Almond Cream Croissant Dreams

Name: Almond Cream Croissant Dreams
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1 ¼ cups milk, warmed; 1/4 cup sugar; 2 teaspoons salt; 2 teaspoons active dry yeast; 2 large eggs; 1 cup almond flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon almond extract

Highlighted under: Artisan Dessert Bakes

I’ve always had a soft spot for croissants, but filled with almond cream, they truly reach another level of deliciousness. Every time I make these croissant dreams, my kitchen transforms into a cozy café. The buttery, flaky layers provide the perfect base for the rich and velvety almond cream, making each bite a luxurious treat. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon snack, these croissants are always a hit. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and enjoy a moment of bliss with every bite!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:22:45.486Z

When I first crafted the almond cream for these croissants, I realized the real magic happens when you let the flavors meld. I roasted the almonds slightly to bring out their natural oils and then blended them with buttery goodness, sugar, and a hint of vanilla. This step elevates the cream to a whole new level, adding depth and richness.

Each time I bite into a warm croissant, I can’t help but smile. The texture is delightfully flaky, and the almond cream inside is creamy and luscious. Make sure to use quality butter for the flakiness, as it truly makes a difference in the final product!

Why You Will Love These Croissants
Decadently creamy almond filling with a hint of vanilla
Perfectly flaky texture that contrasts with the smooth cream
Perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert

Mastering Croissant Dough

Creating the perfect croissant dough is all about the right technique. After mixing your initial ingredients, the key is to knead the dough just enough to develop the gluten without overworking it. The dough should be smooth and elastic, which usually takes about 5 minutes on a floured surface. If it feels too tacky, sprinkle a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much, or your croissants will lose that light, flaky texture.

During the rising phase, it’s essential to maintain a warm environment so the yeast can work its magic. I recommend covering the bowl with a clean kitchen towel to trap warmth. If your kitchen is on the cooler side, consider placing the bowl in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) to help the dough double in size within about an hour.

Perfecting the Almond Cream Filling

The almond cream filling is what elevates these croissants from delightful to extraordinary. Using almond flour provides a rich nutty flavor while contributing to the creaminess. For an even smoother texture, consider sifting the almond flour before mixing it with the butter and sugar. This ensures there are no clumps, leading to a perfectly velvety filling.

When combining your ingredients, make sure the butter is at room temperature to facilitate easy blending. If it's too cold, the mixture may turn out lumpy and won’t pipe easily onto your dough. You can also experiment with flavor by adjusting the vanilla and almond extracts—adding a bit more almond can deepen the flavor profile while maintaining that delightful balance.

Baking and Serving Suggestions

Baking the croissants requires attention to temperature and time for the best results. Preheat your oven thoroughly to 375°F (190°C) before placing the croissants inside. This step is crucial; a properly heated oven ensures a good rise and prevents the croissants from becoming dense. Bake until they are golden brown, which typically takes 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as burnt edges can easily ruin the overall experience.

For serving, allow the croissants to cool slightly on a wire rack to maintain their crispness. They are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes to regain that flaky texture. Consider pairing them with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate for an indulgent twist!

Ingredients

For the Croissants

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1 ¼ cups milk, warmed
1/4 cup sugar
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
2 large eggs

For the Almond Cream Filling

1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract

Instructions

Make the Croissant Dough

In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Add flour, salt, and eggs, mixing to create a dough. Knead for 5 minutes on a floured surface. Shape into a ball, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour.

Prepare the Almond Cream

In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, sugar, softened butter, eggs, vanilla, and almond extracts. Mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Roll the Dough

After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Add the cold butter in the center and fold the dough over, rolling it out again. Repeat this process three times, folding and rolling.

Shape the Croissants

Cut the rolled dough into triangles. Place 1-2 tablespoons of almond cream at the wide end of each triangle and roll them up tightly. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Croissants

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Allow the croissant shapes to rise for 30 minutes. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, brush the croissants with an egg wash before baking to give them a beautiful golden sheen. Serve them warm for the best experience!

Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Just ensure the blend contains xantham gum, which helps mimic the elasticity of traditional dough. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but you’ll still achieve a delicious result with the almond cream filling complementing the gluten-free croissant base.

For a unique flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the almond cream. This addition will give your croissants a warm, spiced profile that’s perfect for cozy mornings. Alternatively, you could introduce chocolate chips or diced fruits like cherries or pears into the almond cream for an unexpected yet delightful twist!

Make-Ahead Options

To save time, you can prepare the croissant dough a day in advance. After kneading, shape it into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out. This method not only saves time but often enhances the flavor of the dough as it ferments longer.

You can also prepare the almond cream filling ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to assemble, simply give it a good stir to return it to a smooth consistency before using. This prep work allows you to enjoy freshly baked croissants with minimal effort on the day you plan to serve them.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the croissants?

Yes, you can freeze both the uncooked and baked croissants. For uncooked, shape them and freeze before the final rise. For baked, cool completely before wrapping and freezing.

→ What can I use instead of almond flour?

You can use hazelnut flour for a different nutty flavor or a gluten-free flour blend. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary.

→ How do I know when the croissants are done baking?

The croissants should be golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

→ Can I use store-bought croissant dough?

Absolutely! Just roll it out, fill it with almond cream, and shape. Bake according to the package instructions for a quicker option.