Description
These Almond Croissant Muffins combine the flaky, buttery texture of puff pastry with a rich almond filling, creating a delightful pastry muffin perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. Topped with sliced almonds and optionally dusted with powdered sugar, they offer a tender, nutty flavor reminiscent of classic almond croissants in a convenient muffin form.
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
Almond Filling
- 1/2 cup almond paste, crumbled
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 cup almond flour
Topping
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a 12-cup muffin tin to prepare it for baking.
- Prepare Almond Filling: In a medium bowl, mix the crumbled almond paste, granulated sugar, and softened butter until the mixture is smooth. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing thoroughly until combined. Stir in the almond flour to complete the filling.
- Cut Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 12 equal squares to fit into the muffin tin.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Place each puff pastry square into the muffin tin cups, pressing the dough down and up the sides to form a liner. Spoon about a tablespoon of the almond filling into each pastry cup, then fold the corners over the filling slightly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle sliced almonds evenly over each muffin for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed. Allow them to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Optional Finishing Touch: Dust the muffins with powdered sugar before serving for a classic almond croissant appearance and added sweetness.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is properly thawed to make it easier to roll and shape.
- Folding the corners over the filling helps contain the almond cream while baking and gives a croissant-like appearance.
- Using almond flour enhances the almond flavor and adds moisture to the filling.
- These muffins are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat briefly in the oven to restore flakiness if stored.
