When I first baked this croissant Nutella bread pudding, it was for a rainy Sunday brunch with friends. I remember tearing up day-old croissants, smearing each buttery layer with Nutella, then soaking them in rich vanilla custard. As it baked, the aroma filled my Asheville kitchen—warm sugar, toasted bread, and chocolate-hazelnut heaven. The first bite? Like a cozy hug in dessert form.
This isn’t just any chocolate croissant pudding—it’s the kind of Nutella dessert that turns leftovers into luxury. You get golden, crisp croissant tops and a soft, custardy center that melts on your tongue. Whether you’re hosting brunch or ending a dinner party on a sweet note, this baked croissant pudding wins every time.
Best of all? It’s easy to prep the night before. You wake up, bake it, and serve. No stress. Just joy.
If you’ve already fallen for Nutella croissants, this pudding takes things up a notch. Want the nutrition breakdown? Our Nutella croissant nutrition facts page has you covered. Craving the simple combo that started it all? The classic croissant Nutella recipe is right here waiting.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Croissant Nutella Bread Pudding
What is Croissant Nutella Bread Pudding?
Croissant Nutella bread pudding is the ultimate upgrade to classic bread pudding. It layers flaky croissants with creamy Nutella, then bakes them in a smooth egg custard until golden. The result? A cross between a pastry and a pudding—crispy on top, rich and gooey inside. This Nutella croissant bread pudding is warm, deeply comforting, and full of indulgent textures.
It’s the best bread pudding recipe when you want something that looks impressive but feels like home.
Why This Dessert Is Trending Worldwide
This croissant dessert idea is everywhere for good reason. It uses simple ingredients—leftover croissants, eggs, milk, and Nutella—but the flavors explode with bakery-style elegance. Social feeds love it because it photographs beautifully, but home bakers keep returning to it because it delivers every time.
In cafés from Paris to LA, the chocolate croissant pudding has become a weekend favorite. It’s the kind of dessert you make once and crave again instantly.
And since it’s an easy dessert with croissants, even beginners can nail it. Whether you call it a Nutella custard dessert or baked croissant pudding, the magic is always the same: comfort, ease, and serious flavor.
Key Ingredients for Croissant Nutella Bread Pudding
Base Ingredients
To make a flawless croissant Nutella bread pudding, start with these kitchen staples. Each ingredient adds richness, texture, or structure—don’t skip a thing.
Here’s what you’ll need for one 9×13-inch baking dish:
- 6 large croissants, preferably 2–3 days old (about 10–12 ounces total)
- ¾ cup Nutella (or your favorite chocolate-hazelnut spread)
- 4 large eggs
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
These are pantry basics that turn into a Nutella custard dessert once combined. And using stale croissants helps them soak up the creamy custard without falling apart.
Want to try this with other desserts for your brunch table? Our Southern Peach Buttermilk Pound Cake adds a lovely fruity balance to rich dishes like this.
Optional Enhancements
Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to play. These extras bring complexity, crunch, or seasonal flair. Pick one or two—or mix and match!
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for warmth)
- 1 ripe banana, sliced (adds sweetness and softness)
- ½ cup fresh berries (blueberries or raspberries work best)
- 2 tablespoons caramel drizzle (for finishing)
- 1 tablespoon Frangelico or dark rum (for a boozy hint)
- ¼ cup chopped toasted hazelnuts or walnuts
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
Adding elements like berries or nuts elevates this croissant nutella bread pudding into the best bread pudding recipe for any occasion. You could even give it a seasonal spin, like we do with our red velvet waffle cake—a great companion on holiday dessert tables.
Step-by-Step Instructions
You’ve got your croissants and creamy custard ready—now it’s time to bake up that rich, Nutella-filled magic. Follow these steps to create a baked croissant pudding that’s golden on top, soft in the middle, and impossible to resist.
1. Preheat and prep the dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Slice and spread the croissants
Take your 6 stale croissants and slice them in half horizontally. Spread a thin layer of Nutella (about 1 tablespoon) on the inside of each half. Close the halves like little sandwiches.
3. Cut into pieces
Cut each croissant sandwich into 3–4 pieces. You’ll end up with chunky bites packed with Nutella.
4. Whisk the custard
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- 4 eggs
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Whisk until smooth and frothy—this custard makes every bite of the croissant nutella bread pudding luxuriously tender.
5. Layer the dish
Arrange the croissant pieces in the buttered baking dish. Pour the custard evenly over the top. Press the pieces gently with a spatula so they soak up that rich custard.
6. Add toppings (optional)
Sprinkle with berries, chocolate chips, or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
7. Bake to perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil, then bake uncovered for another 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set but still soft.
8. Serve warm
Let it cool slightly before serving. Add a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel for the ultimate finish.
