spicy, mild, or somewhere in between. Serve it with rice, tortilla chips, or enjoy it on its own.
Garlic knots are a delightful and savory treat that’s perfect for any occasion. These soft, fluffy knots are brushed with a garlic-butter sauce and sprinkled with fresh parsley, making them a delicious accompaniment to any meal. Whether you're serving them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a snack, garlic knots are sure to be a hit with everyone. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients.
Beef fajitas are a flavorful and hearty dish, perfect for a casual family dinner or a lively get-together with friends. Marinated strips of beef are seared to perfection, combined with sautéed bell peppers and onions, then wrapped in warm tortillas. The mix of spices, lime, and fresh vegetables gives these fajitas a zesty, smoky flavor that everyone will love. Serve with your favorite toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for a complete, satisfying meal.
This refreshing cucumber salad is light, crisp, and perfect for a quick, healthy side dish. With the right balance of tangy and sweet, it's ideal for any meal or occasion. The combination of thinly sliced cucumbers, red onions, and a simple vinaigrette dressing creates a dish that's both flavorful and satisfying. Great for summer picnics, barbecues, or a simple weekday lunch, this cucumber salad is as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
This moist and flavorful Carrot Cake is packed with freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. It's the perfect dessert for any occasion, offering a balance of sweetness and spice, along with a soft texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you're making it for a family gathering or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this carrot cake will never disappoint.
Hummus is a creamy, flavorful dip made from blended chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. It's a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and has become a popular choice for those looking for a healthy and delicious snack or appetizer. The smooth texture and rich taste make it a versatile dish that pairs well with vegetables, pita bread, or as a spread in sandwiches.
This homemade beef gravy is rich, savory, and perfect for pairing with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or any meat dish. It’s made from simple ingredients, yet delivers a depth of flavor that elevates any meal. By using the pan drippings from your roast, you can create a hearty, flavorful sauce that brings comfort to the table. Whether you're serving a holiday meal or a weeknight dinner, this beef gravy is a must-have!
Tzatziki is a refreshing Greek yogurt dip that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, pita, or fresh vegetables. It's creamy, tangy, and bursting with the flavor of fresh cucumber and garlic. Tzatziki is quick to make and is a must-have for Mediterranean meals or as a healthy, cooling snack. Its simple ingredients and vibrant flavors make it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round.
This creamy and flavorful Bean Dip is the perfect party appetizer or snack. Made with hearty beans, zesty spices, and smooth cream cheese, it’s a delicious dip that pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies. Quick to prepare and loaded with flavor, it’s an ideal option for entertaining or satisfying a midday craving.
There's nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of creamy, cheesy mac and cheese. This homemade version is simple, flavorful, and perfect for anyone looking to whip up a delicious meal in no time. Forget the boxed stuff; this rich and creamy mac and cheese will quickly become your go-to recipe. Whether you're preparing it for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch, this dish hits all the right notes.
Popcorn is a quick and easy snack that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re watching a movie, need a light snack, or want something crunchy to satisfy your cravings, this homemade popcorn recipe is just what you need. With just a few ingredients and a few minutes, you’ll have freshly popped kernels that are deliciously crisp and ready to be enjoyed. This recipe is simple enough for anyone to make, yet it delivers the classic taste of popcorn that everyone loves.
Crab cakes are a delightful way to enjoy fresh crab meat, bringing out its natural sweetness with just the right amount of seasoning. This recipe is easy to follow and results in crispy, golden cakes that are tender and flavorful on the inside. Perfect for a special lunch, dinner, or even an elegant appetizer, these crab cakes are sure to impress your guests or satisfy your own seafood cravings. The combination of breadcrumbs, spices, and a hint of lemon enhances the taste without overpowering the delicate crab meat.
New England Clam Chowder is a creamy, comforting dish packed with fresh clams, tender potatoes, and flavorful bacon. This chowder brings the taste of the sea straight to your kitchen and is perfect for chilly days. The blend of milk, cream, and clam broth creates a velvety soup that's hearty enough for lunch or dinner. A few key ingredients and simple cooking methods make this chowder a must-try for those who want to cook their own comforting, homemade soup.