Imagine an almond croissant and a cinnamon roll combined into one irresistible treat. These Almond Croissant Cinnamon Rolls are filled with rich almond cream (frangipane), rolled in slivered almonds, and topped with a simple vanilla glaze for a perfect sweet finish. Great for making the night before and baking fresh in the morning—ideal for brunches or any special occasion when you want something impressive with minimal hassle.
Dough:
1¼ cups 2% milk, warmed to 100°–110°F
2¼ tsp active dry yeast
1 tbsp granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp sea salt
Almond-Frangipane Filling:
9 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
1½ tsp almond extract
1½ cups almond flour
1 large egg
½ cup sliced almonds
Vanilla Glaze:
½ cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk
½ tsp vanilla extract
Bloom Yeast: Combine warmed milk, yeast, and sugar; let sit ~5 minutes.
Form Dough: Add egg, vanilla, and melted butter; whisk. Gradually mix in flour and salt, either with a stand mixer or by hand, until smooth and elastic (about 2–3 minutes).
Rise: Transfer to a lightly oiled bowl; cover and let double in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours.
Prepare Filling: Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add almond extract, almond flour, and egg, mix until combined. Chill briefly to firm up.
Shape Rolls: Roll dough into an 18×12-inch rectangle. Spread filling evenly and roll into a tight log. Slice into 1-inch rolls—should make 9–12 rolls. Place in a buttered 9×13 pan, sprinkle with sliced almonds.
Second Rise or Overnight Prep: If not baking immediately, wrap and refrigerate up to 12 hours. Otherwise, let rise until rolls begin to touch (~30 min).
Bake: Preheat oven to 350 °F and bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden.
Glaze and Serve: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Cool the rolls slightly, then drizzle glaze over top. Serve warm.
Calories: ~457 kcal
Carbohydrates: ~56 g
Protein: ~10 g
Fat: ~22 g
Fiber: ~3 g
Sugar: ~21 g