Almond Croissant Muffins

If you love the rich, nutty flavor of almond croissants but want an easier, more accessible way to enjoy them, then Almond Croissant Muffins are the perfect solution! These muffins combine the crispy, flaky layers of a croissant with the sweet, nutty almond filling in a convenient muffin form. Inspired by the famous French almond croissant, this recipe takes all the best parts—buttery pastry, almond frangipane, and crunchy sliced almonds—and transforms them into a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent afternoon snack.

Unlike traditional almond croissants, which require laminated dough and multiple proofing steps, these Almond Croissant Muffins use store-bought puff pastry to save time while still delivering a crispy, golden-brown texture. Each muffin is filled with homemade almond cream (frangipane) and topped with sliced almonds, creating a bakery-quality pastry that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking for a unique dessert, or simply craving something sweet and buttery, these Almond Croissant Muffins will satisfy your cravings. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easier than traditional croissants – No need to make laminated dough from scratch!
• Crispy, flaky, and buttery texture – Thanks to store-bought puff pastry.
• Rich almond flavor – A homemade frangipane filling makes these muffins extra special.
• Perfect for breakfast or dessert – Pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.
• Great for entertaining – Impress your guests with this elegant, bakery-style pastry.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 muffins
• Serving Size: 1 muffin

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 12g

Ingredients

For the Muffins:

• 1 sheet of store-bought puff pastry, thawed
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Almond Frangipane Filling:

• ½ cup almond flour
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract
• 1 tablespoon milk (or heavy cream)

For Topping:

• ¼ cup sliced almonds
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Almond Frangipane Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, softened butter, and granulated sugar.
2. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth and creamy.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of milk and mix well. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a muffin tin or line it with parchment paper.
3. Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
4. Cut the pastry into 12 equal squares (each should be about 3×3 inches).

Step 3: Assemble the Muffins

1. Place a square of puff pastry into each muffin cup, gently pressing it down to form a cup shape.
2. Brush the inside of each pastry with melted butter and sprinkle with a little sugar.
3. Spoon 1 tablespoon of the almond frangipane filling into each muffin cup.
4. Sprinkle sliced almonds on top.

Step 4: Bake the Muffins

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
2. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

1. Once the muffins are completely cool, dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
2. Serve warm and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

Why Almond Flour?

Almond flour adds a nutty richness and a delicate, moist texture to the frangipane filling. It’s also a gluten-free ingredient, making the filling naturally wheat-free.

What is Frangipane?

Frangipane is a classic French almond cream used in pastries like almond croissants and tarts. It has a creamy, custard-like texture and is packed with almond flavor, making it the perfect filling for these muffins.

Why Use Puff Pastry?

Puff pastry creates a light, flaky texture without the need for complex croissant dough. It’s buttery, crisp, and bakes beautifully, giving these muffins the signature croissant-like feel.

Technique Tips

• Use cold puff pastry – If the dough gets too warm, it becomes difficult to handle.
• Don’t overfill – Too much frangipane can cause the filling to overflow while baking.
• Bake until golden brown – Undercooked puff pastry can be doughy, so bake until crisp.
• Let them cool slightly – The filling sets up as it cools, making it easier to enjoy.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Mini Almond Croissant Bites: Cut the pastry into smaller pieces and bake in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized treats.
• Braided Almond Muffins: Instead of squares, twist strips of puff pastry around the filling for a decorative look.
• Chocolate Almond Muffins: Add a few chocolate chips to the frangipane for a chocolatey twist.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use high-quality almond extract – It enhances the almond flavor beautifully.
• Don’t skip the powdered sugar dusting – It gives the muffins a bakery-style finish.
• Store leftovers properly – Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan Almond Croissant Muffins: Use vegan butter and an egg replacer in the frangipane.
• Sugar-Free Version: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or erythritol.
• Cinnamon-Almond Muffins: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon to the frangipane for a warm, spiced flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• To Freeze: Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.
• To Store: Keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2 days.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Brunch Buffet: Serve with fresh fruit and mimosas for an elegant spread.
• Afternoon Tea: Pair with a warm cup of Earl Grey or espresso.
• Holiday Dessert Table: These muffins are a great addition to Christmas or Easter celebrations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought almond paste instead of making frangipane?

Yes! Store-bought almond paste is a great shortcut if you don’t want to make frangipane from scratch. However, almond paste is much denser and sweeter than frangipane, so to achieve a smoother, more spreadable texture, mix it with a little butter and egg. This will help mimic the creaminess of traditional frangipane while still keeping that rich almond flavor. If the paste is too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! There are a couple of ways to prepare these muffins in advance:

• Make and store the unbaked muffins: Assemble the muffins in the tin, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake them fresh for a warm, flaky treat.
• Bake them ahead and reheat later: If you bake them the day before, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. When ready to serve, pop them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to crisp them up.

3. Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the regular puff pastry for a gluten-free puff pastry. Many grocery stores now offer gluten-free versions, but if you can’t find any, you can also use gluten-free phyllo dough as a substitute. Keep in mind that gluten-free puff pastry may be slightly more delicate, so handle it gently when shaping the muffins.

4. What if I don’t have almond flour?

If you don’t have almond flour, you can make your own by blending blanched almonds in a food processor until finely ground. Be careful not to over-process, or you’ll end up with almond butter! Sifting the ground almonds can help remove any larger pieces for a smoother texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can also try using finely ground hazelnuts or cashews for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.

5. Can I add fruit?

Yes! Adding fruit can give these muffins a fresh, juicy twist. Some delicious options include:

• Sliced peaches – Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the almond flavor.
• Raspberries – Adds a tart contrast to the rich frangipane.
• Blueberries – Bursting with sweetness and color.
• Cherries – A classic pairing with almonds for a Black Forest-inspired twist.

To prevent excess moisture, lightly toss the fruit in a little cornstarch before adding it to the muffins. This will help keep the filling from becoming too runny.

6. Can I freeze these muffins?

Yes! These muffins freeze really well, making them a great make-ahead treat. Here’s how to freeze them properly:

• Freezing unbaked muffins: Assemble the muffins in the muffin tin and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, pop them into the oven straight from the freezer, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing baked muffins: Let them cool completely, then wrap each one in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes before serving.

7. What can I use instead of puff pastry?

If you don’t have puff pastry, you can use:

• Phyllo Dough: Layer 4-5 sheets together, brushing butter between each layer.
• Crescent Roll Dough: A softer alternative that creates a fluffier muffin.
• Homemade Croissant Dough: If you’re up for the challenge, making your own laminated dough will give the most authentic texture.

8. Can I use a different nut instead of almonds?

Definitely! If you have nut allergies or just want to experiment, try:

• Hazelnuts – Makes a Nutella-like filling when mixed with cocoa.
• Pecans – Adds a rich, buttery flavor.
• Pistachios – Gives a vibrant green color and a unique taste.

For a nut-free version, you can make a filling using sunflower seed butter or coconut cream.

9. What is the best way to store leftovers?

To keep these muffins fresh:

• At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• In the fridge: Keeps well for up to 5 days (best warmed up before serving).
• In the freezer: Can be stored for up to 2 months.

10. Can I make these muffins dairy-free?

Yes! Simply replace:

• Butter with vegan butter or coconut oil
• Milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk
• Puff pastry with a dairy-free brand (many store-bought puff pastries are already dairy-free!)

11. What’s the difference between almond croissant muffins and regular croissants?

Traditional almond croissants are made by slicing day-old croissants, filling them with almond cream, and baking them again. These muffins, on the other hand, use puff pastry shaped into muffin tins, creating individual portions with a crispier texture. They offer all the flavors of a classic almond croissant but in a portable, muffin-shaped form.

12. How do I get the perfect flaky texture?

For the flakiest, crispiest muffins, follow these tips:

• Use cold puff pastry – Warm dough won’t puff up as much.
• Don’t overfill the muffin cups – Too much filling can make them soggy.
• Bake at a high temperature – 375°F (190°C) ensures a crispy, golden crust.
• Let them cool slightly – The filling sets up as it cools, making them easier to eat.

13. Can I add chocolate to these muffins?

Yes! Chocolate and almonds are a fantastic combination. Add a few chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the muffins after baking for an extra indulgent touch.

14. Are these muffins similar to cruffins?

Yes! Cruffins (croissant muffins) are made by rolling croissant dough into a muffin tin, just like these Almond Croissant Muffins. The main difference is that cruffins are often made with homemade croissant dough, while this recipe uses store-bought puff pastry for a quicker alternative.

15. Can I serve these for special occasions?

Absolutely! These muffins are perfect for brunch, holidays, or afternoon tea. Serve them at:

• Christmas morning – A festive, bakery-style treat.
• Mother’s Day brunch – Elegant and impressive, yet easy to make.
• Afternoon tea parties – Pair with coffee or Earl Grey tea.

Conclusion

These Almond Croissant Muffins are the perfect way to enjoy the flaky, buttery goodness of a croissant with the rich almond filling of a frangipane tart—all in a convenient muffin form! With crispy layers, a creamy almond center, and a dusting of powdered sugar, they make for an irresistible treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a luxurious afternoon snack.

By using store-bought puff pastry, you can skip the complicated croissant-making process and still achieve a golden, bakery-quality pastry with minimal effort. Whether you enjoy them warm from the oven or save them for later, these muffins will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Try this recipe today and bring a touch of Parisian pastry perfection into your home—no bakery trip required!

Print