If you’re a fan of buttery almond croissants and chewy blondies, this Almond Croissant Blondies Recipe with Frangipane is going to be your new favorite treat! These decadent bars combine the rich, nutty flavor of frangipane with the chewy, caramelized goodness of classic blondies. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these blondies are an irresistible dessert perfect for almond lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Almond Lovers: Packed with almond flavor from almond extract, almond flour, and sliced almonds.
- Easy to Make: No need for complicated techniques—just mix, swirl, and bake.
- Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or dessert.
- Deliciously Buttery: Inspired by French almond croissants but in blondie form!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Blondies:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 & ⅓ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ⅓ cup almond flour
- ½ cup sliced almonds (for topping)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
For the Frangipane:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- ¼ teaspoon orange zest (optional but recommended)
- ⅔ cup almond flour
- Pinch of salt
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Wooden skewer or toothpick (for swirling the frangipane)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
How to Make Almond Croissant Blondies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Frangipane
- In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg yolk, orange zest, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- Fold in the almond flour and a pinch of salt until a smooth paste forms. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Blondies
- In a large bowl, mix the softened butter and brown sugar until well combined.
- Add the egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth.
- Add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and almond flour. Stir until just combined—do not overmix.
- Spread the blondie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Spoon the frangipane on top of the batter and swirl it using a wooden skewer or toothpick.
- Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 30 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly firm. The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the blondies to cool in the pan before dusting with powdered sugar and slicing into squares. Enjoy!
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freezer: Wrap individual blondies in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
- Chocolate Almond Blondies: Add ½ cup of dark chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
- Citrus Boost: Double the orange zest in the frangipane for a brighter citrus flavor.
- Nut-Free Version: Replace almond flour with oat flour and omit the sliced almonds.
Serving Suggestions
- With Coffee: These blondies pair beautifully with a cappuccino or espresso.
- With Tea: Serve with Earl Grey or chamomile tea for a relaxing treat.
- With Ice Cream: Enjoy warm blondies with a scoop of vanilla or almond-flavored ice cream.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought frangipane?
Yes! If you’re short on time, store-bought frangipane will work in a pinch. However, homemade frangipane has a fresher, richer flavor.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These blondies taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store them in an airtight container.
Do I need to toast the sliced almonds before baking?
No, the almonds will toast beautifully in the oven while the blondies bake, adding a crunchy texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Simply double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Increase the baking time by about 5-10 minutes.
Final Thoughts
These Almond Croissant Blondies with Frangipane are the perfect indulgence for anyone who loves the flavors of almond croissants and chewy blondies. They’re easy to make, full of rich, nutty flavor, and perfect for any occasion.
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