Chocolate Almond Croissant Dream

Name: Chocolate Almond Croissant Dream
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 croissants
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup cold unsalted butter, plus extra for brushing; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 tablespoon active dry yeast; 1 1/4 cups whole milk, warmed; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup almond paste; 1/4 cup toasted almond slivers; 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting)

Highlighted under: Sweet Treat Creations

I absolutely adore this Chocolate Almond Croissant Dream recipe! It combines the rich flavors of chocolate and almond, enveloped in a buttery, flaky croissant. Every bite is a delightful experience, perfect for a cozy breakfast or an indulgent afternoon treat. I’ve experimented with different fillings, but this classic combination takes the cake. You don’t need to be a trained pastry chef to pull it off; with just a bit of patience and the right ingredients, anyone can create this delectable dessert at home.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-01-23T22:49:28.510Z

I remember the first time I made these Chocolate Almond Croissants. I was nervous but excited, knowing that the flaky layers would envelop a luscious chocolate and almond filling. I decided to use high-quality dark chocolate to take the flavors to another level, and that's a tip I highly recommend. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with toasted almond slivers, creating a trifecta of taste sensations.

The baking process really brings the croissants to life. I learned that giving them enough time to rise is crucial; it allows the layers to fully develop. The aroma that envelops my kitchen as they bake is simply intoxicating. You'll want to enjoy these warm, with a dusting of powdered sugar on top for that extra touch of elegance.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with toasted almond crunch
Delightfully flaky and buttery texture
Perfect for brunch, celebrations, or as a sweet indulgence

Perfecting the Dough

Crafting the dough for your croissants is the foundation of this recipe and essential for achieving that flaky texture. When kneading, aim for a smooth and elastic dough; it should pass the 'windowpane test'—stretch a small piece and it should stretch thin without tearing. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little flour as needed. The resting phase is crucial too; allow the dough to rise until it has doubled in size, which can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the warmth of your kitchen.

Be meticulous when incorporating the cold butter. After preparing the dough, you should have a smooth, elastic texture. When rolling it out, use flour liberally to avoid sticking, but not excessively, as this can affect the dough's moisture balance. The folding technique is critical: fold the dough over the butter, and roll it out gently to avoid squishing the layers. The result should be visible layers that will puff beautifully during baking.

Filling and Shaping Tips

The balance of chocolate and almond flavor is the star of this croissant. For the chocolate, dark chocolate works beautifully not just for flavor but for melting. Choose a high-quality chocolate that you enjoy eating on its own, as this will directly impact the overall taste. Break the chocolate into small pieces and place them in the center of your triangles for even melting. Be careful not to overfill the croissants; a small amount goes a long way toward preventing leaks during baking.

When shaping the croissants, it's crucial to roll from the base of the triangle firmly but gently. If you roll too loosely, they may unfurl during baking; too tight, and they could burst. After you've rolled them, ensure that the pointed tip is tucked underneath. This will help the croissants maintain their shape and ensure even baking. Watching for a golden-brown color is key—this indicates that they are properly cooked and ready to indulge in.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chocolate Almond Croissant Dream

For the Croissants

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cold unsalted butter, plus extra for brushing
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
1 1/4 cups whole milk, warmed
2 large eggs, lightly beaten

For the Filling

1 cup dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup almond paste
1/4 cup toasted almond slivers
1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

How to Make Chocolate Almond Croissant Dream

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Gradually add the warmed milk and eggs. Mix until a dough forms, then knead it for about 10 minutes on a floured surface until smooth. Shape into a ball and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.

Incorporate Butter

Once the dough has risen, roll it out and incorporate the cold butter by folding it into the dough multiple times. Chill the dough for 30 minutes after rolling.

Shape the Croissants

Roll out the dough into a rectangle and cut it into triangles. Place a piece of chocolate and a small amount of almond paste on the base of each triangle and roll them up tightly from the base to the tip. Shape into a crescent.

Final Rise

Place the formed croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with melted butter and allow them to rise for an additional 30 minutes.

Bake the Croissants

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the croissants for 20 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and serving.

Pro Tips

For the best results, use high-quality dark chocolate and allow your croissants to rise properly for the flakiest texture. Baking in a preheated oven ensures even cooking and browning.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Almond Croissants are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them further by pairing them with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a side of fruit preserves. For a special brunch, consider serving with whipped cream or a light vanilla glaze for an added touch of sweetness. You can also sprinkle some sea salt atop the croissants right before serving to enhance the flavor profile.

If you're feeling adventurous, try variations by substituting the almond paste with marzipan or a cream cheese filling for a different twist. You can also experiment by adding a layer of berry preserves or a dash of orange zest into the filling for a fruity surprise. Just remember to adjust your filling amounts to maintain that delightful flaky consistency.

Storage and Freezing Tips

If you intend to make the croissants ahead of time, you can freeze them after shaping and before the final rise. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to a month. When you're ready to bake, simply remove them from the freezer the night before and let them rise in the fridge. They will be fresh and ready to bake when you awaken—perfect for spontaneous weekend breakfasts!

For any leftover croissants, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To revive their flakiness, reheat them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, for extra crispiness, pop them in a toaster oven for a few minutes. This way, you can enjoy your delicious treats even a day or two later without sacrificing texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the fridge overnight.

→ What can I substitute for almond paste?

You can use marzipan for a similar texture and flavor, or finely ground almonds mixed with a bit of sugar.

→ How do I store leftover croissants?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I use store-bought croissant dough?

Yes! Using store-bought dough can save time, and it can still be filled and baked similarly.