Is there anything more comforting than a warm, flaky croissant? Now imagine that perfection… but in mini form. Mini croissants are everything you love about the classic French pastry, buttery layers, golden crust, tender crumb, packed into an adorable, two-bite version. Whether served for brunch, snacks, or party appetizers, these little pastries make a big impression.
At Tasty Plated, Chef Rachael teaches a foolproof method for baking mini croissants at home, using either classic laminated dough or time-saving shortcuts. With the right shaping and baking tricks, your kitchen can smell (and taste) like a French bakery.
While full-sized croissants are a brunch icon, mini croissants bring added charm and versatility. They’re just the right size for:
Elegant appetizers with cheese or smoked salmon
Sweet treats with Nutella, jam, or powdered sugar
Kid-friendly snacks or lunchbox fillers
Bite-sized brunch boards
Freezer-friendly breakfasts
And let’s be honest, tiny food is just more fun.
Chef Rachael’s go-to recipe at Tasty Plated offers two options: full classic laminated dough for those who love the process, or a shortcut using store-bought puff pastry for quick results.
Chill dough often for clean layers and easier handling
Roll tightly from base to tip for the best crescent shape
Use an egg wash for a deep golden finish
Bake at high heat to encourage steam and flakiness
Fill just before rolling to avoid soggy centers
She recommends starting with a plain version to learn the shape, then experimenting with chocolate, jam, or cheese once confident.
This version uses store-bought puff pastry for simplicity and speed. Makes 16-20 mini croissants.
1 sheet puff pastry (thawed) or croissant dough
1 egg + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
Optional fillings:
Chocolate chips
Raspberry jam
Shredded cheese
Nutella
Ham slices
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out puff pastry slightly to flatten. Cut into 2-inch wide triangles.
Place a small amount of filling at the wide base of each triangle.
Roll tightly from base to tip, forming a crescent. Tuck ends slightly under.
Brush with egg wash for color and shine.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until puffed and golden.
Cool slightly before serving.
Filling Type | Flavor Notes | Texture Outcome | Best For |
---|---|---|---|
Dark chocolate chips | Rich and melty | Gooey center | Dessert boards or snacks |
Brie + fig jam | Sweet and creamy | Soft interior | Elegant appetizers |
Ham + cheddar | Savory, salty | Melted cheese middle | Brunch or lunchboxes |
Nutella + banana | Sweet and fruity | Warm and soft | Kids’ treats or breakfast |
Plain + sea salt | Buttery simplicity | Crisp and flaky | Pair with butter or jam |
These croissants may be mini, but they shine on any table:
Brunch platters with fruit, jam, and cheeses
Savory charcuterie boards with dips and spreads
Sweet trays with powdered sugar and whipped cream
Lunchboxes or snack packs for kids and adults alike
Coffee pairings for a quick breakfast
Presentation tip, arrange them in a heart or crescent on a board with flowers for events or holidays.
Storage Method | How Long | Tips |
---|---|---|
Room temp (sealed) | 1-2 days | Best when fresh, keep in a breadbox or container |
Fridge (filled croissants) | 2-3 days | Reheat for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness |
Freezer (baked) | Up to 1 month | Freeze in layers with parchment paper |
Reheat tip | 300°F oven or air fryer | Brings back flaky texture in minutes |
1. Can I make mini croissants without puff pastry?
Yes, use homemade laminated croissant dough for a more traditional pastry.
2. Can I make them sweet or savory?
Absolutely! Fillings are endlessly customizable depending on the occasion.
3. How do I keep them from unrolling?
Roll tightly and tuck the tip underneath. Use egg wash to help seal.
4. Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes, shape and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.
Mini croissants are tiny golden bundles of joy, flaky, buttery, and ready to make every occasion feel a little more special. Whether you’re serving a full brunch, packing snacks, or baking just for fun, these pastries offer the perfect balance of elegance and ease.
Chef Rachael’s method at Tasty Plated makes it easy to bring French bakery vibes to your kitchen, no passport needed.
Want more mini bakes and buttery bites? Visit tastyplated.com and roll your way into something delicious.