Almond Croissants Recipe

Introduction

Almond croissants are a delightful treat that combines flaky, buttery pastry with a rich almond filling. Perfect for breakfast or an indulgent snack, this recipe transforms day-old croissants into an irresistible almond pastry delight.

Ingredients

• 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
• Toppings:
  • 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: Make the simple syrup by whisking together water, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract in a small pot. Heat over medium heat until the mixture boils and the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Step 3: Prepare the almond filling by beating the unsalted butter and almond paste together using a hand or stand mixer until smooth. Add the eggs, cornstarch, and vanilla extract, then mix until fully combined.
4. Step 4: Slice each croissant in half lengthwise. Brush the inside of each half with simple syrup.
5. Step 5: Spread 1 to 2 tablespoons of almond filling on the bottom half of each croissant. Replace the tops and brush the tops with simple syrup.
6. Step 6: Spoon about 1/2 tablespoon of almond filling on top of each croissant and press sliced almonds onto the filling.
7. Step 7: Bake the croissants for 12 to 13 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
8. Step 8: Serve warm, at room temperature, or cold based on your preference.

Tips & Variations

• Use day-old croissants for best texture; fresh ones may be too soft to hold the filling well.
• For extra almond flavor, add a splash of amaretto to the almond filling.
• If almond paste is unavailable, you can substitute with marzipan, though it’s sweeter and softer.
• Toast the sliced almonds lightly before topping to enhance their crunch and flavor.

Storage

Store leftover almond croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in a low oven (around 300°F / 150°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh croissants instead of day-old?

Day-old croissants work best because they are slightly stale, which helps them hold the filling without becoming soggy. Fresh croissants can be used but may be softer and not hold their shape as well.

What is almond paste, and can I make it at home?

Almond paste is a sweet blend of ground almonds and sugar used in baking. It differs from marzipan by being less sweet and coarser. You can make a simple version at home by blending ground almonds with sugar and a small amount of egg white or syrup to bind.

Almond Croissants Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 513 reviews

Enjoy these delightful Almond Croissants featuring a rich almond frangipane filling and a crisp, buttery croissant base. This recipe uses day-old croissants brushed with a homemade vanilla-almond simple syrup, layered with creamy almond paste filling, topped with sliced almonds, and baked to golden perfection before a light dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a decadent snack.

• Author: Luna
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 13 minutes
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Yield: 8 almond croissants 1x
• Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Croissants

• 8 croissants (day old)

Simple Syrup

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

Almond Filling

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 8 oz almond paste
• 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Toppings

• 1 cup sliced almonds
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

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 water, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Heat over medium heat until the mixture boils and the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
3. Prepare Almond Filling: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the unsalted butter and almond paste together until smooth and well combined. Add the eggs, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the mixture is uniform and creamy.
4. Assemble Croissants: Slice each croissant in half lengthwise. Brush the inside surfaces of both halves lightly with the cooled simple syrup to enhance moisture and flavor. Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of the almond filling onto the bottom half of each croissant and spread evenly.
5. Reassemble and Top: Place the top halves back on the filled croissants. Brush the tops with the simple syrup as well. Then, add about 1/2 tablespoon of almond filling on top of each croissant and press sliced almonds gently into the filling to ensure they stick during baking.
6. Bake: Arrange the croissants on the prepared baking sheets and bake in the preheated oven for 12-13 minutes or until they turn golden brown and the almond topping is toasted.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the croissants to cool for a few minutes after baking. Dust with powdered sugar before serving. These croissants can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or chilled according to your preference.

Notes

• Use day-old croissants for best texture; fresh croissants may become too soft when baked again.
• Almond paste can be found in specialty baking stores or online; ensure it is smooth for easy mixing.
• Brush the croissants gently with simple syrup to avoid sogginess but enhance flavor and moisture.
• Sliced almonds add a crunchy texture, but you can substitute with slivered almonds if preferred.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.

Keywords: almond croissants, almond paste croissant, frangipane filling, baked croissants, breakfast pastry, almond dessert