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Giant Gingerbread Almond Croissant

Giant Gingerbread Almond Croissant
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The Giant Gingerbread Almond Croissant is a festive, oversized pastry combining the flaky, buttery layers of a classic croissant with warm gingerbread spices and a rich almond filling. Perfect for breakfast, snack, or brunch, it offers a unique and cozy twist ideal for the holiday season or any time you crave a comforting treat.

Ingredients

Croissant Base

  • High-quality puff pastry or homemade croissant dough
  • Butter (for brushing and dough layers)

Almond Gingerbread Filling

  • Almond paste or marzipan (amount adjusted to generously fill dough)
  • Brown sugar (approx. 1/4 cup)
  • Gingerbread spices (ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves – about 1 teaspoon total, adjusted to taste)

Toppings and Garnish

  • Sliced almonds (about 1/4 cup)
  • Butter (melted, for brushing tops)
  • Brown sugar (a pinch for topping)
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Begin by thawing your croissant dough or puff pastry if using store-bought. Roll it out gently on a floured surface to smooth before layering the filling.
  2. Mix the Almond Gingerbread Filling: In a bowl, combine almond paste or marzipan with brown sugar and gingerbread spices until smooth and fragrant. This mixture will infuse the croissant with its signature warmth and nutty flavor.
  3. Assemble the Croissants: Spread a generous layer of the almond gingerbread filling evenly over the rolled dough. Roll the dough tightly into a log shape, then slice into large portions to create giant croissant shapes.
  4. Add Toppings: Brush the tops of each croissant portion with melted butter. Sprinkle sliced almonds and a pinch of brown sugar over them to add crunch and extra flavor once baked.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the croissants on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until puffed, golden, and caramelized on top.
  6. Finish and Serve: Allow croissants to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm to enjoy the melty almond filling and aromatic gingerbread spices at their best.

Notes

  • Use cold butter to maintain crisp, flaky croissant layers.
  • Adjust the amount of gingerbread spices to intensify the aroma if desired.
  • Spread the almond filling generously but evenly to ensure every bite is flavorful.
  • Watch baking time carefully to avoid drying out the pastry; aim for a golden crust with a soft interior.
  • Lightly toast sliced almonds before topping for deeper flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Giant Gingerbread Almond Croissant, almond croissant, gingerbread spices, festive pastry, holiday brunch, flaky croissant, spiced pastry

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/giant-gingerbread-almond-croissant/