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Prepare to indulge in a delightful treat that combines the flakiness of croissants with the ease of muffins. Our Cinnamon, Fruit, and Almond Cruffins are a heavenly creation that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. These buttery pastries are filled with a luscious cinnamon-infused fruit filling and topped with a crunchy almond streusel. Whether you enjoy them as a breakfast treat, a snack with coffee, or a sweet dessert, these cruffins are sure to impress. Join us as we guide you through the steps of making these delectable delights.
Cinnamon, Fruit, and Almond Cruffins, a delightful fusion of croissants and muffins, is a baked treat that traces its origins to the French pastry tradition and the modern trend of hybrid desserts. Here’s a peek into the story and inspiration behind this mouthwatering pastry:
- Croissant Roots: Croissants, known for their flaky, buttery layers, originated in France. The development of laminated dough, a method of folding butter into dough, led to the creation of these crescent-shaped pastries.
- Muffin Revolution: On the other side of the world, muffins became popular in the United States. They are quick breads, leavened with baking powder or soda, known for their moist, cake-like texture.
- The Hybrid Creation: In the culinary world, innovation knows no bounds. The cruffin, a combination of the croissant’s lamination process and the muffin’s ease of preparation, became a global sensation. Cinnamon, Fruit, and Almond Cruffins are a flavorful variation of this trend, adding fruity sweetness and nutty richness.
- Personalization: Cruffins, like other pastry hybrids, offer room for endless variations. Bakers can incorporate their favorite flavors, fillings, and toppings, making each batch unique.
- Homemade Goodness: While cruffins can be found in bakeries worldwide, they are also a favorite for home bakers. This recipe invites people to recreate the magic in their own kitchens.
Cinnamon, Fruit, and Almond Cruffins
Cinnamon, Fruit, and Almond Cruffins are a mouthwatering combination of buttery croissant dough, a fruity cinnamon filling, and a nutty almond streusel. The cruffins are baked to perfection, resulting in a golden exterior and a soft, flaky interior. The cinnamon-spiced fruit filling adds a burst of flavor, while the almond streusel topping provides a delightful crunch. These cruffins are a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds, and they are sure to become a favorite among your friends and family.
Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or mixing bowl: Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
- Measuring cups and spoons: Buy On Amazon
- Rolling pin: Buy On Amazon
- Pastry brush: Buy On Amazon
- Muffin tin: Buy On Amazon
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
- Cooling rack: Buy On Amazon
Ingredients
For the croissant dough:
For the cinnamon fruit filling:
For the almond streusel topping:
Step-by-Step Instructions
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
Add the cubed cold butter to the flour mixture. Mix on low speed or use your fingertips to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until a rough dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use the dough hook attachment on your stand mixer and knead for 5 minutes.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon fruit filling. In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
Toss the diced fruits in the cinnamon sugar mixture until coated. Set aside.
In another bowl, prepare the almond streusel topping. Mix the flour, granulated sugar, sliced almonds, and melted butter until crumbly. Set aside.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
Sprinkle the cinnamon fruit filling evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
Grease a muffin tin and line each cup with a strip of parchment paper or use silicone baking mats.
Place each dough piece into a muffin cup, spiral side up.
Cover the muffin tin with a kitchen towel and let the cruffins rise for another 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) during the last 15 minutes of the rising time.
Once the cruffins have risen, sprinkle the almond streusel topping over each cruffin.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
Remove the cruffins from the oven and let them cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes.
Transfer the cruffins to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 359.1kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20.92g33%
- Saturated Fat 11.88g60%
- Cholesterol 50.19mg17%
- Sodium 201.24mg9%
- Potassium 102.74mg3%
- Total Carbohydrate 39.29g14%
- Dietary Fiber 1.89g8%
- Sugars 14.14g
- Protein 4.8g10%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.
Note
Tips and Variations:
- For a shortcut, you can use store-bought croissant dough instead of making it from scratch.
- Feel free to customize the fruit filling based on your preference and the fruits available in your region.
- Add a drizzle of glaze or sprinkle powdered sugar on top of the cruffins for an extra touch of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy these warm cruffins as a breakfast treat or a delightful afternoon snack. They pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.
Allergen Information:
Cinnamon, Fruit, and Almond Cruffins can be adapted to accommodate various dietary needs, but it's important to consider potential allergens based on your recipe variation:
Nuts: The inclusion of almond paste or almond slices may pose a nut allergen risk. Ensure your recipe omits almonds or use nut-free alternatives.
Dairy: If the recipe includes butter, milk, or cream, be aware of potential dairy allergies. Substitute with dairy-free options like margarine, almond milk, or soy cream if needed.
Wine or Drink Pairing:
While Cinnamon, Fruit, and Almond Cruffins are typically enjoyed as a breakfast or snack item, you can elevate your experience with a complementary beverage:
Coffee: A freshly brewed cup of coffee, whether black or with cream and sugar, is a classic pairing that balances the sweetness and richness of the cruffins.
Tea: Opt for a light, fragrant tea like Earl Grey or Darjeeling for a more refined and elegant pairing.
Fruit Juice: If you prefer a non-caffeinated option, a glass of fresh orange juice or a mixed fruit blend complements the fruity elements of the cruffins.
Storage and Leftovers:
To ensure your Cinnamon, Fruit, and Almond Cruffins remain fresh and delightful for as long as possible:
Room Temperature: They can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days. However, to maintain their flaky texture, it's best to consume them on the day they are baked.
Reheating: If you have leftovers, a quick warm-up in the oven for a few minutes can restore the crispness of the outer layers and enhance the flavors.
