Pumpkin Croissants – Flaky, Buttery & Perfect for Fall

Last updated on August 7, 2025

As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to dance in shades of orange and gold, I can’t help but feel a deep yearning for the flavors of fall. One particularly cozy memory comes rushing back to me: the scent of freshly baked pumpkin pastries wafting through my grandmother’s kitchen, wrapping me in a warm embrace. This delightful aroma still lingers in my mind, reminding me of laughter, love, and warm family gatherings. Today, I want to share with you a recipe that captures this very essence: Pumpkin Croissants.

If you’ve been wanting to attempt a pastry that feels gourmet but is surprisingly simple, you’ve come to the right place. This post will guide you step-by-step, making it stress-free—even if it’s your first time. Your kitchen will soon echo with the sweet and nutty scents of almond and pumpkin, and let me assure you, you will be immensely proud of what you create!

Why I Love This Recipe of Pumpkin Croissants

This pumpkin croissant recipe holds a special place in my heart. There’s just something magical about combining the flakiness of a croissant with the warmth of pumpkin. The first time I made these, I nervously unrolled the dough, expecting disaster. But instead, my kitchen transformed into a mini bakery filled with delightful aromas and vibrant colors. The best part? This recipe is incredibly forgiving and adaptable, making it perfect for beginner cooks.

I love how it nourishes the soul—not just through its delightful taste but also through the memories it creates. Each time I bake these croissants, I feel like I am passing down a tradition, just as my grandmother did. Whether you’re sharing them with family on a chilly morning or savoring them alone with a hot cup of coffee, these croissants make everything feel just a little bit cozier.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Pumpkin Croissants

Before we dive into the pastry heart of this recipe, let’s gather all the essentials.

Pumpkin Croissants

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• Author: Sarah Mendez
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 croissants 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Pumpkin Croissants are flaky, buttery pastries filled with a luscious pumpkin almond cream and topped with sliced almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for cozy fall mornings or festive holiday brunches, they’re simple to make and full of warm seasonal flavors. Use store-bought croissants or dough for a shortcut version!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• Base:
  • 6 medium croissants (or 4 large)
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp water
• Pumpkin Almond Cream:
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar (loosely packed)
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• Topping:
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • Sliced almonds (for garnish)
  • Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
• Optional Add-Ins:
  • Dark chocolate chips
  • Chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for extra flavor in the cream)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make Honey Syrup: In a microwave-safe bowl, mix honey and water. Microwave for 20 seconds and stir until dissolved. Set aside to cool.
3. Prepare Pumpkin Almond Cream: In a bowl, mix almond flour, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. In another bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add pumpkin puree, then gradually add dry ingredients to form a smooth cream.
4. Fill Croissants: Slice croissants open and spread a generous amount of pumpkin almond cream inside. Gently roll them back up.
5. Bake: Arrange filled croissants on the baking sheet. Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with sliced almonds. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.
6. Cool and Dust: Let croissants cool slightly. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Notes

• Shortcut: Use store-bought croissant dough to save time.
• Spice Substitute: Use 3/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the pumpkin cream up to 2 days in advance and store in the fridge.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American, French-Inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 croissant
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 190mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: pumpkin croissants, fall breakfast pastry, almond cream croissant, easy croissant dessert, pumpkin almond croissant

Essentials:

• Croissants: 6 medium croissants (or use 4 large if you prefer).
• Honey: 2 tablespoons for a touch of sweetness.
• Water: 2 tablespoons to create your honey syrup.
• Almond Flour: 1/2 cup adds a nutty flavor and a tender texture.
• All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup for the classic croissant base.
• Ground Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon to warm those autumn vibes.
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon to enhance the flavors.
• Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon (freshly ground if possible) for that holiday warmth.
• Unsalted Butter: 6 tablespoons at room temperature to build richness.
• Light Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup, loosely packed, for a caramel-like depth.
• Pumpkin Puree: 1/2 cup—I highly recommend using homemade if you can.
• Egg: 1 for a luscious, glossy wash on top.
• Sliced Almonds: as needed for garnish.
• Confectioners Sugar: as needed for that pretty finish.

Optional Add-ons:

• Dark chocolate chips for a rich twist.
• Chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• A dash of vanilla extract in the cream for extra flavor.

Substitutions and Shortcuts:

If you’re looking for shortcuts, feel free to use store-bought croissant dough. This can significantly cut down on time and make this recipe even more accessible. Additionally, if you’re in a pinch, pumpkin spice can replace the separate spices (cinnamon and nutmeg) in this recipe.

