Almond Croissant Blondies Recipe

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If you love the buttery, flaky charm of a classic almond croissant but want something a bit easier to share and perfect for all-day snacking, Almond Croissant Blondies are your new best friend. These decadent bars combine the richness of buttery blondie batter with the irresistible almond frangipane swirl and crunchy sliced almonds, capturing the essence of that beloved pastry in a chewy, tender square. Whether you’re baking for brunch, gifting to friends, or just indulging your own sweet tooth, these Almond Croissant Blondies deliver layers of flavor and texture that will have everyone asking for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Almond Croissant Blondies starts with a handful of simple ingredients, each one chosen not just for flavor but for the perfect texture and balance. From the nutty almond flour to the sweet brown sugar and fragrant extracts, every component plays a vital role.

• Unsalted butter, melted (1 cup/226 grams): Brings rich moisture and helps create that chewy blondie texture.
• Light brown sugar, packed (1 ½ cups/300 grams): Adds deep sweetness and a hint of caramel.
• Large eggs (3 total): Provide structure and help bind the batter and frangipane layers.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon/5 mL): Infuses warmth and complexity.
• Almond extract (1 ½ teaspoons total): Delivers that signature almond croissant flavor twist.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups/240 grams): Forms the base for the blondie, ensuring the right density.
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon/5 grams): Gives a gentle lift for a tender crumb.
• Salt (½ teaspoon/2.5 grams): Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Unsalted butter, softened (½ cup/113 grams): Key to a light and fluffy almond frangipane topping.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup/100 grams): Sweetens and stabilizes the frangipane.
• Almond flour (1 cup/96 grams): Adds the nutty, moist texture that defines the almond layer.
• Sliced almonds (¼ cup/30 grams): Provide satisfying crunch atop the blondies.
• Powdered sugar (2 tablespoons/15 grams): For that elegant dusting finish.

How to Make Almond Croissant Blondies

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it. This ensures your blondies bake evenly and come out cleanly, keeping those beautiful layers intact.

Step 2: Whisk Butter and Brown Sugar

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and light brown sugar, whisking them together until smooth and glossy. This mixture forms the sweet, buttery base of your blondie batter, setting the stage for a luscious texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts

Next, beat in the eggs along with the vanilla and almond extracts. These ingredients enrich the batter with flavor and help bind everything together, bringing out the unmistakable aroma that hints at almond pastry goodness.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your blondies tender and moist.

Step 5: Make the Almond Frangipane

In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, then mix in the egg, almond flour, and almond extract until smooth. This creamy almond frangipane is what truly elevates these blondies from simple to spectacular, adding a moist, nutty layer to every bite.

Step 6: Assemble the Blondies

Pour the blondie batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Drop dollops of the almond frangipane on top and gently swirl with a knife to create beautiful, marbled layers that will bake into rich almonds pockets.

Step 7: Add Sliced Almonds and Bake

Sprinkle sliced almonds generously across the top for lovely crunch and extra almond goodness. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the edges turn golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached—this ensures the perfect chewy, tender consistency.

Step 8: Cool and Finish

Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan before dusting them with powdered sugar. This final touch adds a delicate sweetness and an elegant finish, ready to be sliced into buttery, almond-studded squares.

How to Serve Almond Croissant Blondies

Garnishes

Dusting with powdered sugar is classic and beautiful, but consider adding a light drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of toasted almond flakes for extra crunch and shine. Fresh berries on the side can add a bright contrast, balancing the richness with a hint of freshness.

Side Dishes

These blondies are amazing on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla or almond-flavored ice cream for a sophisticated dessert. For brunch, serve with a cup of bold coffee or a smooth latte to echo those warm, comforting flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking several blondies on a decorative platter dusted with powdered sugar and scatter some edible flowers or fresh mint leaves for a stunning centerpiece. You can also cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing at parties or include a small dollop of whipped cream on each piece to mimic the creaminess of a croissant filling.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your Almond Croissant Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them moist and chewy while maintaining the crunch of the almond topping.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months, allowing you to enjoy that almond croissant flavor whenever you crave it.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy, thaw the blondies at room temperature and warm them slightly in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This revives the buttery softness and makes the flavors shine as if freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use almond meal instead of almond flour in Almond Croissant Blondies?

Yes, almond meal can be used as a substitute; however, it may create a slightly coarser texture since almond flour is typically finer. Your blondies will still be deliciously almond-flavored and moist.

What is the role of almond extract in this recipe?

Almond extract adds an intense and aromatic almond flavor that mimics the taste of traditional almond croissants. It enhances both the batter and the almond frangipane layers, making these blondies uniquely flavorful.

Can I make these blondies gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, but be sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder for best results. The almond flour in the frangipane naturally adds extra moisture and richness for a great texture.

How do I know when Almond Croissant Blondies are perfectly baked?

The edges should be golden and set while the center remains slightly soft. A toothpick inserted in the center will come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. This balance creates that ideal chewy texture you’re aiming for.

Can I add chocolate chips or other nuts?

Absolutely! Adding dark or white chocolate chips complements the almond flavor wonderfully, and chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts add more crunch and depth. Feel free to experiment and make the recipe your own.

Final Thoughts

Almond Croissant Blondies are such a delightful treat that bring the best of pastry and bar cookie worlds together in a way that feels special yet completely accessible. With their tender crumb, lovely almond aroma, and irresistible swirls of frangipane, these blondies are sure to become a household favorite. I can’t wait for you to bake a batch and savor every buttery, nutty bite—you’ll find it hard to stop at just one!

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