Nothing is more satisfying than making your own bakery-style goodies. Making your own almond croissants at home will save you money, and I have a feeling they will taste better than the ones you can purchase at Starbucks.
A yeast-risen dough is often used to make croissants. Butter is initially spread over the dough before it is rolled. Lamination is the process of repeatedly folding it. The dough is then divided into triangles, rolled into a crescent, and baked. The flaky texture and airy shape of croissants are a result of the lamination process.
There are many different varieties of croissants, and of them is almond croissants. If you love having almond croissants in your breakfast and want to make your own, check the step-by-step almond croissants recipe below.
A Brief Overview of the Croissant’s History
The croissant is a popular French pastry that is enjoyed all around the world. Its distinctive crescent shape and flaky, buttery texture make it a beloved treat for many. Here’s a brief history of the croissant:
Origins in Austria: Contrary to popular belief, the croissant did not originate in France. Its origins can be traced back to Austria in the 13th century. The croissant’s predecessor was a crescent-shaped pastry called kipferl, which was made with yeast dough and shaped into a crescent.
Introduction to France: In 1770, Marie Antoinette, the Austrian-born queen of France, introduced the kipferl to the French court. French bakers then adapted the pastry to their own tastes and created the croissant we know today.
Rising Popularity: The croissant grew in popularity throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, both in France and internationally. It became a symbol of French culture and cuisine.
Modern Variations: Presently, there are many several variations of the croissant. Some are filled with chocolate, almond paste, or other flavors. Others are made with different types of dough, such as whole wheat or sourdough.
The croissant’s history is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and culinary innovation. Despite its Austrian origins, the croissant has become an iconic French pastry that is cherished all over the world.
Related: What To Do With Leftover Almond Meal? (Quick Ideas)
How To Make Almond Croissants
The traditional breakfast pastry, the almond croissant features a sweet almond filling or frangipane woven into the dough and roasted almonds baked directly into the top. In this recipe, you can make your day-old croissants or you can use croissants from the store to make the almond croissant.
But before we started this recipe, make sure you have the tools needed to make an almond croissant recipe such as measuring cups and spoons, a mixing bowl, a serrated knife, a small saucepan, a baking sheet, parchment paper, a pastry brush, and sugar sifter.
Croissants
Ingredients:
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 50g granulated sugar
- 10g salt
- 300ml warm milk
- 10g instant yeast
- 250g unsalted butter, cold
- 1 egg, beaten
- 3 Tbsp sliced almonds
- powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the warm milk and instant yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture, and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Shape the dough into a ball and cover it with a damp towel. Let it rest in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
- After the dough has rested, take it out of the refrigerator and roll it out into a rectangular shape. Place the cold butter in the center and fold the dough over the butter, sealing the edges.
- Roll out the dough again into a long rectangle and fold it into thirds. This completes one turn. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Repeat this process two more times for a total of three turns. This will create flaky layers in the croissant.
- After the final turn, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Cut the dough into triangles and roll each one up into a crescent shape.
- Place the croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the croissants with the beaten egg and let them rest for about 2 hours until they have doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the croissants for 15-20 minutes, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Let the croissants cool for a few minutes before serving.
Filling For Almond Croissants
- Using Whole Almonds
In the bowl of a food processor, add 1/2 cup sugar, 2/3 cup almonds, and 1/8 tsp salt. Process until the ingredients are finely crushed. After adding the butter, stir everything together once more. One at a time, add the eggs and process at high speed until the mixture is frothy and creamy.
- Using Almond Flour or Almond Meal
Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1 cup almond meal, and 1/8 tsp salt in the bowl of a stand mixer with the whisk attachment. Add the butter after thoroughly incorporating. When everything is creamy and fluffy, add the eggs, one at a time, and mix on medium/high speed until they are all incorporated.
Making The Syrup
In a saucepan, mix the sugar, water, and vanilla essence. Stir continuously, and bring to a boil. After two minutes of boiling, turn off the heat.
Assemble The Almond Croissants
- Prepare the croissants. Cut the croissants lengthwise, but stop short of completely through and set aside.
- Brush the syrup inside the croissants using a pastry brush. Spread the frangipane filling over the croissant’s inside after adding it.
- After closing it, spread the syrup on the top and edges of the croissant.
- Spread a bit more of the frangipane filling over the croissant’s top. Spread a tablespoon of almond slices on top and lightly press them down.
- Bake the croissants. On a baking sheet covered with parchment paper, arrange the croissants. Bake till golden brown at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Sprinkle powdered sugar over the croissants, then enjoy them while they’re still warm.
Read more: Almond Flour Vs Flour: What Are The Differences?
Tips For Making Almond Croissants
1) If using day-old croissants – Since they will be simpler to cut if they are a little stale. However, don’t be concerned if they become overly dry after baking. In fact, stale croissants are revived by the sugar syrup.
2) Avoid stuffing the croissants excessively with frangipane since it might leak out when baking, despite how alluring it may be. You only need 2 teaspoons of filling per croissant.
3) If you have leftover frangipane filling you can use it in several recipes including stuffed French toast, muffins, and others. Unused Frangipane can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks in an airtight container.
4) Cut the croissants almost to the edge but stop there. Avoid cutting all the way through. This will aid in keeping the filling inside the croissant and stop it from spilling out the sides.
Storing Almond Croissants
Croissants with almond filling are to be kept on the counter in an airtight container. Although they will last for up to two days, they will eventually dry out.
Reheating Almond Croissants
In a 325°F oven, reheated almond croissants for 5 to 10 minutes. They taste great at room temperature as well.
How Many Calories in an Almond Croissant
The number of calories in an almond croissant can vary depending on the size and the recipe used. On average, a small almond croissant contains around 300-400 calories, while a larger one can contain up to 600-700 calories.
It’s worth noting that almond croissants are generally high in fat and sugar, which can contribute to the total calorie count. If you are watching your calorie intake, it’s best to consume almond croissants in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.
FAQs
Do freshly baked croissants work?
When making this recipe, it’s best to use croissants that are a day old. They are simpler to cut as a result. With freshly baked croissants, however, the almond croissants recipe will work. Just a little bit more difficult to manage.
Can I substitute another nut flour for the almond flour?
Of course, you can! Additionally, you can experiment with various extract flavors to help your choice of nut flour.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
It is recommended to bake and consume the filled and assembled croissants right away. On the other hand, leftover croissants can remain on the counter for up to two days.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making almond croissants recipe at home is a challenging but rewarding endeavor that requires patience, skill, and attention to detail. The process involves several steps, including preparing the dough, shaping the croissants, and filling them with almond cream. While the recipe may seem daunting at first, with practice and experience, anyone can master the art of making almond croissants at home.
To make the perfect almond croissant, it is essential to use high-quality ingredients, such as butter, flour, and almonds, and follow the recipe instructions closely. Be sure to give the croissants enough time to rise and bake them until they are golden brown and crispy.
Overall, making almond croissants at home can be a fun and delicious way to impress your friends and family. Whether you are an experienced baker or a novice, following a step-by-step recipe and the details will help you create the perfect batch of almond croissants every time. We hope you enjoy this recipe!