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Easy Panera Chocolate Croissant Recipe

Panera Chocolate Croissant Recipe

Let’s talk about Panera’s chocolate croissant and how it can magically complement various flavors. Picture this: a crisp, flaky pastry filled with rich chocolate, perfectly paired with a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing fruit smoothie. 
Prep Time: 12 hours 45 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 13 hours 5 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: French
Keyword: Panera Chocolate Croissant Recipe
Servings: 16 Servings
Calories: 282kcal
Author: Bex Smith

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl

Ingredients

Dough Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon active dry or instant yeast
  • 1/4 cup superfine sugar
  • 1 and 1/2 cups chilled whole milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour plus extra for rolling and shaping
  • 2 teaspoons sea salt
  • 1 bar dark chocolate roughly chopped (semi-sweet or bittersweet)

Butter Layer:

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 and 1/2 cups unsalted butter softened

Egg Wash:

  • 2 tablespoons whole milk
  • 1 large egg

Optional for Dusting:

  • Powdered sugar for a light dusting at the end

Instructions

  • Let’s break it down, step by step, for clarity.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast, sugar, and warm milk. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This indicates the yeast is active and ready to go.

Step 2: Create the Dough Mix

  • Add the softened butter, flour, cinnamon, and sea salt into the milk mixture. Stir until combined. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth. It should take about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

  • Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm area for about 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Butter Layer

  • In a separate bowl, mix the flour and brown sugar with the softened butter. This butter layer is crucial for creating those delicious, flaky layers.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

  • Once the dough has risen, roll it out onto a floured surface into a large rectangle. Place the butter mixture in the center, folding the dough over it.

Step 6: Laminate the Dough

  • Roll out the dough again into a rectangle, then fold it into thirds like a letter. Repeat this process two more times, refrigerating the dough for about 30 minutes between each fold. This step is key for creating the flaky layers.

Step 7: Shape the Croissants

  • Roll out the dough one last time. Cut it into triangles and place a chunk of chocolate at the wide end. Roll the dough towards the tip, making a crescent shape.

Step 8: Allow to Rise Again

  • Place the shaped croissants on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover them and let them rise for about 45 minutes.

Step 9: Brush and Bake

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix the egg and milk to create an egg wash, brushing it over the croissants. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 10: Dust and Serve

  • Once baked, allow them to cool slightly. A dusting of powdered sugar can optional but highly recommended for that beautiful presentation.

Notes

Here are some tips to make your chocolate croissants even better:
  • Use Cold Ingredients: Keeping your ingredients cold is essential for flaky layers. This includes your butter and any liquids.
  • Quality Chocolate is Key: Choose a good quality chocolate that you enjoy. Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate works well for a rich flavor.
  • Don’t Rush the Rising: Allow the dough enough time to rise. This ensures a light and airy croissant.
  • Try Different Fillings: While chocolate is classic, feel free to experiment with almond paste or fruit preserves for delightful variations.
  • Prepare in Advance: You can make the dough a day ahead. Just let it chill in the fridge overnight and shape it in the morning.
 

Nutrition

Serving: 82g | Calories: 282kcal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 14.1g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 319mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g
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