Almond Croissant Blondies: A Luxurious Dessert with Layers of Flavor 🍯🥐
Imagine the buttery richness of a croissant, the nutty sweetness of almond filling, and the chewy decadence of a blondie all rolled into one irresistible treat. These Almond Croissant Blondies are a show-stopping dessert that combines textures and flavors to create something truly unforgettable. With a gooey blondie base, a creamy almond frangipane layer, and a crunchy almond topping, this recipe is perfect for anyone who loves indulgent, bakery-style desserts.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something sweet, these blondies are sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to make them!
Why You’ll Love These Almond Croissant Blondies
- Layered Flavors : The combination of almond extract, frangipane, and sliced almonds creates a symphony of nutty, buttery goodness.
- Perfect Texture : The chewy blondie base pairs beautifully with the soft, creamy almond filling and the crunchy almond topping.
- Versatile Treat : Serve them warm with a cup of coffee or tea, or dress them up with powdered sugar and fresh berries for a more elegant presentation.
- Easy to Make : Despite their impressive appearance, these blondies come together with simple steps and pantry-friendly ingredients.
Ingredients (Serves 9–12)
For the Blondie Base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted (226g)
- 1 ½ cups light brown sugar, packed (300g)
- 2 large eggs (120g)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (5ml)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (240g)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (5g)
- ½ teaspoon salt (2.5g)
For the Frangipane (Almond Filling):
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (113g)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
- 1 large egg (60g)
- 1 cup almond flour (96g)
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (2.5ml)
For the Topping:
- ¼ cup sliced almonds (30g)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar for dusting (15g)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease an 8×8-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. Make the Blondie Base
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract, and whisk until fully combined.
- Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Spread the blondie batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
3. Prepare the Frangipane (Almond Filling)
- In a medium mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, followed by the almond flour and almond extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Dollop the frangipane mixture evenly over the blondie base. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it out gently, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add the Topping
- Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over the frangipane layer for added crunch and texture.
- Gently press the almonds into the filling to help them adhere.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes , or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few crumbs are okay).
- Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing.
6. Dust and Serve
- Once cooled, lift the blondies out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
- Slice into squares and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients : Ensure the butter and eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Don’t Overmix : Overmixing the batter can lead to dense blondies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Customize Your Toppings : Swap sliced almonds for chopped pistachios or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead : These blondies can be made a day in advance and stored at room temperature, making them perfect for entertaining.
Serving Suggestions
These Almond Croissant Blondies are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of accompaniments:
- Coffee or Tea : Serve warm with a steaming cup of coffee, latte, or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Fresh Berries : Add a side of fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a pop of color and freshness.
- Ice Cream : Pair with a scoop of vanilla or almond ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
- Dusting Options : Experiment with cocoa powder or cinnamon sugar instead of powdered sugar for a unique twist.
Final Thoughts
These Almond Croissant Blondies are a celebration of texture and flavor, combining the best elements of a buttery blondie, creamy almond filling, and crunchy almond topping. They’re rich, indulgent, and utterly satisfying—perfect for any occasion or even as a special treat for yourself.
With their stunning layers and luxurious taste, these blondies are sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of pure bliss!