As I walked through a charming French bakery last week, the enticing aroma of freshly baked croissants wafted through the air, awakening my senses. It made me think of the deliciously fluffy Matcha Almond Croissants I could create right at home. This recipe is not just an upgrade to your leftover store-bought croissants but a quick and delightful way to impress your friends with a treat that captures the essence of a Parisian pastry. Filled with a luscious matcha frangipane, these confections offer a perfect balance of earthy flavors and flaky textures that will awaken the pastry chef in you. Ready to transform those ordinary croissants into extraordinary bites? Let’s dive in!
Why Choose This Matcha Recipe?
Irresistible combination: The rich flavors of matcha paired with creamy frangipane make these croissants a delicious adventure for your taste buds.
Super easy: You’ll love how quickly you can take leftover croissants and transform them into a bakery-style treat—no prior baking experience required!
Versatile options: Customize the filling with different flavors, like chocolate or seasonal fruits, for a unique twist each time.
Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s brunch or an afternoon pick-me-up, these croissants are sure to impress and delight your guests, just like my beloved Banana Matcha Smoothie.
Store-bought convenience: By starting with store-bought croissants, you save time while achieving a gourmet result without the fuss, allowing you to enjoy hassle-free deliciousness!
Matcha Almond Croissant Ingredients
Let’s gather the essentials for the most delightful Matcha Almond Croissants!
For the Frangipane
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness to the simple syrup; coconut sugar is a great lower glycemic substitute.
• Unsalted Butter – Contributes to the richness and flakiness; swap for vegan butter if dairy-free is desired.
• Almond Flour – Gives structure and a lovely nutty flavor; finely ground hazelnuts can be used for a delightful twist.
• Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and smooth texture; consider erythritol for a sugar-free alternative.
• Matcha Powder – Gives the frangipane its vibrant color and unique flavor; go for ceremonial grade for the best results.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; no need for substitutions here.
• Large Eggs – Binds the frangipane; use aquafaba (3 tablespoons for each egg) as a vegan substitute.
For the Croissants
• Croissants – The star of the show; day-old or slightly stale croissants work best to achieve that crispy texture—fresh ones won’t crisp well.
• Sliced Almonds – Adds crunch and texture on top; finely chopped hazelnuts or pecans can be used instead.
• Powdered Sugar (for dusting) – Optional finishing touch for elegance.
Now, let’s get started on creating these delicious Matcha Almond Croissants!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Matcha Almond Croissants
Step 1: Prepare Simple Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine equal parts water and granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar completely dissolves, around 3-5 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and set aside about ⅓ of the syrup for brushing the croissants, while you can store the remaining syrup for later use.
Step 2: Mix Frangipane
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter until creamy and light. Gradually blend in 1 cup of almond flour, 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of matcha powder, and a pinch of salt until smooth, then mix in 2 large eggs one at a time, ensuring everything is well combined.
Step 3: Slice and Fill Croissants
Carefully cut your day-old croissants in half lengthwise to create a pocket for the frangipane. Brush the cut sides generously with the reserved simple syrup to add moisture and sweetness. Pipe a generous layer of the creamy matcha frangipane onto each bottom half, then place the tops back on, finishing with a swirl of remaining frangipane on top for added decadence.
Step 4: Top and Bake
Sprinkle a handful of sliced almonds over the tops of the filled croissants to give them a crunchy texture. Place the prepared croissants on the lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and the edges feel crisp. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-bake.
Step 5: Cool and Dust
Once baked, remove the Matcha Almond Croissants from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial for maintaining their crispy texture. Before serving, dust the tops lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant finish and extra sweetness to complement the matcha flavor.
Expert Tips for Matcha Almond Croissants
Perfect Butter Temperature: Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for easier mixing into the frangipane. Cold butter will lead to clumps.
Quality Matcha Matters: Choose ceremonial grade matcha powder for authentic flavor. Avoid culinary grades, as they can contain fillers affecting taste.
Right Croissant Selection: Use day-old, slightly stale croissants for the best texture. Fresh ones may not crisp up properly during baking.
Be Generous with Syrup: Don’t skimp on brushing the cut sides with simple syrup. It adds moisture and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the Matcha Almond Croissants.
Cool Before Serving: Allow the croissants to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. This helps maintain their crispiness, ensuring a delightful texture.
What to Serve with Matcha Almond Croissants?
Indulging in warm, flaky pastries creates the perfect opportunity to craft a memorable full meal, evoking cozy gatherings and delightful moments.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits add a refreshing contrast to the rich frangipane, balancing the flavors beautifully. Combine watermelon, berries, and a hint of mint for a fragrant touch.
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Overnight Oats: Creamy and hearty, topped with almond slices and honey, these provide a satisfying and wholesome side that complements the elegant croissants.
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Herbal Tea: A cup of soothing herbal tea, like chamomile or lavender, perfectly pairs with the matcha’s earthy notes, enhancing the entire experience.
