Almond Croissant Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you adore the flaky, buttery luxury of a croissant and crave the comforting hug of cinnamon rolls, then Almond Croissant Cinnamon Rolls are here to sweep you off your feet. This incredible treat marries the delicate almond flavor and tender crumb of a croissant-inspired dough with the classic cinnamon roll’s gooey, sweet filling, all topped with a luscious vanilla glaze and toasted almonds for that unbeatable crunch. Every bite is a celebration of textures and flavors that feels like a warm, cozy morning in pastry form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might look straightforward, but trust me, each one plays a starring role in creating those perfectly soft, nutty-sweet Almond Croissant Cinnamon Rolls. From the yeast that gives the dough its airy lift to the almond flour enriching the filling with a toasty depth, every component works in harmony to deliver a bakery-worthy treat right from your kitchen.

• 1.25 cups 2% milk, warmed to 100℉-110℉: Activates the yeast gently and adds moisture for that soft dough texture.
• 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast: Essential for the dough’s rise and fluffy crumb.
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.
• 1 large egg: Helps bind ingredients and enriches the dough’s flavor and color.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle fragrant note that complements the almond perfectly.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Gives tenderness and richness to the dough.
• 4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for structure and that soft chew.
• 2 teaspoons sea salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 9 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: The base of the filling that makes it creamy and dreamy.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the almond filling just right.
• 1.5 teaspoons almond extract: Packs a fragrant almond punch that makes these rolls unforgettable.
• 1.5 cup almond flour: Adds texture and authentic almond flavor inside the filling.
• 1 large egg: Helps bind the almond filling together.
• ½ cup sliced almonds: Sprinkled on top for crunch and nutty aroma.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: The base for the sweet vanilla glaze.
• 2 tablespoons milk: Thins the glaze for perfect drizzling.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla: Lifts the glaze with a lovely aroma.

How to Make Almond Croissant Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Bloom the Yeast

Warm milk is your yeast’s best friend here—it wakes those yeast cells up, prepping them to do their magical rising work. Mix the warm milk, active dry yeast, and sugar in a large bowl and watch the yeast foam up in around 5 minutes, proofing that it’s alive and ready.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Once you see those bubbly bubbles, add the egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter into the bowl. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth, setting the stage for a silky dough.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Slowly add flour and salt to your wet mixture while mixing with a dough hook. At first, it looks like a shaggy mess, but keep kneading for a few minutes and that dough will transform into an elastic, smooth marvel that springs back when you poke it—that bounce means you nailed it.

Step 4: Let it Rise

Transfer your dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap and a towel, then set it somewhere warm to double in size. This gentle rise takes about 1 to 1.5 hours and it’s vital for those soft layers that give Almond Croissant Cinnamon Rolls their signature pillowy texture.

Step 5: Prepare the Almond Filling

While your dough is doing its thing, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Then mix in the almond extract, almond flour, and egg to create a rich, nutty filling. Chill it for 15 minutes to help it firm up, making it easier to spread later.

Step 6: Shape Your Rolls

Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large 18 by 12-inch rectangle, super thin at about ¼ inch thick. Spread the almond filling evenly across, then roll the dough tightly into a log starting from one of the long edges—this rolling technique builds those lovely swirls you’ll see inside the finished rolls.

Step 7: Slice and Arrange

Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 1-inch thick slices, which will yield between 9 and 12 rolls depending on your slicing precision. Place these slices snugly in a buttered or parchment-lined 9×13 inch pan. Don’t forget to sprinkle the sliced almonds on top for extra crunch and gorgeous toasted accents.

Step 8: Second Proof and Bake

If you’re making these ahead, refrigerate the rolls covered with plastic wrap for up to 12 hours. When ready to bake, let them warm at room temp for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, let the rolls rise in a warm place until they begin to touch—this takes about 30 minutes. While they rise, preheat your oven to 350℉. Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and center-set, the smell at this stage is simply irresistible.

Step 9: Make the Vanilla Glaze and Finish

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth and glossy. When your rolls have cooled for about 10 minutes, drizzle this vanilla glaze all over those nutty, soft swirls. The glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness and a beautiful shine.

How to Serve Almond Croissant Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

To really elevate your Almond Croissant Cinnamon Rolls, sprinkle a few more sliced almonds right before serving for a fresh crunch. A little dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of extra vanilla glaze adds a lovely finishing touch that makes the presentation pop.

Side Dishes

These rolls shine brightest on their own, but pairing them with a simple, creamy coffee latte or a fresh fruit salad balances the richness wonderfully. For a brunch spread, a side of mixed berries or yogurt topped with honey complements the almond notes perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your rolls warm in a rustic wooden tray lined with parchment paper for that cozy café vibe. Wrapping them individually in wax paper tied with twine makes a charming gift for friends or neighbors. You could also create mini versions for brunch bite platters, perfect for sharing and sampling.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Almond Croissant Cinnamon Rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and delicious, although the texture might mellow slightly. For best enjoyment, bring them back to life with gentle reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze the rolls either before baking or after glazing. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or finishing the bake. This is perfect for planning ahead for holidays or special breakfasts.

Reheating

To revive frozen or leftover rolls, warm them in the oven at 325℉ for about 10-15 minutes, covered loosely with foil to prevent drying. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave (about 20 seconds) works in a pinch but can slightly affect texture. Warm rolls taste fresh and bring back that irresistible almond aroma.

FAQs

Can I use almond butter instead of almond flour in the filling?

Almond butter will change the texture and moisture level of the filling quite a bit. Almond flour provides that slightly grainy, nutty texture essential to these rolls, so it’s best to stick with that for the authentic flavor and structure.

Is it necessary to use almond extract, or can I substitute it?

Almond extract really amplifies the almond flavor standing out in these rolls. If you can’t find it, vanilla extract is a mild substitute, but the rolls won’t have that unmistakable almond aroma that sets this recipe apart.

Can I make these rolls without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! You can mix and knead the dough by hand. It just takes a bit more arm power and about 8-10 minutes of kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The best sign is when the dough doubles in size. You can also gently press it with your finger—inflated dough will slowly bounce back but leave a slight indentation, showing the yeast has done its job.

Can I add cinnamon to the almond filling for a more traditional cinnamon roll twist?

Yes! A teaspoon or two of ground cinnamon mixed into the almond filling adds a warm spice note that pairs beautifully with the almond flavor, enhancing the classic cinnamon roll feel while keeping the almond croissant essence.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to delight your senses with the ultimate hybrid pastry, these Almond Croissant Cinnamon Rolls are a must-try—every step is worth it for that tender, nutty, and sweet bite topped with a dreamy glaze. Sharing these with loved ones or savoring them slowly with a cozy cup of coffee is pure joy. Don’t wait—bake a batch and let your kitchen smell like a warm French bakery today!

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