There’s something magical about a flaky pastry stuffed with fruity filling. The crisp layers of puff pastry, the sweet burst of cherries, and the golden sugar topping create a dessert that feels both indulgent and approachable. These cherry croissants are a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can transform into something bakery-worthy right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, dessert, or as a midday treat, they’re sure to impress.
Inspired by Starbucks’ apple croissants, I wanted to recreate that buttery, flaky goodness but with a twist. Fresh cherries are the star of this recipe, bringing a tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the pastry. They’re easy to make, require minimal prep, and bake up golden and perfect every time. If you love cherry pastries and need a quick and crowd-pleasing recipe, these croissants are exactly what you’re looking for!
Ingredients for Cherry Croissants
This recipe keeps it simple. You only need a few ingredients for these cherry pastries:
- Cherries: Fresh or frozen work well. Pick ripe, juicy cherries for the best flavor.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the filling and prevents it from being runny.
- Lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the cherry flavor with a touch of warmth.
- Puff pastry: Store-bought makes this easy and stress-free.
- Egg wash: Combine an egg with a little water for that golden, shiny finish.
- Coarse sugar: Adds a delightful crunch on top.
How to Make Cherry Croissants
These cherry pastries come together in no time! Here’s how:
- Prepare the cherry filling:
- In a saucepan, combine cherry filling ingredients.
- Cook over medium heat until thickened, stirring often. Let it cool completely.
- Prepare the puff pastry:
- Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into squares.
- Place a spoonful of cherry filling in the center of each square.
- Shape the croissants:
- Fold the corners of the pastry toward the center. Press gently to seal.
- Add the finishing touches:
- Brush the pastries with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
- Bake to perfection:
- Place the croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake until golden brown.
- Cool and enjoy:
- Let the pastries cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your cherry dessert warm or at room temperature!
FAQ: Cherry Croissants
Can I use cherry pie filling instead of fresh cherries?
Yes, you can! Skip making the filling from scratch. Use about one tablespoon of cherry pie filling per croissant. Reduce the sugar topping slightly to balance the sweetness.
What if I don’t have coarse sugar?
Regular sugar works fine! Alternatively, leave the sugar off for a simpler look.
Can I freeze these croissants?
Absolutely! Freeze unbaked croissants on a tray. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the bake time.
Wrap-Up
These cherry croissants are flaky, fruity, and irresistible. They’re perfect for brunch, dessert, or an afternoon snack. Plus, they’re a fun twist on a Starbucks favorite. Try them for your next cherry dessert craving!
PrintEasy Cherry Croissants
Transform simple ingredients into bakery-worthy cherry croissants that combine sweet cherries and flaky pastry layers for a perfect breakfast or dessert.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Category: pastry, dessert
Ingredients
3 cups pitted cherries - fresh or frozen
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
⅓ cup sugar
⅓ cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 package puff pastry
1 large egg
1 tablespoon water
Coarse sugar
Instructions
- In medium saucepan, combine cherries, cornstarch, lemon juice, sugar, and water over medium heat until mixture starts to bubble. Turn heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring often until cherries have broken down and mixture has thickened.
- Remove from heat and add vanilla extract. Set aside to cool for 15 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400 F.
- Spray 8 of the wells of a standard muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray or line with paper liners.
- Place your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 8 equal squares.
- Press the puff pastry squares into the bottom and sides of the wells in the prepared pan.
- Spoon the cherry filling into each puff pastry, filling them about ¾ full
- Fold the corners of the pastry down to close over most of the top, leaving the very center of the filling exposed.
- Whisk together the egg and water to make an egg wash.
- Brush the tops of the pastry with the egg wash.
- Sprinkle the tops with coarse sugar.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the croissants are golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
