Are you ready to indulge in a world of buttery, flaky, and oh-so-delicious French pastries? Look no further! From classic croissants to decadent éclairs, we’ve gathered 20 mouthwatering recipes that will transport your taste buds to the City of Love. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings or a show-stopping dessert to impress your friends and family, these French pastries are sure to delight.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of French patisserie, showcasing iconic recipes that have been perfected over centuries. From the delicate layers of mille-feuille to the rich flavors of tarte tatin, each recipe is carefully crafted to provide an unforgettable culinary experience. So, let’s get started and discover the magic of French pastries!
Classic French Croissants
Classic French Croissants Recipe
Experience the flaky, buttery delight of authentic French croissants with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add flour, salt, and softened butter to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Cut into triangles and roll each triangle into a croissant shape, curving the ends towards the center.
6. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each croissant.
7. Brush with beaten egg for glaze.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pain au Chocolat
Pain au Chocolat is a delicious French pastry that combines the flaky layers of a croissant with the richness of dark chocolate. This recipe yields tender, buttery pastries filled with melted chocolate, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm milk
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 12 ounces dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. Cut into triangles and roll each triangle into a croissant shape, placing a piece of chocolate in the center.
7. Place pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tarte Tatin
Tarte Tatin: A Twist on the Classic French Dessert
This iconic French dessert is a showstopper, with caramelized apples and buttery pastry. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this stunning tarte at home.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 Granny Smith apples, peeled and halved
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sugar and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. Arrange apple halves in the skillet, cut side up. Cook for 5 minutes or until they start to caramelize.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place over apples, tucking edges under.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Éclairs with Vanilla Cream
Elevate your pastry game with these elegant French éclairs filled with a rich and creamy vanilla bean-infused custard. This recipe yields 12-15 éclairs, perfect for special occasions or as a decadent treat.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1 large egg, room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
For the vanilla cream:
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the dough according to package instructions.
3. Pipe onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in long, thin strips.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow éclairs to cool completely.
6. Whip heavy cream, sugar, and salt until stiff peaks form.
7. Add vanilla extract and whip until combined.
8. Fill cooled éclairs with vanilla cream.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Macarons with Raspberry Filling
Elevate your pastry game with these delicate French macarons and a sweet raspberry filling, perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be on your way to creating these exquisite treats.
Ingredients:
For the shells:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Food coloring (optional)
For the filling:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries, pureed
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar and continue beating until smooth.
4. Add food coloring, if desired. Fold in the almond flour mixture until well combined.
5. Pipe small circles onto prepared baking sheet. Tap gently to remove air bubbles.
6. Allow macarons to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking for 15-20 minutes or until firm.
7. For the filling, combine pureed raspberries, granulated sugar, and cornstarch in a bowl. Mix until smooth.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes per batch
Crème Brûlée
Crème brûlée, a classic French dessert, is a rich and creamy custard base topped with a caramelized sugar crust. This simple recipe yields a deliciously smooth and flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, heavy cream, sugar, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over the top of each ramekin.
9. Caramelize the sugar with a kitchen torch or under the broiler.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Madeleines with Lemon Glaze
These delicate French cakes are infused with the brightness of lemon zest and topped with a tangy glaze, perfect for a springtime treat or afternoon delight. This recipe is a simple yet elegant twist on the classic madeleine.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tbsp lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Lemon glaze (see below)
Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a madeleine pan and dust with flour.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and melted butter until smooth.
3. Add vanilla extract, lemon zest, and mix well.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
5. Allow cakes to cool in pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
6. While warm, dust with confectioners’ sugar. Drizzle with Lemon Glaze (mix powdered sugar and lemon juice) once cooled.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Canelés de Bordeaux
These buttery, rum-infused treats are a staple of French patisserie. With their crispy exterior and soft interior, Canelés de Bordeaux are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon rum extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter six 7-ounce (200g) cannelé molds and coat with granulated sugar.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, and rum extract.
4. Gradually pour dry ingredients into wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared molds, filling 3/4 of the way.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fraisier Cake
This classic French dessert is a masterclass in simplicity and elegance, featuring layers of genoise cake, pastry cream, and fresh raspberries. With just a few ingredients and some basic preparation, you can create a show-stopping Fraisier Cake that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– Pastry cream (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh raspberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until smooth. Add milk and whisk until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cake is golden brown.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before assembling with pastry cream and fresh raspberries.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Palmiers with Cinnamon Sugar
A classic French pastry, palmiers are a sweet and buttery treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe adds an extra layer of warmth with a cinnamon sugar coating.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Dot the top of the pastry with softened butter.
