Valentines Breakfast Chocolate Croissants

Name: Valentines Breakfast Chocolate Croissants
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 croissants
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon instant yeast; 3/4 cup cold unsalted butter; 1/2 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon cold water

Highlighted under: Baking Moments

I absolutely adore starting my Valentine's Day with these decadent chocolate croissants. The combination of flaky, buttery pastry with rich chocolate is simply irresistible! Every bite melts in your mouth and brings a touch of indulgence to the morning. I love making these croissants from scratch, as the aroma of fresh dough and chocolate fills my kitchen. It's a delightful way to surprise my loved one on this special day. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a cherished tradition in your home.

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:34:16.392Z

When I first attempted to make these croissants, I was puzzled by the folding technique, but with practice, I learned that the key is to keep the butter cold and the dough well-chilled. Each fold gives the pastry its flaky layers, which is what makes these croissants so special. The burst of chocolate inside paired with the buttery exterior is simply divine!

What I found most satisfying was seeing the golden-brown crust form as they baked. To elevate the experience further, I like to sprinkle a little sea salt on top right before they come out of the oven; it enhances the sweetness of the chocolate beautifully. These croissants are perfect for a cozy Valentine's breakfast or brunch.

Why You'll Love These Croissants
Flaky pastry enveloping gooey chocolate pieces.
Easily customizable with your favorite fillings.
Perfect for sharing on a special morning.

The Role of Cold Butter

Using cold unsalted butter is crucial for achieving that flaky texture characteristic of croissants. When the butter is chilled, it creates steam during baking, which causes the layers of dough to separate and rise. This results in a light and airy pastry. If the butter warms up, it can blend into the dough rather than remaining in distinct layers, leading to a denser croissant. I recommend slicing the butter into small cubes to help it integrate more evenly without warming up too much.

If you don't have unsalted butter on hand, you can substitute it with salted butter, but be mindful to adjust the added salt in the recipe. The flavor profiles may change slightly, but the texture will remain true to the recipe.

Perfecting the Rolling Technique

Rolling and folding the dough is essential for creating the signature layers in croissants. When rolling out the dough, aim for a consistent thickness of about 1/4 inch. If the dough becomes too warm, place it back in the refrigerator for another 15 minutes to chill. This will keep the butter firm and ensure the layers maintain their structure. The process of rolling out and folding should be repeated at least three times; this guarantees numerous flaky layers in the final croissants.

After rolling the dough into a rectangle, don't overwork it—this can develop too much gluten, resulting in a less tender croissant. Keep an eye on the edges; they should be smooth and straight rather than ragged, as this makes for easier cutting and shaping.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover croissants, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to one month. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. This ensures that they retain their flaky texture.

For an extra special touch, consider warming them with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top. The heat will melt the sugar slightly, adding a lovely glaze and sweetness that perfectly complements the chocolate filling.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious croissants:

Ingredients for Croissants

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon instant yeast
3/4 cup cold unsalted butter
1/2 cup milk
1 large egg
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1 tablespoon cold water

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your chocolate croissants:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add milk and mix until a dough forms. Knead briefly, then cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Roll and Fold

On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle. Fold the dough into thirds, then roll it out again. Repeat this process two more times, chilling for 15 minutes between each rolling.

Shape the Croissants

Cut the rolled dough into triangles. Place a few chocolate chips near the base of each triangle, then roll them up from the base to the tip. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Finalize and Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the croissants with a mixture of beaten egg and water. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.

Allow the croissants to cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, serve these croissants with a dusting of powdered sugar or alongside fresh fruit. Experiment with different types of chocolate for various flavors!

Serving Suggestions

These chocolate croissants are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience with a variety of accompaniments. Serve them with a side of fresh fruit for a burst of color and flavor. Strawberries, raspberries, or even a citrus salad add brightness and balance to the richness of the croissants.

For a cozy brunch, consider pairing these croissants with a rich hot chocolate or a smooth vanilla latte. A drizzle of caramel or a dusting of powdered sugar can also enhance their appeal, making for an eye-catching presentation.

Variations on the Classic

While the traditional chocolate filling is divine, you can experiment with different flavors as well. Try substituting chocolate chips for dried fruits like cherries or apricots, which add a tangy contrast to the rich, buttery dough. If you're feeling adventurous, nut butters like almond or hazelnut also work wonderfully, providing a unique twist while maintaining that creamy filling texture.

For a savory option, consider filling the croissants with components like ham and cheese, or even spinach and feta before rolling. These variations can make for a stunning brunch spread and are sure to impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the day before and refrigerate it overnight. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling.

→ What if I don't have instant yeast?

You can substitute it with active dry yeast, but you'll need to activate it in warm milk for about 5-10 minutes before mixing it into the dough.

→ Can I freeze the uncooked croissants?

Absolutely! Simply prepare them up to the point of baking, then freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What are some good fillings to use?

In addition to chocolate, you can use almond paste, hazelnut spread, or even fruit preserves for a delightful twist!