How to Make Pumpkin Croissants Step-by-Step

When it comes to making pumpkin croissants, the journey is just as enjoyable as the destination.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Let’s set our scene by preheating the oven to 350 degrees F. While that warms up, line a large sheet pan with parchment paper. This will keep the croissants from sticking, allowing them to bake evenly.

Step 2: Make Your Honey Syrup

In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of honey and 2 tablespoons of water. Pop it into the microwave for about 20 seconds or until hot. Stir with a spoon until well combined and allow it to cool while we prepared the pumpkin almond cream.

Step 3: Make Pumpkin Almond Cream

In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup almond flour, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg. In another bowl, cream together 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of light brown sugar until it’s nice and fluffy. Add in the pumpkin puree and mix until blended. Incorporate the dry ingredients gradually until you have a smooth and creamy mixture.

Step 4: Assemble the Croissants

On a clean surface, lay out your croissants sideways. Spread a generous layer of your pumpkin almond cream on the inside of each croissant. Roll them gently, starting from one end, ensuring that the filling is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake

Place each rolled croissant on the lined baking sheet, brushing them with the egg wash made from your solo egg. Sprinkle some sliced almonds on top and pop them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.

Step 6: Finish with Sweet Dusting

Once baked, let the croissants cool slightly before dusting them with confectioners’ sugar. This adds a touch of sweetness and visual delight.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Pumpkin Croissants

To ensure that your pumpkin croissants turn out perfect, let’s tackle some common pitfalls.

Overworking the Dough

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is overworking the croissant dough. This can lead to tough, chewy pastries instead of the flaky ones we’re aiming for. Remember to handle the dough gently and roll it out with care.

Skipping the Honey Syrup

Don’t skip the honey syrup! It not only sweetens the croissant interior but also helps to maintain moisture, giving you that delightful bite that’s soft yet rich.

Not Preheating the Oven Enough

Another error can be underestimating the importance of preheating your oven. Croissants need that initial blast of heat to rise and brown appropriately. Ensure your oven is fully heated before baking your creations.

Not Allowing to Cool Before Serving

It’s tempting to dive right in, but allowing these croissants to cool will ensure that the flavors develop fully. Plus, they are easier to handle when they aren’t freshly out of the oven.

Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Croissants

These pumpkin croissants can serve as the perfect addition to any meal or occasion.

Ideal for Breakfast

Served warm alongside your morning brew, these croissants are a brunch classic. Pair them with a lightly brewed coffee or a pumpkin spice latte, and you have a feast that welcomes the morning sun.

Perfect for Afternoon Tea

Imagine having guests over for a cozy gathering. Serve these pumpkin croissants with a side of herbal tea and sliced apples. It’s a delightful way to elevate an afternoon chat into something truly special.

Holiday Gatherings

The festive season calls for something extraordinary. These croissants make a charming addition to a holiday brunch or as a dessert centerpiece. They’re perfect for sharing and will surely impress your loved ones.

Gift Them

Wrapped carefully in a pretty box or paper, these baked goods can become delightful gifts for friends or neighbors. Add a handwritten note to spread that warm and cozy feeling.

Pro-Level Tips for When You’re Ready

Once you feel comfortable with the basics, here are some pro-level insights to elevate your croissant-making skills.

Experiment with Fillings

Don’t hesitate to mix up the fillings! Add a layer of chocolate or try a spiced apple filling for a delightful twist. The world is your oyster when it comes to flavor.

Use Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality butter, vanilla, and spices can take your croissants from good to great. I always recommend sourcing fresh spices and pure extracts for the best flavors.

Get Creative with Shapes

Who says croissants must always be crescent-shaped? Try rolling them into pinwheels or spirals. Adding a creative touch could make your cooking experience much more enjoyable.

Master the Egg Wash

For a perfect golden-brown finish, ensure your egg wash covers every inch of the croissants evenly. It’s the finishing touch that gives them that elevated bakery look.

Conclusion & Next Steps

There you have it! Your guide to making pumpkin croissants that are easier than they look, wonderfully cozy, and perfect for anyone from beginners to seasoned home cooks. You can customize them in so many delightful ways, and they truly add warmth to any gathering or quiet moment at home.

As you step away from this post, I encourage you to roll up your sleeves and give these croissants a try. Before you know it, your kitchen will fill with those nostalgic scents, and you may just create new memories of your own.

Let me know how your pumpkin croissants turn out! Share your thoughts and any variations you choose in the comments below. I can’t wait to hear about your cozy baking adventures!

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FAQs About Pumpkin Croissants