There’s something utterly delightful about the first bite of a flaky pastry that reveals a hidden layer of sweet almond frangipane. These Sourdough Almond Cruffins are my latest obsession, and I can’t wait to share them with you! Perfectly marrying the textures of a croissant and a muffin, each cruffin is a little warm hug on a plate. The rich almond filling and a crunchy sprinkle of slivered almonds on top make them an irresistible treat, whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast or as an elegant dessert.
On days when I feel the urge to elevate my baking game, I turn to this recipe, especially when I have leftover sourdough discard. Not only do these cruffins put that tangy treasure to use, they also impress my friends and family with their gourmet charm. Trust me, these pastries are easier to make than they look and offer a rewarding experience for at-home bakers of all levels. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Why are Sourdough Almond Cruffins a must-try?
Irresistible flavors: The combination of creamy almond frangipane and flaky pastry ensures a taste sensation that delights.
Unique twist: Using sourdough discard not only reduces waste but also adds a tangy depth to the flavor.
Gourmet appeal: Impress family and friends with these bakery-style pastries right from your own kitchen.
Versatile enjoyment: Perfect for breakfast or dessert, they cater to any occasion or craving.
Easier than you think: With a bit of patience, you can master this surprisingly simple pastry that will elevate your baking skills.
Sourdough Almond Cruffins Ingredients
For the Dough
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure for the pastry; gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of the pastry.
• Salted butter – Adds richness and creates flaky layers; unsalted butter works well too.
• Water – Hydrates the dough; remember to use cold water for the best results.
• Sourdough discard – Adds tangy flavor and unique texture; ensure it’s active for optimal results.
For the Frangipane Filling
• Almond flour – Forms the base of the filling and offers a delightful nutty flavor.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the almond filling; consider using a sugar alternative for lower sugar options.
• Egg – Binds the filling ingredients together; for a vegan option, a flax egg is a great substitute.
• Almond extract – Intensifies the almond flavor in the filling; vanilla extract can also be used if desired.
• Vanilla extract – Adds warmth to the filling; it’s optional but enhances the flavor nicely.
For the Topping
• Slivered almonds – Provides a delightful crunch on top; chopped hazelnuts or pistachios can be good alternatives.
• Powdered sugar – A light dusting adds a sweet finishing touch after baking.
How to Make Sourdough Almond Cruffins
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Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, and sourdough discard. Add in chilled butter and cold water, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
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Laminating the Dough: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface, then fold it several times to create layers. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes between folds to keep the butter cold.
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Make the Frangipane Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together almond flour, granulated sugar, egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract until you reach a smooth consistency.
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Assemble the Cruffins: Roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle, evenly spread the frangipane filling over it, then cut into strips. Roll each strip tightly into a coil.
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Preheat & Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the cruffins on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes until they turn golden brown. Tent with foil if they brown too quickly.
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Finishing Touches: Just before baking is done, sprinkle slivered almonds on top of each cruffin for added crunch. After cooling slightly, dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
Optional: Serve warm with a side of coffee or tea for an exquisite treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Sourdough Almond Cruffins?
Indulge in delightful pairings that enhance your experience and transform your Sourdough Almond Cruffins into a memorable meal.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries add a burst of freshness and a pop of color, balancing the sweetness of the cruffins.
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Creamy Coffee: A warm cup of rich coffee complements the buttery pastry, creating a harmonious moment between sips and bites.
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Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream transforms each cruffin into a luxurious dessert, perfect to savor alongside afternoon tea.
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Citrus Salad: A refreshing citrus salad with oranges and grapefruits brightens your plate, offering a zesty contrast to the almond-rich pastry.
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Chai Tea: The warming spices of chai create a cozy atmosphere, pairing beautifully with the nutty notes of the almond filling.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For an elegant dessert option, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream; the creamy texture will elevate your cruffin experience.
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Almond Milk: A glass of almond milk enhances the nutty flavor and rounds out this delightful breakfast treat, making it a great morning choice.
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Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of rich dark chocolate adds an indulgent touch, perfect for those who love a sweet, sophisticated dessert.
Expert Tips for Sourdough Almond Cruffins
- Active Sourdough Discard: Ensure your sourdough discard is bubbly and active for optimal flavor and texture in your cruffins.