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Dark Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: The rich flavor of dark chocolate enhances the croissants’ nutty profile, creating an addictive dessert duo for sweet lovers.
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Honeyed Greek Yogurt: Creamy yogurt drizzled with honey and sprinkled with sliced almonds can provide a protein-packed complement to the croissants, making breakfast extra special.
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Lightly Dressed Arugula Salad: The peppery notes of fresh arugula tossed with a lemon vinaigrette create a crisp bite that harmonizes with the sweetness of the croissants.
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Matcha Latte: For a matcha delight, enjoy a creamy matcha latte. It mirrors the croissants’ flavors while providing a wonderfully comforting sip.
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Sparkling Wine: Elevate your brunch with a glass of sparkling wine or prosecco. The bubbles and acidity cut through the richness, making each bite even more delightful.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Matcha Almond Croissants are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the matcha frangipane filling up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture. Additionally, you can slice your croissants and brush them with the simple syrup the day before baking. To keep them fresh, assemble the filled croissants and place them on a baking sheet, loosely covering them with plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to indulge, simply bake them directly from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time, for warm, bakery-quality results with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Matcha Almond Croissants
Room Temperature: Keep your Matcha Almond Croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful texture.
Fridge: If you live in a particularly warm climate, you can store them in the fridge for slightly longer, but they may lose some crispness. Enjoy within 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap croissants tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to freeze. They can last for up to a month.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, ensuring they regain their wonderful crispiness before serving.
Matcha Almond Croissants Variations
Feel free to let your creativity flow and customize your Matcha Almond Croissants with these delightful variations!
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Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter with vegan butter for a delicious, plant-based option that’s equally rich and flaky.
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Nut-Free: Replace almond flour with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free frangipane, allowing everyone to enjoy this treat. This twist brings a new flavor profile while maintaining that creamy consistency.
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Chocolate Delight: Mix cocoa powder into the frangipane for a rich chocolate filling. The chocolate perfectly balances with matcha, creating a dreamy dessert.
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Seasonal Twist: Add chopped seasonal fruits, like raspberries or peaches, in between layers before baking for a fruity surprise that complements the earthy matcha. Think summer vibes with fresh flavors!
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Extra Crunch: For added texture, combine your sliced almonds with toasted coconut flakes and sprinkle generously on top. This will give your croissants a tropical touch, making them even more exciting.
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Zesty Lemon: Incorporate a bit of lemon zest into the frangipane for a zesty brightness. It pairs beautifully with matcha and offers a refreshing contrast that will awaken your palate.
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Jammy Goodness: Slather a layer of your favorite jam—such as apricot or raspberry—inside the croissants for an extra sweet surprise with every bite. A hint of sweetness can elevate this bakery-style treat.
If you’re ever looking to enjoy matcha in another delicious form, consider trying my refreshing Banana Matcha Smoothie for an energizing pick-me-up!
Matcha Almond Croissants Recipe FAQs
What type of matcha should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using ceremonial grade matcha for the best flavor and vibrant color. It has a smoother taste and offers more depth than culinary grades, which can sometimes have fillers and a less appealing bitterness.
How can I ensure my croissants remain crispy when reheating?
Very! To maintain that delightful crispiness, reheat your Matcha Almond Croissants in either a toaster oven or air fryer. This helps recreate that freshly baked texture. Simply place them at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy.
How should I store the croissants?
Ensure you keep your Matcha Almond Croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If stored in the fridge, aim for about 4 days, although this may affect their crunchiness.
Can I freeze Matcha Almond Croissants?
Of course! Wrap each croissant tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminium foil. You can freeze them for up to a month! When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes until heated and crispy.
What can I do if my croissants don’t crisp up during baking?
Oh no, keep calm! If that happens, it might be due to using fresh croissants instead of day-old ones, as fresh ones tend to retain too much moisture. Next time, opt for day-old croissants, or consider baking them a minute or two longer while keeping an eye out to avoid burning.
Are there any allergens in this recipe?
Absolutely! The recipe contains common allergens, including gluten from the croissants and almonds in the frangipane. If you have nut allergies, feel free to use seed butters or omit them altogether, but do check the ingredients of the croissants as well.
Delicious Matcha Almond Croissants: A Bakery-Style Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small saucepan, combine equal parts water and granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar completely dissolves, around 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside about ⅓ of the syrup for brushing the croissants.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually blend in 1 cup of almond flour, 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of matcha powder, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Mix in 2 large eggs one at a time.
- Carefully cut your day-old croissants in half lengthwise. Brush the cut sides with the reserved simple syrup. Pipe a layer of the creamy matcha frangipane onto each bottom half, then place the tops back on, finishing with a swirl of remaining frangipane on top.
- Sprinkle a handful of sliced almonds over the tops of the filled croissants. Place the prepared croissants on the lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the edges are crisp.
- Once baked, remove the croissants and let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Dust the tops lightly with powdered sugar before serving.
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