6. Roll the pastry into a tight log shape, starting from one of the long edges.
7. Cut the log into 1/2-inch thick slices and place on prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Opéra Cake
The Opéra Cake, also known as Gâteau Opéra, is a French masterpiece consisting of layers of chocolate cake, coffee syrup, and buttercream. This recipe provides a simplified version to create this iconic dessert.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3/4 cup (85g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
For the coffee syrup:
– 1 cup (240ml) strong brewed coffee
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
For the buttercream:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) confectioners’ sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. Prepare the cake layers according to package instructions or a recipe of your choice.
3. Soak the cooled cake layers in coffee syrup for at least 30 minutes.
4. Assemble the cake by spreading buttercream between the layers, finishing with a layer on top.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes (including soaking time)
Paris-Brest
Paris-Brest is a legendary French dessert that combines the simplicity of a cake with the elegance of a creamy filling, all wrapped up in a delicate pastry shell. This recipe brings you an authentic and easy-to-make version of this iconic treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup praline cream (see note)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) ring mold.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and whisk until just combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in milk.
5. Pour batter into the prepared mold and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool completely before filling with praline cream.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Profiteroles with Chocolate Sauce
These classic French cream puffs, also known as profiteroles, are a decadent treat that pairs perfectly with a rich and velvety chocolate sauce. This recipe yields a batch of golden-brown choux pastry balls filled with whipped cream and drizzled with warm chocolate goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream, whipped
– Chocolate sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, salt, and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the mixture reaches a boil.
3. Remove from heat and add flour, butter, and egg yolks. Stir until smooth.
4. Pipe small balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow to cool before filling with whipped cream.
7. Drizzle with warm chocolate sauce and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Financiers with Almond Flour
These classic French financiers are a delight to make and enjoy. Using almond flour gives them a subtle nutty flavor and a delicate texture that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gâteau Saint-Honoré
This elegant dessert consists of a flaky pastry shell filled with a creamy custard and topped with caramelized sugar. Gâteau Saint-Honoré is a timeless treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry and cut into a circle, about 10 inches in diameter.
2. In a bowl, whisk together cream, sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Pour the custard mixture onto the pastry circle, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and drizzle with caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mille-Feuille with Pastry Cream
Mille-Feuille, also known as Napoleon, is a classic French pastry consisting of layers of puff pastry and creamy custard. This recipe yields a deliciously flaky and flavorful dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into long rectangles, about 4 inches wide and 12 inches long.
3. Place the pastry on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, egg yolks, heavy cream, and salt. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
5. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter. Allow to cool slightly.
6. Assemble the Mille-Feuille by spreading a layer of pastry cream on each cooled puff pastry rectangle, then top with another layer of pastry.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Chouquettes with Pearl Sugar
Chouquettes are a classic French pastry that combines the simplicity of puff pastry with the sweetness of pearl sugar. This recipe yields a batch of crispy, caramelized treats perfect for snacking or as a sweet addition to your favorite desserts.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup pearl sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or diamonds).
3. Place pastry shapes on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
4. Sprinkle pearl sugar evenly over the pastry, making sure to cover the entire surface.
5. Dot the top of each piece with melted butter.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and caramelized.
7. Allow chouquettes to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Galette des Rois
Celebrate Epiphany with this classic French dessert, traditionally served on January 6th to mark the Three Kings’ arrival. This buttery, flaky pastry is filled with sweet frangipane and topped with a glaze made from honey and powdered sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup frangipane filling (almond paste)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Honey and powdered sugar for glaze
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. Spread frangipane filling over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
3. Fold the borders up over the filling, pressing gently to seal. Brush with beaten egg and make a small incision in the top crust.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool before glazing with honey and powdered sugar mixture.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Brioche à Tête
Brioche à tête is a classic French braided bread that requires some patience and skill, but the end result is well worth the effort. This sweet bread is perfect for special occasions or as a treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Stir to dissolve, then let sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Add the yeast mixture, beaten egg, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Divide the dough into three equal pieces. Braid the pieces together, tucking the ends under the loaf.
6. Place the braided loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tarte au Citron
This French classic combines a buttery pastry crust with a tangy and sweet lemon curd, perfect for a dessert or brunch. The simplicity of the recipe belies its rich flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. Transfer the pastry to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Trim edges and press into corners.
3. In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, sugar, egg yolks, and melted butter. Pour mixture into the pastry-lined tart pan.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust golden brown.
5. Allow the tarte to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the world of French pastries with these 20 delectable recipes! From classic croissants and pain au chocolat to show-stopping opéra cakes and financiers, there’s something for every occasion. Try your hand at making flaky tarte tatin or creamy éclairs, or go sweet with macarons, madeleines, and palmiers. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, these recipes will guide you through the process of creating French patisserie perfection. So go ahead, get baking, and bon appétit!
