Almond Chocolate Croissant Roll

Name: Almond Chocolate Croissant Roll
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon instant yeast; 1 cup buttermilk, warmed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/2 cup almond paste; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon almond extract; 1 egg (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes

I have always been captivated by the flaky layers of a croissant, so when I first tried making an Almond Chocolate Croissant Roll, I knew I had to perfect it. The process allows for layering creamy almond paste with rich chocolate, all wrapped in buttery, flaky pastry. It's a blend of textures and flavors that makes each bite heavenly. The best part is how easy it is to make your own at home, elevating your breakfast or brunch experience to a bakery-level treat.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:49:27.867Z

When I first tried creating Almond Chocolate Croissant Rolls, I was amazed at how simple yet rewarding the process is. I experimented with the almond paste, using both almond extract and crushed almonds, to develop a rich flavor that complements the chocolate perfectly. Each layer of the dough absorbs the filling beautifully, leading to an irresistible treat.

One of the key tips I discovered is to ensure your butter is cold when incorporating it into the dough. This helps achieve that ideal flaky texture. Be patient during the rolling and folding – it’s what creates those signature layers. I can’t wait for you to try making this delicious pastry!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A decadent combination of chocolate and almond flavors
Buttery, flaky texture that will have you wanting more
Homemade goodness you can enjoy at breakfast or brunch

Understanding the Pastry

The key to achieving the perfect flaky texture in your Almond Chocolate Croissant Roll lies in the dough's handling. Start by ensuring your butter is very cold. This temperature contrast is crucial; when the cold butter hits the heat of the oven, it steams and creates those desirable layers. Roll out the dough on a floured surface, making it about a quarter-inch thick to allow for sufficient layering without compromising the pastry's integrity.

During the folding process, aim for even pressure and consistent thickness. If you notice that your dough is becoming too elastic and resistant to rolling, allow it to rest for about 10-15 minutes. This relaxation will make the final roll-out significantly easier and yield better layers.

Perfecting the Filling

When combining the almond paste and chocolate chips, it's important to ensure that the almond paste is softened before mixing. You can do this by mashing it with a fork or warming it slightly in the microwave for just a few seconds. This step will help create a smoother filling that spreads easily across the dough and melds beautifully during baking.

Almond extract adds a wonderful depth to the filling. However, if you don't have almond extract on hand, you can substitute it with vanilla extract, though the flavor profile will shift slightly. If you're looking for a more decadent version, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt into the filling for a contrast in sweetness.

Baking and Storage Tips

Watch closely as the rolls bake. You’ll know they’re ready when they have puffed up and turned a lovely golden brown, which typically takes 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). If you find the tops browning too quickly, you can lightly tent them with aluminum foil during the last few minutes of baking. This will prevent burning while allowing the insides to fully cook.

For leftovers, allow the rolls to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze after cooling, ensuring they're well-wrapped in plastic wrap. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to revive that fresh-baked flaky texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients:

For the pastry

3 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon instant yeast
1 cup buttermilk, warmed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

For the filling

1/2 cup almond paste
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon almond extract
1 egg (for egg wash)

Make sure you have everything ready before you start!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your rolls:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Slowly mix in the warmed buttermilk, stirring until a dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes on a floured surface until smooth.

Incorporate the Butter

Flatten the dough into a rectangle and place the cold, cubed butter in the center. Fold the dough over the butter and roll it out into a rectangle. Fold it in thirds (like a letter) and repeat this rolling and folding process two more times.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix the almond paste, chocolate chips, and almond extract until well combined.

Assemble the Rolls

Roll the pastry out into a large rectangle and spread the filling evenly across. Cut the dough into triangles and roll each triangle starting from the wider end.

Bake

Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with beaten egg for a golden finish and let rise for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy your delightful rolls!

Pro Tips

For extra texture, sprinkle sliced almonds on top just before baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

Serving Suggestions

These Almond Chocolate Croissant Rolls are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience even further. Consider drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a touch of milk over the top for added sweetness and a beautiful presentation. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of sliced almonds will contribute a nice crunch and enhance the almond flavor as well.

Pair them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a seasonal fruit compote to balance the richness of the rolls. The sweetness of fresh berries or a scoop of whipped cream can also enhance the brunch experience, making each bite feel indulgent yet refreshing.

Variations to Try

If you want to experiment with flavors, consider adding different types of chocolate to the filling, like dark chocolate or even white chocolate chips. Each variety will bring out unique touches in flavor, giving you ample opportunity to customize your rolls according to your taste preference. You can also fold in other nuts like hazelnuts for a more complex texture and flavor profile.

For a seasonal twist, try incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling. This variation works wonderfully around the holidays. Just a teaspoon can transform the rolls into a cozy treat that’s perfect for festive gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use puff pastry instead of making dough?

Yes, using pre-made puff pastry can save time and still yield delicious results.

→ What can I substitute for almond paste?

You can blend equal parts of almond butter with powdered sugar as a substitute.

→ How do I store leftover rolls?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for up to a month.

→ Can I add other fillings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other types of chocolate or nut fillings.