That’s it—you’ve got a stunning Nutella dessert ready to impress.
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Croissant Nutella Bread Pudding
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Croissant Nutella bread pudding combines flaky croissants with rich Nutella and creamy custard for a warm, indulgent dessert or brunch showstopper.
Ingredients
- 6 large croissants (2–3 days old)
- ¾ cup Nutella
- 4 large eggs
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅛ tsp salt
- Optional: 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ cup berries, ¼ cup chopped nuts, 2 tbsp caramel drizzle
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Slice croissants and spread with Nutella; close like sandwiches.
3. Cut into chunks and layer in baking dish.
4. Whisk eggs, cream, milk, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
5. Pour custard over croissants and press gently.
6. Let soak for 15 minutes, then bake covered for 25 minutes.
7. Uncover and bake 15–20 more minutes until golden and set.
8. Cool slightly before slicing and serve warm.
Notes
Use stale croissants for better texture.
Can be assembled 24 hours in advance.
Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.
Substitute with brioche or use plant-based milk for dairy-free version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Pro Tips for Perfect Croissant Nutella Bread Pudding
Want to make your croissant Nutella bread pudding the kind everyone asks for again and again? These pro-level tricks ensure a perfect balance of texture and flavor every time.
1. Use stale croissants
Day-old croissants absorb custard better than fresh ones. Their drier texture soaks up liquid without falling apart, making the final dish tender—not soggy.
2. Mix cream and milk for balanced richness
Go for a 60% cream and 40% milk ratio. It creates a velvety custard without making your baked croissant pudding overly heavy.
3. Let it soak before baking
After pouring the custard over your croissant pieces, let the dish sit for 10–15 minutes. This gives the bread time to fully absorb the liquid for a creamier interior.
4. Add spice for extra depth
A pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder gives your Nutella custard dessert deeper flavor and a subtle warmth that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
5. Bake in a bain-marie (water bath)
For ultra-silky results, set your dish in a larger baking pan and pour in hot water halfway up the sides. This gentle baking method prevents curdling and keeps the texture smooth.
6. Let it rest before slicing
Cool for 10–15 minutes after baking. It firms up the custard slightly, giving you clean slices and making it easier to serve during brunch or holiday gatherings.
With these pro tips, your croissant nutella bread pudding won’t just be good—it’ll be unforgettable.
Variations of Croissant Nutella Bread Pudding
Once you’ve nailed the classic croissant Nutella bread pudding, there’s endless room to play. Whether you’re working with what’s in your kitchen or looking to wow at a holiday brunch, these fun twists let you make this dessert your own.
Using Brioche, Challah, or Other Pastries
Don’t have croissants? No problem. This baked croissant pudding adapts beautifully to other breads and pastries.
- Brioche: Soft, rich, and eggy—soaks up custard like a sponge.
- Challah: Slightly sweet with a chewy bite, perfect for contrast.
- Leftover cinnamon rolls or donuts: For a seriously indulgent version, use pastries that are already sweet and spiced.
Adding Fruits, Nuts, or Chocolate Chips
Customize your croissant dessert ideas with tasty mix-ins:
- Sliced bananas or berries for freshness
- Toasted hazelnuts or pecans for crunch
- Mini chocolate chips for extra gooeyness
- Coconut flakes or caramel drizzle for a tropical or sweet edge
The goal is balance—layer sweet with texture, soft with crisp.
Seasonal Twists (Pumpkin Spice, Holiday Flavors)
Turn this Nutella dessert into a seasonal staple with subtle changes:
- Pumpkin spice + canned pumpkin in the custard for fall brunches
- Orange zest + dried cranberries for a wintery, festive bite
- Chopped Easter chocolates or candy mixed in for spring treats
- Peppermint or crushed candy canes on top for a holiday twist
Think of it as the best croissant nutella bread pudding with a flavor calendar. Adjust it to suit the season or occasion—and never get bored with the same version twice.
Make-Ahead and Storage Guide
One of the best things about croissant Nutella bread pudding? It’s completely make-ahead friendly. Whether you’re hosting brunch or prepping desserts for the week, this baked croissant pudding adapts beautifully.
Assembling Croissant Bread Pudding Ahead of Time
You can fully assemble your dish up to 24 hours in advance.
- Just layer the Nutella croissants, pour the custard over, and cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld and the bread absorb every drop.
- When ready to bake, set the dish out for 20–30 minutes to come to room temperature, then bake as usual.
This make-ahead trick is perfect for holidays or busy mornings.
Refrigeration and Freezing Tips
Once baked and cooled, croissant Nutella bread pudding stores like a champ:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic and foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
This Nutella dessert becomes a great meal-prep breakfast or weeknight treat when portioned and frozen.
