Easy Almond Croissants are a delicious treat that combine buttery, flaky pastry with a sweet and nutty almond filling. These croissants have a soft yet crispy texture, and the almond flavor adds a wonderful richness that makes every bite special. They’re a simple way to bring a bakery favorite right into your kitchen without any fuss.
I love making these almond croissants when I want something a little fancy but don’t have a lot of time. I usually use store-bought croissants to keep things quick, then add the almond filling and a sprinkle of sliced almonds on top. It’s such a great shortcut that still tastes impressive. Plus, the smell of toasted almonds and baked pastry fills the whole house and makes it feel cozy and warm.
These croissants are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack with a cup of coffee or tea. I like to serve them slightly warm so the almond filling is soft and gooey, which makes them even more irresistible. Honestly, once you try making these, they’ll probably become one of your favorite weekend treats too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Store-bought croissants: Using ready-made croissants saves tons of time. Day-old croissants work best because they absorb the almond filling without getting too soggy. If you can, choose buttery croissants for the best richness.
Almond flour: This is the heart of the almond filling. If you don’t have almond flour, you can pulse whole almonds in a food processor until finely ground. Just be careful not to grind too much or it will turn into almond butter.
Butter: Softened unsalted butter blends smoothly with sugar and almonds. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan butter alternative, but it might change the flavor slightly.
Eggs: They help bind the almond filling and give it structure. For an egg-free version, you can try flax eggs, but the texture might not be as creamy.
Apricot jam: This glaze adds a lovely shine and subtle sweetness. If you don’t have apricot, use any clear fruit jam or honey to brush on the croissants after baking.
How Do You Get the Perfect, Creamy Almond Filling?
The almond filling is key—it should be smooth, thick, and spreadable. Here’s how to get it right:
- Cream the softened butter and sugar well until light and fluffy. This helps dissolve the sugar and adds air to the filling.
- Add almond flour and all-purpose flour gradually to avoid lumps.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to create a smooth batter.
- Add vanilla and almond extracts last for best flavor balance.
This method gives you a filling that bakes beautifully—soft inside, slightly golden on top, and deeply nutty. Avoid overheating the butter beforehand, or the mixture will become greasy instead of creamy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – a flat tray for baking croissants evenly without crowding them.
- Parchment paper – helps prevent the croissants from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Mixing bowl – to combine your almond filling ingredients smoothly.
- Hand mixer or spoon – a hand mixer speeds up creaming the butter and sugar, but a spoon works too.
- Small saucepan – for warming apricot jam into a glaze (optional but adds a nice shine).
- Pastry brush – perfect for brushing the apricot glaze over the croissants evenly.
- Sharp knife – to slice the croissants horizontally for filling without tearing.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap almond flour for hazelnut or pecan flour to create a different nutty flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or cardamom to the almond filling for a warm, spiced touch.
- Mix in mini chocolate chips or a thin layer of Nutella inside the croissants for extra sweetness.
- Top with crushed pistachios or chopped dried fruit instead of sliced almonds for a colorful twist.
Easy Almond Croissants
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Croissants:
- 6 store-bought croissants (preferably day-old)
For The Almond Filling:
- 3/4 cup almond flour (ground almonds)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
For The Topping:
- Sliced almonds
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- 1/4 cup apricot jam or preserves (for glaze, optional)
- 1 tablespoon water (for apricot glaze, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to bake. If you decide to add the apricot glaze, allow a few extra minutes to warm it. You’ll have tasty almond croissants ready in under 45 minutes total, making this a perfect treat for a cozy morning or snack time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your croissants from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
2. Make The Almond Filling:
In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until smooth and fluffy. Add the almond flour, all-purpose flour, eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract if you’re using it. Mix everything well until it forms a thick, creamy batter.
3. Fill The Croissants:
Slice each croissant horizontally about halfway through to make a pocket. Carefully spoon a generous amount of the almond filling inside the bottom half of each croissant. Then, close the croissants by putting the top halves back on.
4. Add The Topping:
Spread the remaining almond filling on top of each croissant, covering the surface well. Finish by sprinkling sliced almonds on top to add crunch and extra almond goodness.
5. Bake To Perfection:
Place the croissants on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes. They’re done when the topping turns golden brown and the croissants feel hot and fresh inside.
6. Optional Apricot Glaze:
While the croissants are baking, gently warm the apricot jam with water in a small saucepan over low heat until smooth and melted. When the croissants come out of the oven, brush this glaze lightly on top for a shiny, sweet finish.
7. Final Touch:
Let the croissants cool just enough to handle, then dust them with powdered sugar. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Can I Use Frozen Croissants for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen croissants, but make sure to fully thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature before slicing and filling. This helps the almond filling spread easily and ensures even baking.
How Should I Store Leftover Almond Croissants?
Store leftover croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh, warm them gently in the oven at 300°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness and softness.
Can I Make the Almond Filling Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the almond filling a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before using to maintain a smooth texture.
What If I Don’t Have Apricot Jam for the Glaze?
If you don’t have apricot jam, you can substitute with honey or any clear fruit preserves. Simply warm and brush over the croissants after baking for a lovely shine and subtle sweetness.