Almond Croissants Recipe

Introduction

Almond croissants are a delightful twist on the classic pastry, filled with a rich almond frangipane and topped with crunchy sliced almonds. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, this recipe transforms day-old croissants into a bakery-worthy treat in just over half an hour.

Ingredients

• 8 croissants (day old)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 8 oz almond paste
• 2 eggs
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup sliced almonds
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. Step 2: To make the simple syrup, combine sugar, water, almond extract, and vanilla extract in a small pot. Heat over medium heat, whisking until the mixture boils and sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Step 3: For the almond filling, beat the unsalted butter and almond paste together using a hand or stand mixer until smooth. Add eggs, cornstarch, and vanilla extract, then mix until fully combined.
4. Step 4: Cut each croissant in half lengthwise. Brush the inside of both halves with some simple syrup to moisten.
5. Step 5: Spread 1 to 2 tablespoons of almond filling on the bottom half of each croissant, then place the top half back on.
6. Step 6: Brush the tops of the croissants with simple syrup, spoon about 1/2 tablespoon of almond filling on top, and press sliced almonds onto the filling.
7. Step 7: Bake the croissants for 12–13 minutes, until golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
8. Step 8: Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled according to your preference.

Tips & Variations

• Use day-old croissants for better texture; fresh croissants may become too soft when filled.
• If almond paste is unavailable, finely ground almonds mixed with sugar and a bit of butter can be a substitute.
• Brush the croissants generously with syrup to keep them moist and flavorful.
• For a richer filling, add a teaspoon of rum or brandy to the almond mixture.
• Try using chopped pistachios instead of sliced almonds for a different nutty flavor.

Storage

Store leftover almond croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days and reheat gently in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to restore crispness. These croissants can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw at room temperature and warm before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh croissants instead of day-old ones?

Day-old croissants are preferred because they hold up better to the soaking syrup and filling without becoming too soggy. Fresh croissants may fall apart or become overly soft after filling.

What is almond paste and where can I find it?

Almond paste is a sweet, thick mixture made from ground almonds and sugar. It is often found in the baking section of grocery stores or specialty shops. If unavailable, you can make a simple substitute by blending finely ground almonds with powdered sugar and a little butter.

Almond Croissants Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 74 reviews

• Author: Julian
• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

These homemade Almond Croissants are a delightful twist on the classic pastry, filled with a rich almond frangipane and topped with sliced almonds and powdered sugar. Perfectly flaky on the outside with a sweet, nutty filling inside, they make an elegant treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base

• 8 croissants (day old)

Simple Syrup

• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp almond extract

Almond Filling

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 8 oz almond paste
• 2 eggs
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Topping

• 1 cup sliced almonds
• powdered sugar, for dusting

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Make Simple Syrup: In a small pot, whisk together the sugar, water, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat until the mixture boils and the sugar completely dissolves. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
3. Prepare Almond Filling: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the unsalted butter and almond paste together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, cornstarch, and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Cut Croissants: Slice each croissant in half lengthwise carefully to create two halves without tearing them.
5. Brush Croissants: Lightly brush the inside of each croissant half with the prepared simple syrup to add moisture and flavor.
6. Fill Croissants: Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of the almond filling onto the bottom half of each croissant evenly.
7. Reassemble Croissants: Place the top halves back onto the filled bottom halves to form complete croissants. Then brush the tops with additional simple syrup.
8. Add Topping: Spoon approximately half a tablespoon of almond filling on top of each croissant. Press sliced almonds onto this topping to adhere.
9. Bake: Place the croissants on the prepared baking sheets and bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 13 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and the filling is set.
10. Cool and Serve: Allow the croissants to cool for a few minutes after baking. Dust the tops generously with powdered sugar. Serve warm, at room temperature, or cold according to preference.

Notes

• Day-old croissants work best as they hold shape better and absorb the filling nicely without getting soggy.
• You can find almond paste in most grocery stores near the baking section or specialty stores.
• Store leftover croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
• For a crispier finish, you can briefly broil the croissants after baking for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 13 minutes
• Category: Pastry
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Keywords: almond croissants, almond frangipane, croissant recipe, French pastry, almond paste croissants, homemade croissants