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Flaky Golden-Brown Pain au Chocolat

Homemade golden-brown Pain au Chocolat with flaky layers and rich chocolate filling, ideal for breakfast or snacks.

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Homemade golden-brown Pain au Chocolat with flaky layers and rich chocolate filling, ideal for breakfast or snacks.

Pain au Chocolat, commonly enjoyed during breakfast or as a sweet snack, is a staple of French patisserie. Its golden-brown, flaky exterior gives way to a rich, warm chocolate interior, making it a cherished choice for many. In this recipe, you will learn to create fluffy layers that melt in your mouth, enveloping sumptuous chocolate that tantalizes the taste buds. Perfect for both novices and seasoned bakers, this recipe proves that homemade pastries can be both fun and rewarding.

Originating from France, Pain au Chocolat has roots that extend to the 19th century. French bakers cleverly combined traditional pastry techniques with chocolate, creating a beloved breakfast item that has since spread worldwide. In fact, it is often mistaken for its cousin, the croissant, yet the two have distinct differences. While croissants are shaped into a crescent, Pain au Chocolat features a rectangular shape, making it even more appealing. This pastry embodies the essence of French culinary tradition and showcases the craftsmanship behind pastry making.

Pain au Chocolat is suitable for numerous occasions, from leisurely Sunday breakfasts to elegant brunch gatherings. It can be the star of a celebratory breakfast or a comforting snack during the afternoon. Additionally, this pastry can be a fantastic treat for guests at holiday gatherings or as part of a homemade gift. With its universal appeal, it’s sure to bring smiles to all who taste it, making it a perfect addition to any menu.

Homemade golden-brown Pain au Chocolat with flaky layers and rich chocolate filling, ideal for breakfast or snacks.

Flaky Golden-Brown Pain au Chocolat

Recipe by Mary Clarkson

Difficulty

Intermediate

Servings

12 servings

Prep time

90 Mins

Cooking time

20 Mins

Ingredients

  • 500g all-purpose flour
  • 250g unsalted butter (chilled)
  • 50g granulated sugar
  • 10g salt
  • 25g fresh yeast
  • 250ml lukewarm water
  • 100g dark chocolate (broken into pieces)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

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Instructions

  1. Prepare the dough by mixing flour, salt, sugar, yeast, and water. Knead until smooth.
  2. Roll the dough into a rectangle and fold in chilled butter, creating layers.
  3. Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes, then roll out again.
  4. Cut the rolled dough into rectangles, placing chocolate pieces in the center.
  5. Fold the dough over the chocolate, sealing the edges well.
  6. Let the pastries rise for 1 hour in a warm spot until doubled in size.
  7. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
  8. Brush the tops with egg wash before baking for a golden finish.
  9. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
  10. Allow the pastries to cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

320

Carbs

36

Protein

6

Fats

18