There’s something undeniably delightful about a mini croissant. These petite, golden pastries offer all the rich, buttery layers of a classic French croissant but in a size that’s perfect for brunch spreads, party platters, or anytime snacking.
Whether you’re baking them from scratch or starting with puff pastry, mini croissants are a fun and approachable project that delivers big satisfaction in small bites. Their crisp exterior, soft center, and elegant shape make them a favorite for both casual and special occasions.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- What sets mini croissants apart from full size ones
- A simple ingredient list and filling ideas
- Chef Lucas Benette’s pro tips for shaping and baking
- Step by step instructions for perfect results
- FAQs on storing, freezing, and reheating
What Makes a Mini Croissant Special?
Mini croissants aren’t just “small croissants.” They’re bite sized pastries with big character. Here’s why they’re so loved by home bakers and food lovers alike:
Perfectly Portionable
Each mini croissant is the ideal size for one or two bites great for parties, buffets, lunchboxes, or brunch boards. They’re elegant without being fussy.
Same Flaky Layers, Less Time
Because they’re smaller, mini croissants proof and bake faster than standard ones. You still get buttery, golden layers just quicker and easier.
Great for Sweet or Savory Fillings
From chocolate and jam to cheese, ham, or pesto, these croissants are the perfect shell for just about any flavor combo. Keep them plain or stuff them with your favorites.
Elegant and Approachable
Whether served at a baby shower, tea party, or tucked into a bento box, mini croissants add a touch of French charm to any table.
Ingredients for Homemade Mini Croissants
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to laminated dough, there are two ways to make a mini croissant: from scratch with yeast leavened dough or with ready made puff pastry. Both result in flaky, buttery bites you just choose your time and comfort level.
Ingredients for Croissant Dough (From Scratch)
Yields about 20 mini croissants
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ¼ cup warm water (110°F)
- ¾ cup warm milk
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 ¼ cups all purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (for dough)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold (for lamination)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Quick Version with Puff Pastry
If you’re short on time or prefer a shortcut:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed but still cold
- 1 egg, beaten
- Optional: jam, chocolate chips, cheese, or herbs for filling
Tip: Choose all butter puff pastry if available for the best texture and taste.
Optional Fillings:
- Sweet: chocolate chips, almond cream, fruit jam, cinnamon sugar
- Savory: ham & cheese, pesto, sun dried tomatoes, herbed cream cheese
Pro Tip: Chill everything especially your butter and dough. Cold ingredients = defined, flaky layers once baked.
Chef Lucas Benette’s Croissant Making Tips
When it comes to crafting the perfect mini croissant, Chef Lucas Benette believes the key lies in precision, temperature, and patience. Whether you’re using homemade dough or puff pastry, his insights can help you create crisp, golden pastries with beautifully layered interiors.
1. Keep It Cold, Always
“The butter needs to stay cold to form layers,” Lucas says.
- Chill your dough between folds
- If it starts to get soft or sticky, pop it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes
- Cold butter = distinct flaky layers, not melted pockets
2. Roll and Cut Precisely
- Roll your dough or puff pastry into a thin rectangle, about ⅛ inch thick
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut long triangles, about 3 inches wide at the base for minis
- Lucas recommends trimming the edges for clean layers during baking
3. Roll Tightly from Base to Tip
- Start from the wide end and roll toward the point
- Slightly stretch the dough as you roll to keep the spiral tight
- Place the tip underneath the croissant to prevent unrolling during baking
4. Proof with Care
“Don’t rush the rise it’s the secret to puff,” Lucas explains.
Let your shaped croissants rise for 45–60 minutes in a warm, draft free spot until puffy, not flat.
5. Apply a Glossy Egg Wash
- Beat 1 egg with 1 tsp water
- Gently brush on before baking for a shiny, golden brown finish
Chef’s Note: For a crisp base, bake croissants on parchment lined metal trays, not silicone mats. It helps brown the bottoms evenly.
How to Make Mini Croissants (Step by Step)
Ready to bring buttery, flaky perfection to life? Follow these steps to make mini croissants using either homemade croissant dough or store bought puff pastry. The results: golden, crisp layers and just the right amount of indulgence in every bite.
Step by Step Using Homemade Dough:
1. Prepare the Dough (Day 1)
- Mix yeast, warm water, milk, sugar, flour, salt, and softened butter.
