Almond Croissant from Au Bon Pain features a flaky, buttery pastry filled with rich almond cream and topped with toasted sliced almonds, creating a delightful combination of nutty aroma and crisp, golden layers.
Equipments
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Knife or dough cutter
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, cold
- 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup (60ml) warm milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup (50g) almond flour
- 1/2 cup (100g) powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for almond cream)
- 1 large egg (for almond cream)
- Sliced almonds
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Cold unsalted butter is essential for achieving the flaky, layered texture of the croissant dough, so ensure it remains chilled until incorporated. Use fresh active dry yeast and warm milk to activate the yeast properly, promoting a good rise in the dough. Almond flour and almond extract are key to delivering the rich, nutty flavor characteristic of the almond cream filling. Measure ingredients accurately with the appropriate measuring tools to maintain the delicate balance of sweetness and texture. Your Almond Croissant from Au Bon Pain copycat will boast crisp golden layers topped with toasted sliced almonds, closely replicating the bakery's signature delight.
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk and set aside until foamy.
- Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Cut cold butter into cubes and incorporate into flour mixture until coarse crumbs form.
- Add cold water and yeast mixture to flour, mixing until a dough forms.
- Shape dough into a rectangle, wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll out dough into a large rectangle.
- Fold dough into thirds, rotate, and repeat rolling and folding 3 times, chilling between folds.
- Chill dough for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare almond cream: beat softened butter, almond flour, powdered sugar, all-purpose flour, almond extract, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth.
- Roll out dough, cut into triangles for croissants.
- Spread almond cream on each triangle.
- Roll up each triangle from base to tip, shaping into crescent croissants.
- Place croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover and let croissants rise until puffy.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Whisk one egg and brush over croissants.
- Sprinkle sliced almonds on top.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown.
- Transfer croissants to a cooling rack.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Substitution
The Almond Croissant from Au Bon Pain copycat menu combines flaky layers and rich almond cream topped with crunchy toasted almonds. You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if you need a gluten-free option, but ensure it has xanthan gum for proper dough elasticity. When cold butter is unavailable, you may freeze and grate it quickly to maintain the pastry's flakiness. Consider using almond butter in place of some almond flour to intensify the nutty flavor, but reduce the powdered sugar slightly to balance sweetness. For a dairy-free version, swap unsalted butter and milk with plant-based alternatives and note that baking times may vary.
Tips
Ensure the butter remains cold throughout the dough preparation to achieve the croissant's characteristic flaky layers. You should chill the dough between each fold to prevent the butter from melting and to develop the proper texture. When rolling and folding the dough, be consistent with thickness to promote even baking and a uniform rise. Allow your croissants ample time to rise until puffy before baking to guarantee light, airy pastries.
Nutritions
Almond Croissants from Au Bon Pain provide a rich source of energy due to their high butter and almond content, offering beneficial fats and protein. The almond cream filling contributes vitamin E and magnesium, important for heart health and muscle function. Each croissant contains approximately 350-400 calories, with a balance of carbohydrates from the flour and sugars to fuel your day. Your intake should account for these calories within your overall dietary needs, especially if monitoring fat or sugar consumption.
Storage
Store your Almond Croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their crisp, flaky texture. For longer storage, wrap each croissant individually in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to one month; thaw at room temperature before reheating in a preheated oven at 325degF (160degC) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid refrigeration, as it can cause the pastry to become soggy and lose its buttery flakiness.
Variation or Alternatives
For a richer almond filling, you can substitute part of the almond flour with finely chopped marzipan or add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the almond cream mixture. Instead of folding the dough multiple times, you may try laminating with pre-sliced frozen butter layers for a quicker puff pastry effect. If you prefer a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a blend of almond flour and a gluten-free baking mix, adjusting liquids as needed. You can also brush your croissants with simple syrup after baking for a glossy finish and added moisture.
Allergies
The Almond Croissant from Au Bon Pain contains multiple allergens including almonds, milk, eggs, and wheat. Your almond allergy or sensitivity to gluten in all-purpose flour could trigger adverse reactions, so caution is advised. Always check ingredient lists carefully and inform the bakery staff about your allergy before ordering.
Why this recipe?
The Almond Croissant from Au Bon Pain is celebrated for its flaky, buttery layers filled with rich almond paste and topped with crunchy toasted almonds that create a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Its delicate sweetness and authentic French pastry craftsmanship appeal to those seeking a classic yet indulgent treat. You will appreciate how recreating this recipe at home allows control over ingredient quality while capturing the signature taste of Au Bon Pain's beloved menu item. Exploring a copycat version offers a rewarding baking challenge with a delicious reward that rivals the original bakery experience.