Almond Cream Cheese Croissant
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love starting my day with a delightful Almond Cream Cheese Croissant! The combination of flaky pastry and rich cream cheese, paired with the nutty flavor of almonds, creates a breakfast treat that's hard to resist. After perfecting this recipe after several attempts, I can assure you that the process, although requiring a bit of time, is well worth the wait. Each bite melts in my mouth, giving a taste of luxury that feels like a café experience right at home.
Making Almond Cream Cheese Croissants from scratch has become one of my favorite weekend rituals. I’ve experimented with different fillings, but the almond and cream cheese combination always wins. The key is ensuring your butter is cold, which helps achieve that beautiful, flaky texture. I often find myself sneaking a taste before they even hit the table!
One pro tip I've learned is to toast the sliced almonds lightly before mixing them into the cream cheese filling. This step enhances the flavor and adds a lovely crunch. I can guarantee that your family will be raving about these croissants long after they've disappeared!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The flaky, buttery layers that are simply irresistible
- A delightful cream cheese filling that hugs every bite
- The crunchy almond topping adds texture and flavor
Mastering the Croissant Dough
The foundation of a perfect Almond Cream Cheese Croissant is the dough, which requires precise technique to achieve the desired flaky texture. When mixing the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast, ensure that the ingredients are evenly combined before adding the cold water. This step is crucial, as it affects the dough's rise. Knead just until the mixture holds together, then rest it in the fridge. A longer chill helps maintain the butter's integrity during rolling, resulting in that iconic flakiness.
During the lamination process, which involves rolling and folding the dough multiple times, you'll want to keep your workspace and tools cool. If the butter begins to soften excessively, the dough may lose its structure. If you notice this happening, simply pop the dough back into the refrigerator for a few minutes. Properly incorporating the butter is key to the light and airy layers that make croissants irresistible; look for a smooth, cohesive dough after rolling and folding.
Cream Cheese Filling Tips
For the cream cheese filling, it's essential to use softened cream cheese to ensure a smooth consistency that spreads easily without lumps. You can microwave the cream cheese for about 15-20 seconds if it’s too firm, but be cautious not to overheat it. This step will help blend the powdered sugar and vanilla extract seamlessly, creating a rich filling that harmonizes with the buttery croissant dough.
To elevate the nutty flavor and texture of the filling, be sure to toast the almond slices before adding them to the mixture. Simply place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden. This minor step deepens the nuttiness, providing a beautiful contrast to the creaminess of the filling. For a different spin, consider adding a hint of almond extract for a more pronounced flavor.
Baking and Serving Suggestions
Baking the croissants at the right temperature is crucial for achieving that golden brown exterior. Preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) ensures an even bake. Take care not to open the oven door prematurely, as fluctuations in temperature can prevent the croissants from rising properly. The goal is to have a crispy exterior and a soft, airy interior, which should take approximately 25 minutes of baking. Keep an eye on them; the moment they turn a deep, golden color, they're ready.
When it comes to serving, these croissants are best enjoyed fresh and warm. For an indulgent breakfast or brunch experience, dust them with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or serve with a side of fresh fruit. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to two days, or freeze them for longer storage. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-12 minutes—this will restore their flaky texture remarkably well.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Almond Cream Cheese Croissant.
For the Croissant Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 ¾ cups unsalted butter, cold
- 1 ½ cups cold water
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted
For Assembly
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Additional sliced almonds for topping
With these ingredients ready, you're set to start kneading your dough!
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to achieve perfectly flaky croissants!
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Gradually add cold water and mix until a dough forms. Knead lightly and shape into a ball.
Incorporate the Butter
Roll the chilled dough into a rectangle. Place the cold butter in the center, fold over the sides, and seal. Roll out again into a rectangle, then fold into thirds.
Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and toasted almond slices until well combined.
Shape the Croissants
Roll out the dough into a large rectangle and cut into triangles. Place a spoonful of the cream cheese filling at the wide end and roll tightly. Place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the croissants with the beaten egg and top with additional sliced almonds. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Enjoy your freshly baked croissants warm or at room temperature!
Pro Tips
- To keep your croissants extra flaky, handle the dough as little as possible, and ensure all ingredients are cold before starting. Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips or dried fruits to the filling for a twist!
Ingredient Substitutions
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend specifically designed for baking. However, be mindful that this may alter the texture slightly. For those watching their sugar intake, consider using a sugar substitute in the filling, keeping in mind that it should be something that measures on a 1:1 ratio for best results.
To enhance the flavor profile of your croissant, feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese filling. This twist will introduce an inviting warmth to each bite without overpowering the almond taste, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Make-Ahead and Freezing
These croissants can be prepared ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for busy mornings. After shaping the croissants and placing them on a baking tray, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, simply let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then proceed with the egg wash and baking as directed.
For longer storage, you can freeze unbaked croissants before the final rise. Place the tray in the freezer until the croissants are firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept this way for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 5-10 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your croissants turn out dense and heavy, it may be due to overworking the dough. It's essential to handle the dough gently during the lamination process to maintain the air pockets needed for lift. Be sure to allow the dough adequate resting time in the refrigerator to keep the butter firm, which is crucial for the creation of flaky layers.
Another common issue is undercooked insides, especially with a rich filling. If you find that the croissants are golden brown on the outside but gooey on the inside, consider lowering your oven temperature and increasing the baking time. This adjustment allows the heat to penetrate evenly, ensuring that even the cream cheese filling is cooked through without burning the exterior.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use pre-made puff pastry instead?
Yes, using pre-made puff pastry can save you time, but the homemade dough offers a unique flavor and texture.
→ How do I store leftover croissants?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for longer shelf life.
→ Can I freeze the croissants after baking?
Absolutely! Let them cool completely, then place in a sealed bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with these croissants?
These croissants pair beautifully with fresh fruit, jam, or a nice cup of coffee for a delightful breakfast.
Almond Cream Cheese Croissant
I absolutely love starting my day with a delightful Almond Cream Cheese Croissant! The combination of flaky pastry and rich cream cheese, paired with the nutty flavor of almonds, creates a breakfast treat that's hard to resist. After perfecting this recipe after several attempts, I can assure you that the process, although requiring a bit of time, is well worth the wait. Each bite melts in my mouth, giving a taste of luxury that feels like a café experience right at home.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 croissants
What You'll Need
For the Croissant Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 ¾ cups unsalted butter, cold
- 1 ½ cups cold water
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted
For Assembly
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Additional sliced almonds for topping
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Gradually add cold water and mix until a dough forms. Knead lightly and shape into a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Roll the chilled dough into a rectangle. Place the cold butter in the center, fold over the sides, and seal. Roll out again into a rectangle, then fold into thirds. Repeat this rolling and folding process twice more.
In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and toasted almond slices until well combined.
Roll out the dough into a large rectangle and cut into triangles. Place a spoonful of the cream cheese filling at the wide end and roll tightly. Place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the croissants with the beaten egg and top with additional sliced almonds. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Extra Tips
- To keep your croissants extra flaky, handle the dough as little as possible, and ensure all ingredients are cold before starting. Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips or dried fruits to the filling for a twist!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 5g