Description
Flaky, buttery, and filled with caramelized pecans, these homemade croissants are an irresistible treat. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon indulgence with coffee. One bite, and you’ll be transported straight to a Parisian bakery.
Ingredients:
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
½ cup chopped pecans
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 large egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon water
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. (
5 minutes)
Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into 6 triangles. (
5 minutes)
In a small bowl, combine pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Mix well until pecans are coated. (
3 minutes)
Place a spoonful of pecan mixture at the wide end of each pastry triangle. Roll up tightly into a croissant shape. (
6 minutes)
Whisk egg with water and brush over the tops of croissants for a golden finish. (
2 minutes)
Arrange croissants on the baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, until puffed and golden brown. (
20 minutes)
Let cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired. (
5 minutes)
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 6 croissants
#HomemadeCroissants #PecanPastry #SweetTreats #BakeryStyle
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect pecan croissants every time. First, ensure your puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold, which makes it easier to handle. On a lightly floured surface, gently roll the pastry sheet to smooth out any fold lines. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the sheet into six even triangles. For the filling, toast the chopped pecans in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes before mixing to enhance their flavor. When assembling, place the pecan mixture on the wide end, leaving a small border. Roll from the wide end to the point, tucking the point underneath to seal. Ensure the egg wash is applied evenly for a consistent, glossy golden brown finish.
Serving Suggestions
These croissants are versatile. Serve them warm from the oven as a decadent weekend breakfast alongside fresh fruit and strong coffee. For a brunch spread, pair them with savory quiche or scrambled eggs. They make an elegant afternoon snack with a cup of tea or a dollop of whipped cream. For a special dessert, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or serve à la mode with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How-to Summary
In short: Thaw pastry, roll and cut into triangles. Mix toasted pecans with brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon. Place filling on the wide end of each triangle and roll up tightly. Brush with egg wash and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes until golden. Cool slightly before a final dusting of powdered sugar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these croissants ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble them, place on the baking sheet, and refrigerate overnight. Bake directly from the fridge, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
Can I use a different nut? Absolutely. Walnuts or almonds are excellent substitutes. Chop them to a similar size for even distribution.
My pastry became soggy. What happened? This is often due to the filling being too wet. Ensure your melted butter has cooled slightly before mixing, and don’t overfill the triangles.
How do I store leftovers? Store cooled croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes to restore crispness.
Can I freeze unbaked croissants? Yes. After assembling and before applying egg wash, freeze them solid on the baking sheet. Then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3-5 minutes to the bake time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: Using warm or overworked puff pastry, which prevents proper rising. Overfilling the triangles, causing the filling to leak during baking. Not sealing the tip of the croissant, which can cause it to unroll in the oven. Skipping the egg wash, which gives the signature golden color and sheen. Placing croissants too close together on the baking sheet, as they need space to expand.
Conclusion
Creating these pecan-filled croissants at home is a rewarding process that delivers bakery-quality results. With flaky layers, a buttery crunch, and the sweet aroma of cinnamon, they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. By following this enhanced guide and avoiding common errors, you can master this impressive pastry. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome of your homemade baking adventure.