Description
Indulge in the Giant Gingerbread Almond Croissant, a festive pastry featuring spiced gingerbread flavors and nutty almond cream. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a special breakfast treat.
Ingredients
Scale
- Croissant dough
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp cloves
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp amaretto or rum (optional)
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: If using pre-made croissant dough, allow it to come to room temperature slightly to make it easier to handle. If making from scratch, ensure the laminated layers are properly chilled before shaping.
- Mix the Almond Filling: In a bowl, combine almond flour, softened butter, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and amaretto or rum (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Add Spices: Stir in ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to infuse the mixture with gingerbread warmth.
- Shape the Croissant: Roll out the dough into a large rectangle. Spread a generous layer of the almond gingerbread filling evenly across the surface.
- Fold and Shape: Fold the dough over the filling, sealing the edges. If desired, twist or braid the dough to create an attractive presentation.
- Let It Rise: Place the shaped croissant on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely and allow it to proof until slightly puffed.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the croissant with a beaten egg for a golden finish. Sprinkle with slivered almonds and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Dust and Serve: Once baked, let it cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Slice and enjoy warm!
Notes
- Chocolate Twist: Add a layer of chocolate chips or chocolate spread inside for a richer flavor.
- Nut-Free Alternative: Replace almond flour with oat flour and omit slivered almonds.
- Citrus Infusion: Add orange or lemon zest for a bright, zesty contrast to the warm spices.
- Extra Crunch: Sprinkle crushed gingerbread cookies on top before baking.
- Coffee-Infused: Mix a small amount of espresso powder into the almond filling for a subtle coffee kick.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Pastry, Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired, Holiday Baki
Keywords: gingerbread croissant, almond pastry, holiday dessert, festive breakfast, flaky pastry