Indulge in golden croffles, a fusion of flaky croissant dough and crisp waffles. Lightly brushed with butter and sugar, each wedge cooks up airy and perfectly crisp in minutes. A soft vanilla whipped cream tops the croffles, with options to garnish with fresh berries, maple syrup, or a light dusting of powdered sugar. This easy dish promises a delightful mix of textures and flavors, perfect for special brunches or a sweet finish to any meal.
Crispy golden croffles blend everything I love about flaky croissants and classic waffles & with a dreamy whipped cream topping, this recipe feels both special and effortless. I reach for it anytime I want to make weekend breakfast feel celebratory or when friends drop in for a last minute treat.
It is one of those recipes that never fails to impress my guests I first whipped these up on New Year’s morning and now my friends expect them every time they come over
Ingredients
- Croissant dough triangles: choose a chilled can of ready made croissant dough or high quality all butter puff pastry cut into triangles Look for dough with visible layers for extra flakiness
- Unsalted butter: melted for brushing Dough needs that butter for rich taste and crisping up during cooking Always use fresh butter for best flavor
- Sugar: regular granulated sugar brings crunch and caramelized edges Sprinkle evenly to avoid burnt patches
- Heavy cream: very cold Essential for stable whipped cream Choose cream labeled heavy or whipping with a fat content of at least thirty five percent
- Powdered sugar: It dissolves quickly in the cream for sweetness Use fresh for lump free mixing
- Vanilla extract: pure vanilla deepens the flavor Go with real extract if possible as imitation can taste artificial
- Fresh berries: optional but highly recommended for a pop of color Tart berries contrast with the sweet whipped cream Choose berries that are firm and not mushy
- Maple syrup honey or powdered sugar: for garnish These add a little extra sweetness and a pretty finish Try to use pure syrup for the richest taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Waffle Iron:
- Preheat your waffle iron to medium or per the manufacturer’s directions Let it heat fully to ensure a crisp exterior
- Prep the Dough:
- Brush each croissant dough triangle lightly with melted butter for golden color and flavor Sprinkle each with a thin layer of sugar for crisp caramelized edges
- Cook the Croffles:
- Place each prepared dough triangle onto the hot waffle iron Close and cook for three to five minutes Watch closely The dough should puff and become deeply golden with crisp ridges Remove carefully with tongs and place on a wire rack to keep crunchy
- Make the Cream Topping:
- In a chilled mixing bowl add heavy cream powdered sugar and vanilla extract Whip with an electric mixer or whisk until soft peaks form Do not overbeat The cream should be billowy and soft
- Assemble and Serve:
- Place warm croffles on plates Dollop generously with whipped cream Add fresh berries if desired Drizzle with maple syrup or honey or dust with powdered sugar Serve immediately for the best texture
For me the best part is watching my kids sneak extra dollops of cream on their croffles Their sticky smiles and berry stained hands make clean up absolutely worth it I love using vanilla from a local spice shop Its aroma lingers long after the meal and reminds me of special holiday breakfasts at home
Storage Tips
Croffles taste best fresh off the waffle iron but if you have leftovers let them cool completely then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day To reheat use a low oven or toaster oven so they return to crispness Avoid the microwave to keep the outside crunchy Whipped cream is best whipped just before serving but extra can be kept in the fridge for up to one day and rewhipped briefly if it separates
Ingredient Substitutions
If croissant dough is not available try all butter puff pastry rolled and cut into triangles For a dairy free version choose plant based butter and a coconut cream for whipping You can also substitute brown sugar for a subtle caramel flavor or use flavored extracts like almond in the whipped cream
Serving Suggestions
These croffles make a decadent brunch centerpiece Cut each into smaller pieces for sharing at a brunch buffet Add bowls of fresh fruit berry compotes or even lemon curd for dipping For dessert try topping with chocolate shavings or roasted nuts When entertaining I like to offer a build your own croffle bar with an assortment of toppings
Cultural and Historical Context
Croffles are a recent fusion creation combining the French pastry tradition of croissants with the convenience and charm of a classic waffle They appeared in South Korean cafés before quickly gaining international appeal This treat has become beloved wherever eclectic brunch menus thrive
Seasonal Adaptations
Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or cardamom to the sugar mix in autumn Swap in citrus zest for a brighter springtime take Top with roasted stone fruits in summer or poached pears in winter
Success Stories
After introducing croffles at a family birthday brunch my aunts kept requesting the recipe The crisp buttery layers wow even the pickiest eaters One friend made them for a bridal shower and the plate vanished in minutes
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can freeze uncooked croissant dough triangles dusted with sugar and butter on a tray Once solid transfer them to a freezer bag and keep for up to one month Let them thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking The whipped cream topping is best prepared fresh
A little effort yields an indulgent treat that will brighten any breakfast. Try it once & you may find croffles become your new brunch tradition.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is a croffle?
-
A croffle combines croissant dough and the crispiness of a waffle, cooked in a waffle iron for a unique texture.
- → Can I use puff pastry instead of croissant dough?
-
Yes, store-bought puff pastry cut into triangles works well as an alternative to croissant dough for this dish.
- → Is the whipped cream topping sweetened?
-
Yes, heavy cream is whipped with powdered sugar and vanilla extract for a lightly sweetened, airy topping.
- → Are there optional toppings for extra flavor?
-
Try fresh berries, maple syrup, honey, or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra taste and presentation.
- → What tools do I need to make croffles?
-
You’ll need a waffle iron, mixing bowl, pastry brush, and an electric mixer or whisk for the cream.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
-
Yes, croffles with cream can fit a vegetarian diet, but always check ingredients if using store-bought dough.