Being in the fashion industry over all these years, I had the privilege to spent time in the greatest cities in the world – and the center of that fashion world is Paris. It is one of the most beautiful and extraordinary cities and of course for anyone who loves food- it’s perfection. I would love to wake up early in the morning and stroll the quiet streets and meander to one of the many exquisite patisseries – filled with all kinds of confections. One of my favorite breakfast treats would be a croissant along with my cafe au lait. So on a cold blustery morning here by the bay when I reminisce about the streets in Paris and the warm patisseries, I decided to create a little bit of Paris by the bay by making a quick and easy almond croissant. All it takes is a package of puff pastry, some frangipane – which is an easy to prepare smooth almond cream that fills the croissant with more richness and texture and few blanched almond slices. You can transform any ordinary morning into a dreamy romantic one. The aroma alone will intoxicate you!
From by the bay wishing you the most romantic food memories!
Maryann
Easy Almond Croissants
Makes 16
Ingredients
1 package 17.3 ounces ready rolled butter puff pastry
1 recipe frangipane ( recipe follows)
1 egg
1 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons blanched sliced almonds
confectioner’s sugar to top
Directions
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. You will have 2 sheets of puff pastry, take the first sheet and roll out. Divide into 4 squares. Cut each square on the diagonal and to make 8 triangle pieces.
Spread on teaspoon of the frangipane on each triangle. Then starting from the widest end of the triangle roll to the point of the triangle. You will have a long croissant , seal the dough and shape into a crescent and place on a Silpat or parchment lined baking sheet. In a small bowl add the egg and water and whisk. Brush each croissant with the egg wash and top with a few almond slices. Repeat with second sheet of puff pastry. Place croissants into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Remove from oven and serve.
Frangipane
Ingredients
1/2 cup ground almond meal
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
3 tablespoons unsalted softened butter
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoons flour
Directions
Combine all ingredients in a food processor until smooth and creamy.