- Keep It Cool: Always work with cold butter and dough; this helps maintain those heavenly flaky layers.
- Don’t Overwork Dough: Mix until just combined to avoid a dense pastry; gentle handling is key for lightness.
- Egg Wash Magic: Applying an egg wash before baking provides a beautiful, golden crust—don’t skip this step!
- Serve Warm: For the best experience, enjoy your Sourdough Almond Cruffins slightly warm; they’re deliciously decadent this way.
How to Store and Freeze Sourdough Almond Cruffins
- Room Temperature: Keep cruffins in an airtight container for up to 2 days for best texture and flavor. Avoid moisture to prevent sogginess.
- Fridge: If you need to store for longer, refrigerate them for up to 4 days. Reheat before serving to restore some flakiness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cruffins in a freezer-safe airtight container for up to 3 months. Wrap each cruffin individually in plastic wrap for best results.
- Reheating: To enjoy them warm and flaky, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Sourdough Almond Cruffins Twist it Up
Feel free to explore your creativity with this recipe by making delicious substitutions and variations!
- Citrus Kick: Substitute almond extract with orange or lemon zest for a refreshing twist that brightens the flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Experiment with hazelnut flour instead of almond flour to give your filling a unique and rich taste.
- Chocolate Indulgence: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the almond frangipane for a decadent dessert option that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Vegan Option: For a fully vegan cruffin, replace the egg with a flax egg and use dairy-free butter.
- Dried Fruits: Consider folding in dried cherries or apricots into the frangipane for a delightful burst of fruity sweetness.
- Spicy Twist: Incorporate a pinch of cardamom or cinnamon into the frangipane for a warmly spiced flavor that evokes comfort.
- Savory Surprise: Skip the sweetness and fill the cruffins with a savory almond paste, cheese, and herbs for a tasty brunch alternative.
- Gluten-Free Fun: For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring your baking powder is gluten-free too.
These variations can take your Sourdough Almond Cruffins to a whole new level. Enjoy experimenting!
Make Ahead Options
These Sourdough Almond Cruffins are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply make the dough and store it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. The frangipane filling can also be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your cruffins, roll out the dough, spread the filling, and bake as instructed for a fresh, flaky pastry that tastes just as delicious as if made the same day. This way, you’ll have gourmet cruffins on hand with minimal effort during your busy mornings or special brunches!
Sourdough Almond Cruffins Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe sourdough discard?
Absolutely! Ensure your sourdough discard is bubbly and has a tangy aroma, indicating it’s active and ready to be used. If it has dark spots or an off-putting smell, it’s best to discard it.
What’s the best way to store Sourdough Almond Cruffins?
For best results, store your cruffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them flaky and delicious. If you need to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 4 days, but be sure to reheat before serving to help restore their texture.
Can I freeze Sourdough Almond Cruffins?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your cruffins, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes, allowing them to regain their lovely flakiness.
What if my dough is too sticky or dry?
Very! If your dough is too sticky, try dusting your work surface with a little extra flour, but be careful not to add too much, as this can make the dough tough. If it’s too dry, you can incorporate a tablespoon of cold water at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. Working gently and quickly helps maintain that flaky texture we’re after!
Are Sourdough Almond Cruffins pet-friendly?
No, they aren’t! These cruffins contain ingredients like almond extract and sugar that may not be suitable for pets. Always check with your veterinarian before sharing any human treats with your furry friends, and enjoy these delicacies yourself!
Can I make the frangipane filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the almond frangipane filling a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your cruffins. This not only saves you time but also infuses the almond flavor even deeper!
Sourdough Almond Cruffins: Elevate Your Breakfast Game Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Dough: Combine all-purpose flour, salt, and sourdough discard. Add chilled butter and cold water until a cohesive dough forms.
- Laminating the Dough: Roll out the dough on a floured surface, fold repeatedly to create layers, and refrigerate for 30 minutes between folds.
- Make the Frangipane Filling: Whisk together almond flour, granulated sugar, egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Assemble the Cruffins: Roll out dough, spread frangipane, cut into strips and roll tightly into coils.
- Preheat & Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), bake for 30 minutes until golden brown.
- Finishing Touches: Sprinkle slivered almonds before baking, dust with powdered sugar when cooled.