With summer in full swing, I can’t think of a better way to pair a lazy Sunday brunch than with a good cup of coffee and a warm almond croissant. Picture this: the sun shining through your kitchen window, the fresh scent of coffee brewing, and these delightful pastries hot out of the oven. Trust me, there’s something magical about the buttery, flaky layers combined with the nutty sweetness that makes a morning feel extra special. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just treating yourself, these almond croissants are sure to impress.
Almond croissants are a beloved French pastry known for their flaky layers and intoxicating almond flavor. They take those day-old croissants hanging out in your kitchen and transform them into something out of a patisserie. With a creamy almond filling, a luscious syrup to soak in, and crunchy sliced almonds on top, this recipe brings a taste of France right to your home. You don’t need to be a pastry chef to make these; all you need are some basics and a little patience!
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What is Almond Croissant Recipe?
An almond croissant is essentially a classic butter croissant filled with almond cream, often made from almond meal and butter. In this recipe, we reinvent stale croissants into a delightful treat by soaking them in a flavored syrup and stuffing them with a sweet almond paste. The toppings usually include powdered sugar and sliced almonds, adding texture and visual appeal.
How Does It Taste Like?
The taste of an almond croissant is heavenly. Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, flaky exterior only to discover a rich, creamy filling inside that bursts with almond flavor. It’s nutty and sweet, with the slight crunch of almond slices on top, making every bite a celebration of textures, from crunchy to velvety smooth. A hint of buttery goodness rounds out the flavor profile, making it an irresistible treat for breakfast or dessert.
Why You’ll Love This?
You’ll love this recipe because it’s indulgent yet simple. It takes stale croissants, often overlooked the next day, and gives them a second chance at glory. Plus, it’ll impress your family and friends! The combination of flavors is delightful, and it’s perfect as an easy, make-ahead option for gatherings or just that mid-week pick-me-up.
The Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
– 8 large, slightly stale croissants, left uncovered at room temperature overnight
– 3 tablespoons sliced almonds for topping
– Powdered sugar for dusting
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 tablespoons rum (you can substitute this with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
– 1 cup water
– ½ cup granulated sugar (for the almond filling)
– 1 cup almond flour (or you can blend your own from 2/3 cup whole blanched almonds)
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened and sliced
– 2 large eggs
– New Ingredient: 1 teaspoon of almond extract for more intense flavor (optional)
– New Ingredient: Zest of one lemon for a refreshing brightness
How to Make Almond Croissant Recipe?
This recipe is straightforward, with just several easy steps. You’ll prepare a syrup, whip up the almond filling, soak the croissants, and finally bake them to golden perfection. Let’s dive right into the steps!
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Syrup
Start by pouring the 1 cup of water into a small saucepan and adding the 3 tablespoons of sugar along with the 4 tablespoons of rum (or vanilla extract if you prefer). Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Stir it for a minute until the sugar completely dissolves. Once it’s nicely combined, remove it from heat and set aside to cool to room temperature. This syrup is what transforms the croissants from stale to sensational, giving them all the moistness they’ll need.
Step 2: Create the Almond Filling
For the almond filling, it depends on your choice of using whole almonds or almond flour. If using whole almonds, toss 2/3 cup of blanched almonds, ½ cup granulated sugar, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt into a food processor. Pulse until the almonds are finely ground. Next, add in 8 tablespoons of softened butter and mix until the blend is smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time, processing until you achieve that lush, creamy texture.
If you’re opting for almond flour, grab your stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Combine ½ cup sugar, 1 cup almond flour, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Mix until all is incorporated. Then blend in the softened butter followed by the eggs, one at a time. You’ll want to mix this on medium-high speed until it’s creamy and fluffy, similar to frosting. Don’t forget to add the optional teaspoon of almond extract and lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor!
Step 3: Assemble the Croissants
Now, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a clean counter, take your croissants and slice them horizontally as if you’re preparing a sandwich.
Work with one croissant at a time: dip it into the prepared syrup, making sure to coat both sides and the ends. You want it moist—not drenched! After dipping, place it cut side up on the baking dish.
Step 4: Fill and Top the Croissants
Spread about 2 tablespoons of your almond filling on the bottom half of each croissant. Then, place the top half back on and spread roughly 1 tablespoon of the filling over it. Top with a sprinkle of sliced almonds for added crunch and beauty.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Bake the assembled croissants in your preheated oven for about 15 to 18 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden color. The smell will be intoxicating! Transfer them to a wire rack and let them cool—just slightly; they are best enjoyed warm. Just before serving, dust with powdered sugar for that extra touch of sweetness.
Tips On Making Almond Croissant Recipe
– Use Day-Old Croissants: For the best texture, stale croissants are preferable as they absorb the syrup better without turning mushy.
– Chill the Filling: If the butter in your filling gets too soft, refrigerate it for a few minutes to get it back to a spreadable consistency.