- Knead into a soft dough and chill overnight.
2. Laminate with Cold Butter (Day 2)
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle.
- Place a slab of cold butter in the center and fold like a letter.
- Chill and repeat the folding process 3 times, resting in the fridge between each fold.
3. Cut & Shape Mini Croissants
- Roll dough to ⅛ inch thick rectangle
- Cut long triangles about 3 inches wide at the base
- Roll each triangle from base to tip and place seam side down on a parchment lined tray
4. Proof Until Puffy
- Let the croissants rise for 45–60 minutes in a warm, draft free area
- They should look airy and slightly jiggly when ready
5. Egg Wash & Bake
- Brush with beaten egg
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, until golden brown
Quick Method Using Puff Pastry:
1. Roll and Cut
- Unfold a sheet of cold puff pastry
- Roll out slightly and cut into small triangles (3×5 inch)
2. Fill & Roll (Optional)
- Add small chocolate chips, jam, or ham and cheese
- Roll tightly from base to point and place seam down
3. Chill, Egg Wash & Bake
- Chill tray for 10 minutes
- Brush with egg wash
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until puffed and golden
Extra Tips:
- Want even browning? Rotate your tray halfway through baking.
- Let cool 5–10 minutes before serving warm, not hot, brings out the flavor best.
Mini Croissant Fillings & Shaping Table
Mini croissants are incredibly versatile perfect for sweet treats, savory bites, or elegant appetizers. Below is a table of popular fillings and shaping styles to inspire your next batch.
Filling & Shaping Ideas
| Filling Idea | Sweet or Savory | Recommended Shape | Flavor Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chocolate chips | Sweet | Classic crescent roll | Melts into a gooey center |
| Almond cream (frangipane) | Sweet | Crescent or pinwheel | Buttery, nutty, and rich |
| Raspberry jam | Sweet | Triangle fold over | Tart and bright |
| Ham + Gruyère cheese | Savory | Crescent or twist | A French style breakfast bite |
| Pesto + mozzarella | Savory | Mini twist or roll | Herby and cheesy |
| Cinnamon sugar + butter | Sweet | Spiral or classic crescent | Like a mini cinnamon roll |
| Sun dried tomato + feta | Savory | Roll or pinwheel | Tangy and bold |
Tip: Avoid overfilling about 1 tsp for minis is plenty. Seal edges gently and place seam side down for the cleanest bake.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve sweet ones with coffee, tea, or fruit preserves
- Serve savory ones warm with mustard, dipping sauces, or soups
- Add to brunch boards, lunchboxes, or wine and cheese platters
FAQs About Mini Croissants
1. Does Aldi sell mini croissants?
Yes, Aldi often carries mini croissants in their bakery section or packaged baked goods aisle. They are usually available in 6 or 12 count packs and may include plain, butter, or chocolate filled varieties. Availability can vary by location and season.
2. Are mini croissants healthy?
Mini croissants are a treat, not a health food but their small size makes portion control easier. Made with butter and refined flour, they’re higher in fat and carbs, but when enjoyed in moderation, they can absolutely fit into a balanced diet especially when served with fruit or protein rich sides.
3. Where did the 7 Days mini croissant come from?
The 7 Days mini croissant brand originated in Greece, created by the Chipita company. These packaged croissants became popular across Europe and are now widely available internationally. They come in various fillings like hazelnut cream, vanilla, or strawberry and are known for their soft texture and long shelf life.
4. How long do you bake mini croissants?
Mini croissants typically bake at 375–400°F (190–200°C) for 12 to 18 minutes, depending on the dough and filling. They’re done when they’re golden brown, puffed, and firm to the touch. Always preheat your oven and avoid underbaking crisp layers need time to develop.
Final Thoughts on Baking Mini Croissants at Home
Whether you’re impressing guests, treating yourself, or making a brunch board to remember, mini croissants are the perfect bite sized indulgence. They offer all the charm and richness of a classic croissant just smaller, quicker, and even more versatile.
Make a batch ahead of time, mix up your fillings, and don’t be afraid to get creative with the shapes. With a little patience and a few pro tips from Chef Lucas Benette, you’ll have flaky, buttery perfection in every golden spiral.
