Croissants With Almond Filling

Name: Croissants With Almond Filling
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 croissants
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/2 cup water, ice cold; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 teaspoons instant yeast; 1 cup almond flour; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Sliced almonds for topping

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Ideas

I absolutely love crafting croissants, especially when they're filled with a delectable almond cream. The buttery, flaky layers provide the perfect backdrop to the sweet, nutty filling, making for a heavenly breakfast or dessert. I find that the combination of the rich almond paste and the soft pastry creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is simply irresistible. Each bite transports me to a quaint Parisian bakery, and the best part is that with practice, anyone can master the art of making these croissants at home.

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:59:34.507Z

When I first attempted to make croissants with almond filling, I was unsure what to expect. After a few tries, I realized that creating the perfect dough is all about patience and temperature control. I recommend letting the dough rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour after folding in the butter to achieve that ideal flakiness.

Using quality ingredients is crucial—choose fine almond flour and pure almond extract for the filling. The result is a croissant that not only smells divine while baking but also tastes better than anything you could buy at a store. You'll feel proud when you share them with friends and family!

Why You'll Love These Croissants
Rich almond flavor balanced with buttery pastry
Flaky layers that melt in your mouth
Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat

Understanding the Dough

The dough for these croissants is a crucial element that gives them their signature flaky texture. It’s important to keep the butter cold while handling the dough, as this ensures distinct layers. If the butter warms up too much, it will meld with the flour rather than creating pockets. An effective technique is to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture is crumbly, ensuring that the chunks remain visible. This technique lays the groundwork for the extraordinary flakiness that will develop during baking.

When rolling out the dough, be cautious not to apply too much pressure which can compress the layers. A light touch allows the butter to remain intact, which is essential for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth consistency. Aim for a thickness of about a quarter inch when rolling it out and make sure to keep the dough in a rectangular shape. If the dough becomes too warm while rolling, place it back in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes; chilling helps the butter set and maintain the structure.

Mastering the Almond Filling

The almond filling not only enhances the croissants with rich flavor but also adds to their moisture. Using almond flour offers a subtle nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the buttery pastry. If you don't have almond flour on hand, you can pulse blanched almonds in a food processor until finely ground, ensuring a smooth consistency. While mixing, achieve a creamy texture by properly incorporating the softened butter and powdered sugar for an airy filling that doesn't weigh down the croissant.

For those with nut allergies, feel free to substitute sunflower seed flour or even coconut flour, though the results will differ slightly. Remember to adjust sugar levels as natural sweetness varies between flours. If you'd like to infuse more flavor into the filling, consider adding a hint of vanilla extract or a splash of coffee for a unique twist that complements the almond flavor delightfully.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Dough Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 cup water, ice cold
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons instant yeast

Almond Filling Ingredients

1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Sliced almonds for topping

Once you have everything ready, it’s time to start assembling!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your almond-filled croissants:

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add the ice-cold water and mix until a dough forms. Knead lightly on a floured surface. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.

Make the Almond Filling

In a bowl, mix almond flour, powdered sugar, softened butter, and almond extract until smooth. Set aside.

Roll Out the Dough

After chilling, roll out the dough into a large rectangle. Fold it into thirds (like a letter) and roll out again. Repeat this process two more times to create layers.

Shape the Croissants

Cut the dough into triangles. Place a spoonful of almond filling at the wide end, then roll tightly towards the point. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Croissants

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush croissants with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sliced almonds. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Let them cool slightly before serving—enjoy your homemade croissants!

Pro Tips

For a more intense flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the almond filling. Also, ensure your ingredients are at the right temperatures for the best results!

Serving Suggestions

These croissants are delightful when served warm, allowing the almond filling to retain its creamy texture. Drizzle a bit of honey or a light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the finished croissants for added sweetness and visual appeal. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a light herbal tea, making for an ideal breakfast or brunch item.

For a decadent dessert, consider serving the croissants alongside fresh berries or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warmth of the croissants combined with chilled ice cream creates a delightful contrast that’s sure to impress. Each bite offers layers of flavour and texture, elevating your serve to a café-worthy experience at home.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover croissants, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature. For longer storage, consider wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag; they can be frozen for up to a month. Let them thaw at room temperature before reheating.

To reheat, simply place the croissants in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes to restore their flakiness and warmth. For extra crispness, place them under the broiler for the last minute. This method helps maintain the texture and prevents sogginess, ensuring each bite tastes freshly baked.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the croissants before baking?

Yes, you can freeze them after shaping. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.

→ What if I can't find almond flour?

You can blend blanched almonds in a food processor until finely ground as a substitute.

→ Can I use a different filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with chocolate, fruit preserves, or even a savory filling.

→ How long do baked croissants last?

Baked croissants are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.