– Don’t Skip the Syrup: This step is crucial—it keeps the croissants from being dry and gives them that bakery-fresh flavor.
– Add Variations: Feel free to include chocolate chips or dried fruits into the almond filling for a fun twist.
– Monitor the Baking Time: Every oven is different; keep an eye on the croissants to prevent burning.
Storage Tips
These almond croissants are best enjoyed the same day they’re made. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F oven for about 5-10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Just avoid microwaving them, as they might turn soggy.
Nutrition Information
Each almond croissant contains approximately 350 calories. They are a treat filled with carbohydrates and fats from the butter and almond, making them a delicious yet indulgent option. You also get a bit of protein from the eggs and shoulders of almond meal, but these pastries should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Serving Suggestions
– Pair with Coffee: Enjoy these croissants with your favorite brew, whether that’s a dark roast or a frothy cappuccino.
– Fresh Fruit: Serve a side of fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, to balance the richness.
– Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for a dessert-like experience.
– Ice Cream Sandwiches: Slice them in half and fill them with vanilla or almond ice cream for a decadent treat.
– Brunch Spread: Include them on a brunch table alongside other pastries, muffins, and fruit for a delightful spread.
What Other Substitute Can I Use in Almond Croissant Recipe?
– Coconut Cream for Butter: Swap out unsalted butter with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
– Maple Syrup for Sugar: Use maple syrup in the filling for a different sweet flavor.
– Hazelnut Flour instead of Almond Meal: If you want a twist, use finely ground hazelnuts instead of almonds.
– Pastry Cream: For a creamier filling, consider using pastry cream in place of almond filling.
– Fruity Variants: Add a bit of lemon or orange zest instead of lemon for a more fruity twist to the filling.
Conclusion
These almond croissants are a delightful way to elevate stale croissants into a delicious treat. With a little time and the right ingredients, you can recreate that café-quality pastry right in your kitchen. The combination of rich, nutty flavors and textures will surely win hearts at any breakfast or brunch gathering. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in a little slice of joy!
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Description
Almond croissants are a beloved French pastry known for their flaky layers and intoxicating almond flavor. They take those day-old croissants hanging out in your kitchen and transform them into something out of a patisserie. With a creamy almond filling, a luscious syrup to soak in, and crunchy sliced almonds on top, this recipe brings a taste of France right to your home. You don't need to be a pastry chef to make these; all you need are some basics and a little patience!
Ingredient
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Syrup
-
Start by pouring the 1 cup of water into a small saucepan and adding the 3 tablespoons of sugar along with the 4 tablespoons of rum (or vanilla extract if you prefer). Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Stir it for a minute until the sugar completely dissolves. Once it’s nicely combined, remove it from heat and set aside to cool to room temperature. This syrup is what transforms the croissants from stale to sensational, giving them all the moistness they'll need.
Step 2: Create the Almond Filling
-
For the almond filling, it depends on your choice of using whole almonds or almond flour. If using whole almonds, toss 2/3 cup of blanched almonds, ½ cup granulated sugar, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt into a food processor. Pulse until the almonds are finely ground. Next, add in 8 tablespoons of softened butter and mix until the blend is smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time, processing until you achieve that lush, creamy texture.
-
If you’re opting for almond flour, grab your stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Combine ½ cup sugar, 1 cup almond flour, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Mix until all is incorporated. Then blend in the softened butter followed by the eggs, one at a time. You'll want to mix this on medium-high speed until it’s creamy and fluffy, similar to frosting. Don’t forget to add the optional teaspoon of almond extract and lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor!
Step 3: Assemble the Croissants
-
Now, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a clean counter, take your croissants and slice them horizontally as if you’re preparing a sandwich.
-
Work with one croissant at a time: dip it into the prepared syrup, making sure to coat both sides and the ends. You want it moist—not drenched! After dipping, place it cut side up on the baking dish.
Step 4: Fill and Top the Croissants
-
Spread about 2 tablespoons of your almond filling on the bottom half of each croissant. Then, place the top half back on and spread roughly 1 tablespoon of the filling over it. Top with a sprinkle of sliced almonds for added crunch and beauty.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
-
Bake the assembled croissants in your preheated oven for about 15 to 18 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden color. The smell will be intoxicating! Transfer them to a wire rack and let them cool—just slightly; they are best enjoyed warm. Just before serving, dust with powdered sugar for that extra touch of sweetness.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
Note
- Use Day-Old Croissants: For the best texture, stale croissants are preferable as they absorb the syrup better without turning mushy.
- Chill the Filling: If the butter in your filling gets too soft, refrigerate it for a few minutes to get it back to a spreadable consistency.
- Don’t Skip the Syrup: This step is crucial—it keeps the croissants from being dry and gives them that bakery-fresh flavor.
- Add Variations: Feel free to include chocolate chips or dried fruits into the almond filling for a fun twist.
- Monitor the Baking Time: Every oven is different; keep an eye on the croissants to prevent burning.