Reheating Without Losing Texture
Want that just-baked texture back? Try these quick methods:
- Oven: Reheat covered at 300°F for 10–15 minutes (or uncovered for more crisp).
- Microwave: Heat individual slices in 30-second bursts until warm, though the crust won’t be as crisp.
Avoid overheating—it’ll dry out the custard. And always reheat from fully thawed if frozen.
Dietary Adaptations
Good news—your favorite croissant Nutella bread pudding can work for many diets. Whether you’re avoiding gluten, skipping dairy, or just looking for healthier croissant dessert ideas, here’s how to adjust the recipe without giving up flavor.
Gluten-Free Croissant Bread Pudding Options
Yes, gluten-free croissants exist—and they’re better than ever.
- Look for gluten-free croissants at natural food stores or online. Brands like Schär and Whole Foods often carry them.
- Make sure to let them dry out slightly before baking to mimic the texture of day-old croissants.
- Use the same Nutella custard dessert recipe—no changes needed to the custard itself.
This swap makes a chocolate croissant pudding that’s safe and still decadent.
Dairy-Free and Vegan Variations
Need a plant-based version? Totally doable.
- For the custard: Use canned coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk. Choose barista versions for added creaminess.
- For eggs: Try flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg), or use a commercial egg replacer.
- For Nutella: Pick a vegan-friendly chocolate-hazelnut spread—many are dairy-free.
Even with substitutions, you’ll still get the same cozy, gooey result. Just skip the whipped cream topping or go for a coconut-based version.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
Croissant Nutella bread pudding isn’t just a treat—it’s a moment. With the right toppings, drinks, and presentation, you can transform this easy dessert with croissants into a bakery-worthy showstopper.
Best Toppings: Whipped Cream, Caramel, or Powdered Sugar
What you put on top can elevate every bite:
- Freshly whipped cream adds lightness that balances the custard’s richness.
- Salted caramel drizzle intensifies the dessert’s sweet, nutty notes.
- A dusting of powdered sugar offers that bakery-fresh look with no extra effort.
- For a chocolate lover’s dream, shaved dark chocolate adds drama and depth.
You can also serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for contrast. It melts into the crevices, blending beautifully with the creamy custard.
Pairing with Drinks: Coffee, Hot Chocolate, or Dessert Wine
This Nutella dessert pairs beautifully with both cozy and elegant drinks:
- A strong cappuccino or espresso cuts through the sweetness.
- Hot chocolate creates a double-chocolate experience—perfect for winter brunches.
- For dinner parties, try a small glass of ruby port or late harvest wine to highlight the chocolate notes.
Let your pairing set the tone—casual morning or evening indulgence.
Presentation Tips for Dinner Parties
Want to impress guests?
- Slice neatly after cooling, then warm briefly before serving.
- Plate individually with a spoonful of whipped cream and a sprig of mint.
- Drizzle sauce on the plate (not just the pudding) for a restaurant-style look.
Even if it’s just for yourself, presentation turns this croissant Nutella bread pudding into a moment worth savoring.
FAQs About Croissant Nutella Bread Pudding
Can I use brioche or other pastries?
Absolutely. While croissants give the flakiest texture, brioche, challah, or even cinnamon rolls make excellent swaps in croissant Nutella bread pudding. Just ensure they’re slightly stale to soak up custard well. Brioche creates a softer, eggier base, while challah offers a rich, chewy bite.
Can this be assembled ahead?
Yes, and that’s part of the magic. You can fully assemble your croissant Nutella bread pudding up to 24 hours ahead. Store it covered in the fridge, then bake it the next morning. It’s a perfect make-ahead Nutella dessert for brunch or holidays.
How do I avoid soggy croissants?
Use day-old croissants—they’re dry enough to hold their shape once soaked. Don’t rush the bake: cover for the first half to cook evenly, then uncover to crisp the top. And let the dish rest after pouring in custard—soaking helps everything set just right.
Are gluten-free or dairy-free options possible?
Definitely. Use gluten-free croissants (available in specialty stores) and swap in plant-based milk or cream like oat or coconut. For a dairy-free chocolate spread, several vegan Nutella alternatives taste just as rich. With a few tweaks, everyone can enjoy this cozy treat.
Final Thoughts on Croissant Nutella Bread Pudding
There’s something magical about transforming day-old croissants and a jar of Nutella into a dessert that feels indulgent, nostalgic, and effortless all at once. This croissant Nutella bread pudding hits all the right notes—crispy, creamy, chocolatey, and full of heart. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, whether you’re hosting brunch, celebrating a birthday, or just craving a sweet ending to your weekend.
From its buttery base to its custard-soaked center, this Nutella dessert delivers comfort in every bite.
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