Description
These Almond Croissants offer a delightful twist on the classic French pastry, featuring a rich almond cream filling and a sweet almond syrup glaze. Perfectly baked to a golden finish with a crisp almond topping and dusted with powdered sugar, they make an elegant breakfast or dessert treat that is easy to prepare at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Croissants and Toppings
- 4 day-old croissants
- 2 tablespoons sliced almonds
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Almond Cream (Frangipane)
- ½ cup almond flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 large eggs (divided)
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Simple Syrup
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
- Make the Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in the almond extract. Allow the syrup to cool before using to brush on the croissants.
- Make the Almond Cream (Frangipane): In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add one egg along with the almond extract and mix well to combine. Gradually stir in the almond flour and all-purpose flour until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Prepare the Croissants: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice each croissant horizontally in half. Using a brush, coat the inside surfaces of each croissant half with the cooled almond simple syrup to add moisture and flavor.
- Assemble the Croissants: Spread about 2 tablespoons of the almond cream onto the bottom half of each croissant. Replace the top halves and then spread an additional tablespoon of almond cream on top of each croissant. Sprinkle sliced almonds evenly over the top for a crunchy texture.
- Bake: Arrange the croissants on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are golden in color and the almond cream on top appears slightly crisp around the edges.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the croissants from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Before serving, dust generously with powdered sugar to add a touch of sweetness and an elegant finish.
Notes
- Day-old croissants are ideal as they absorb the almond syrup without becoming soggy, enhancing the texture and flavor.
- These almond croissants are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon snack paired well with coffee or tea.
