Valentines Breakfast Chocolate Croissants

Name: Valentines Breakfast Chocolate Croissants
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 croissants
Ingredients: 1 package of puff pastry (thawed); 200g dark chocolate (or chocolate chips); 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash); Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love starting my Valentine’s Day with a touch of elegance and indulgence, and these chocolate croissants are a perfect fit. The buttery, flaky pastry enveloping rich, melty chocolate creates a delightful surprise with each bite. It’s a recipe that combines love and flavor, turning a simple breakfast into a celebration. When I serve these, the smiles and satisfied sighs from my loved ones say it all. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to prepare, making them a go-to for any special occasion!

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:04:13.202Z

Every Valentine’s Day, I want to create something special yet effortless, and these chocolate croissants have become my cherished tradition. When I first tried making them from scratch, I was surprised at how simple the process was. The secret lies in using store-bought puff pastry, which cuts down on prep time dramatically while still delivering a homemade touch.

The excitement of cutting into these pastries and seeing the gooey chocolate center never fails to delight. I discovered that letting the croissants rest for just a few minutes after baking allows the chocolate to set slightly, creating the perfect decadence without the mess. It’s an easy recipe that truly elevates the breakfast table!

        Why You'll Love These Croissants
        Decadent chocolate hidden inside flaky pastry
Perfect for sharing with loved ones on Valentine’s Day
Easily customizable with a variety of fillings

      

Mastering Puff Pastry

Puff pastry is the star of this recipe, providing that iconic flaky texture we all love. It’s essential to keep your pastry cold until you’re ready to bake. Warm pastry can lead to a soggy croissant instead of a crisp one. When rolling it out, aim for an even thickness of about 1/8 inch. If you notice your pastry becoming soft, pop it back in the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm up before proceeding.

When cutting your triangles, precision is key. Aim for equal sides for even baking and uniformity. You can adjust the size of the triangles based on how large you want your croissants to be—larger triangles will yield bigger croissants, while smaller ones will create delightful mini versions perfect for a brunch spread. Just be mindful that baking times may vary slightly.

Choosing the Right Chocolate

The choice of chocolate makes all the difference in flavor. Dark chocolate provides a rich, sophisticated taste that complements the buttery pastry beautifully. Look for a high-quality chocolate with at least 70% cacao for a more intense flavor. If using chocolate chips, opt for semi-sweet or bittersweet varieties, ensuring they melt well for that gooey center.

For those wanting to experiment, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the croissants right before baking. This simple addition can elevate the flavor, creating a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the chocolate. You could also fill the croissants with almond paste or Nutella, providing a new spin that’s still incredibly decadent.

Perfecting Your Croissant Technique

The rolling process is crucial for achieving that beautiful croissant shape. As you roll the triangles, make sure to roll tightly, but not so much that the pastry begins to tear. The tight roll encourages the layers to puff up beautifully in the oven, leading to a light and airy texture. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes before baking; this short resting time helps the layers relax, promoting an even bake.

For a glossy finish, don't skip the egg wash! Brushing the croissants just before baking gives them a beautiful golden color and enhances the flaky texture. If you want to add even more flair, you can sprinkle some chopped nuts or chocolate shavings on top just before baking for a gourmet touch.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your chocolate croissants.

Ingredients

1 package of puff pastry (thawed)
200g dark chocolate (or chocolate chips)
1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Make sure to preheat your oven and prepare your workspace before you start rolling out the pastry!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your beautiful chocolate croissants.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Pastry

Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into triangles.

Add Chocolate

Place a piece of chocolate at the wide end of each triangle and roll it up tightly, starting from the wide end.

Egg Wash

Brush each croissant with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake

Place croissants on the baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve

Let them cool for a few minutes, then dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.

Enjoy these delightful croissants with your favorite morning beverage!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

These croissants can be assembled a few hours in advance. Once you've rolled and shaped them, simply place the unbaked croissants on the baking sheet and cover them with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 4 hours. When you're ready, simply brush with the egg wash and bake them straight from the fridge; they may need an additional minute or two in the oven.

For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled croissants. Once shaped, place them on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to a month. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, keeping an eye on their color to ensure they reach that perfect golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

These chocolate croissants are best served warm. Pair them with fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, to balance out the richness. You might also consider a light drizzle of raspberry coulis or a dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant touch that enhances the presentation.

For a themed breakfast, serve them alongside a variety of pastries and drinks, such as mimosas or flavored coffees. Creating a beautiful display not only makes breakfast feel special but allows your loved ones to sample different tastes, making it a Valentine’s Day to remember.

Troubleshooting Your Croissants

If your croissants don’t rise as expected, it could be due to the puff pastry being too warm during assembly or insufficient chilling time in the fridge before baking. Always keep an eye on the temperature of the pastry; if it’s soft and difficult to work with, chill it again.

A common issue can also be overbaking, leading to dry interiors. Start checking them a minute or two earlier than the recipe suggests. You’re looking for a golden brown color, with the chocolate starting to ooze just slightly. If you’re unsure, err on the side of underbaking slightly, as they will continue to cook from residual heat once out of the oven.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of chocolate?

Absolutely! You can experiment with milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even Nutella.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.

→ Can I freeze the croissants?

Yes! You can freeze assembled but unbaked croissants. Just bake them directly from the freezer for a few extra minutes.

→ What can I pair these with?

They go wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a glass of bubbly for a special brunch!