Imagine everything you love about tender, flaky croissants meeting the bold flavors of garlic butter – that’s exactly what makes Buttery Garlic Baked Croissants the highlight of any meal. With golden, crisp edges and a warm, aromatic interior, these croissants are ridiculously easy to make and turn the simplest ingredients into a truly irresistible treat. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping side or simply want to jazz up your bread basket, these croissants guarantee plenty of oohs, ahhs, and seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a part in creating the irresistible aroma, softness, and golden sheen of Buttery Garlic Baked Croissants. Simple, everyday items come together to create a bread basket superstar – each one matters, so here’s why:
- Plain croissants: Day-old croissants soak up the garlic butter even better, but fresh ones work great for extra fluffiness.
- Unsalted butter: Melted and rich, butter is the magic that turns these treats into something decadent and crave-worthy.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings pungent aroma and mild heat that infuses right into every flake.
- Fresh parsley: Just a tablespoon brightens everything up with its herby, green pop and color.
- Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a layer of umami and salt, with little pockets of cheesy goodness tucked inside.
- Salt: A pinch sharpens the flavors and harmonizes the richness of the butter and croissant.
How to Make Buttery Garlic Baked Croissants
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
First, set the mood for those luscious Buttery Garlic Baked Croissants by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper – this guarantees easy cleanup and helps the croissants crisp up nicely on the bottom, so nothing distracts you from that first, glorious bite.
Step 2: Mix the Magic Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine your melted butter, minced garlic, fresh chopped parsley, and that optional but highly recommended sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, plus just a pinch of salt. Stir together until you have a fragrant, golden mixture. Pro tip: inhale deeply. Your kitchen should start to smell like bistro heaven!
Step 3: Slice and Fill Your Croissants
Carefully slice each croissant in half horizontally – like opening a book – but keep one edge intact so your “book” doesn’t fall apart. Gently open each croissant and slather the inside with the garlic butter mixture using a pastry brush or spoon. Fold the croissant closed and let it hug all that flavor inside.
Step 4: Brush the Tops
Take your remaining garlic butter and lightly brush it over the tops of the filled croissants. This step is key for getting that golden-brown, glossy finish once they bake – and it adds a final layer of flavor you definitely don’t want to skip.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Crisp
Arrange your prepared croissants on the parchment-lined baking sheet and slide them into the oven. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the edges just start to crisp. The aroma will absolutely announce that something special is happening in your kitchen. Serve these beauties warm, while the butter still glistens inside every flaky layer.
How to Serve Buttery Garlic Baked Croissants
Garnishes
Right before serving, a tiny shower of extra parsley or even a light grating of Parmesan can make your Buttery Garlic Baked Croissants look extra inviting. A little bit of fresh cracked pepper also adds a pop of color and a gentle bite to match the richness.
Side Dishes
These croissants shine alongside a hot bowl of tomato soup, creamy pastas, or next to a lively green salad. They’re irresistible with pretty much any comfort dish, soaking up sauces and cozying up with hearty flavors on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack them artfully on a rustic board for a family-style side, or place each croissant in a napkin-lined basket if you’re serving at brunch. For appetizers, slice into three and arrange with toothpicks for poppable, bite-sized party snacks. For extra fun, offer a few dips on the side (think herbed cream cheese or spicy honey!).
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extras (highly unlikely, but let’s dream!), stash your Buttery Garlic Baked Croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day, or in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps them as flaky and delicious as possible for another round.
Freezing
These croissants freeze beautifully! Once cool, wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap and store in a zip-top bag. Freeze for up to a month, then thaw at room temperature whenever you crave a batch of garlicky goodness.
Reheating
To restore the buttery crispness, reheat croissants in a 350°F (175°C) oven for five minutes, straight from the fridge or after thawing. Microwaving works in a pinch, but baking keeps that crunch and melts the garlic butter right back in.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought croissants for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought croissants are perfect for Buttery Garlic Baked Croissants, especially if they’re a bit stale or day-old – they soak up the garlic butter even better for maximum flavor.
Is it possible to make these vegan?
Yes! Swap the butter for your favorite vegan butter and skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based version. The result will still be beautifully rich and flavorful, with all the same crispy, flaky charm.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
No worries – dried parsley works fine in a pinch (use about 1 teaspoon). Other fresh herbs like chives, basil, or thyme can add their own unique twist to your Buttery Garlic Baked Croissants as well.
Can I add more cheese inside?
Why not? Shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or fontina melt perfectly inside the croissants and add a stretchy, cheesy surprise. Just sprinkle it over the butter mixture when filling before baking.
How can I make them extra crispy?
For ultra-crispy edges, turn on your oven’s broiler for the last 1–2 minutes of baking but watch them closely! That final blast of heat creates a golden, bakery-style finish on your croissant tops.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something universally joyful about sharing fresh-baked Buttery Garlic Baked Croissants. Whether you’re planning a laid-back brunch or the ultimate cozy dinner, this simple recipe is destined to become a new staple. Give it a try, and watch these croissants disappear from the table faster than you ever thought possible!
Print
Buttery Garlic Baked Croissants Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 croissants 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the irresistible aroma and flavor of Buttery Garlic Baked Croissants. These flaky pastries are infused with a savory garlic butter mixture, creating a delightful side dish or snack.
Ingredients
Croissants:
- 6 plain croissants (day-old or fresh)
Garlic Butter Mixture:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, Parmesan (if using), and a pinch of salt.
- Prepare the croissants: Slice each croissant in half horizontally, brush the garlic butter mixture inside, then gently close them. Brush the tops with the remaining butter.
- Bake: Place the croissants on the baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and slightly crispy. Serve warm.
Notes
- Perfect as a side for soups, salads, or pasta dishes.
- You can prep ahead and refrigerate before baking.
- For extra richness, add shredded mozzarella inside before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, French-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 croissant
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
