Croissant aux Amandes

A classic French pastry, transforming day-old plain croissants into a rich, almond-infused treat. Filled with a luscious frangipane cream, brushed with sweet syrup, and topped with crunchy sliced almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar, it's a delightful main course for a luxurious breakfast or brunch.

Prep Time: 25 min
Cook Time: 20 min
Total Time: 45 min
Servings: 4
FrenchVegetarianPescatarianSoy-FreeShellfish-FreeFish-FreeSesame-Free

Ingredients

  • 4 large Day-old plain croissants
  • 0.5 cup Granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cup Water
  • 0.5 teaspoon Almond extract
  • 0.5 cup Unsalted butter, softened
  • 0.5 cup Granulated sugar
  • 1 cup Ground almonds (almond flour)
  • 2 Large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon All-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Almond extract
  • 0.5 cup Sliced almonds
  • as needed Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. 1.

    Prepare the Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 0.5 cup granulated sugar and 0.5 cup water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in 0.5 teaspoon almond extract. Let cool completely.

  2. 2.

    Prepare the Frangipane: In a medium bowl, cream together the 0.5 cup softened unsalted butter and 0.5 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

  3. 3.

    Add the 1 cup ground almonds, 2 large eggs, 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon almond extract to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined and smooth. Do not overmix.

  4. 4.

    Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  5. 5.

    Prepare Croissants: Carefully slice each day-old croissant horizontally, almost all the way through, creating a "hinge" so it opens like a book.

  6. 6.

    Assemble: Brush the inside cut surfaces of each croissant generously with the cooled syrup.

  7. 7.

    Spread a generous amount of frangipane on the bottom half of each croissant. Close the top half over the frangipane.

  8. 8.

    Spread more frangipane over the top exterior of each assembled croissant, ensuring an even layer.

  9. 9.

    Arrange the croissants on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle generously with 0.5 cup sliced almonds.

  10. 10.

    Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the frangipane is puffed and golden brown, and the sliced almonds are toasted.

  11. 11.

    Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly on the baking sheet. Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving warm or at room temperature.

Tips

  • 💡Day-Old Croissants are Key: Using day-old croissants helps them absorb the syrup better and prevents them from becoming soggy during baking. Fresh croissants can be too soft.
  • 💡Don't Skimp on Syrup: The syrup adds moisture and sweetness, making the croissant tender and flavorful.
  • 💡Quality Ingredients: Use good quality butter and almond flour for the best flavor in your frangipane.
  • 💡Even Coating: Ensure the frangipane is spread evenly over the top of the croissants to create a beautiful, golden crust.
  • 💡Storage: Croissants aux Amandes are best enjoyed the day they are made, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in a low oven for best results.

Recipe from TheCookbook.ai

Created by Basil Roux