Few things say elegance and indulgence like a buttery, flaky croissant filled with luscious strawberries and sweet cream. The Strawberries and Cream Croissant is a heavenly combination of classic French pastry and fresh, fruity sweetness—perfect for brunch, Mother’s Day, or a romantic breakfast in bed.
This treat strikes the perfect balance between decadent and refreshing. With a crisp outer layer, airy interior, and silky cream filling, it looks as good as it tastes. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself, this easy yet elegant recipe will elevate any occasion.
The Charm of Strawberries and Cream
Strawberries and cream have long been a beloved pairing in desserts—from English garden parties to summer parfaits. The combination of tart berries and rich, velvety cream never fails to satisfy. When tucked into a golden croissant, the contrast in textures—crisp, soft, juicy, and smooth—creates a delightful mouthfeel and flavor explosion.
This recipe builds on store-bought or homemade croissants, making it a flexible choice whether you’re pressed for time or looking to bake from scratch.
Ingredients
For 6 croissants, you’ll need:
- 6 butter croissants (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- Optional: mint leaves or chocolate drizzle for garnish
Prep and Baking Time
- Prep Time: 15–20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (unless toasting croissants)
- Total Time: 20–25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Difficulty: Easy
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to create a light, fluffy filling.
Step 2: Slice the Croissants
Using a sharp knife, slice each croissant horizontally, but not all the way through—create a pocket, not two halves.
Optional: Lightly toast the croissants in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes for extra crispness.
Step 3: Assemble the Croissants
Spoon or pipe the cream mixture generously into each croissant. Layer sliced strawberries over the cream. Close gently, allowing the filling to peek out slightly for visual appeal.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Dust the tops with powdered sugar. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate if desired. Serve immediately or chill briefly for a firmer texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Croissant)
Approximate values will vary based on croissant size and ingredient brands:
- Calories: 380–420
- Fat: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 200mg
While these croissants are indulgent, their rich flavors mean one serving goes a long way in satisfying a sweet craving.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use ripe strawberries: Bright red, sweet, and firm strawberries add both color and flavor.
- Keep the cream cold: For the fluffiest texture, chill the mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream.
- Don’t overfill: Be generous with filling, but too much can cause the croissant to lose structure.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the cream filling in advance and assemble the croissants just before serving.
Elegant Presentation Ideas
Strawberries and cream croissants naturally lend themselves to a beautiful spread. Try these presentation tips:
- Brunch Board: Arrange croissants on a wooden board with fresh berries, jam, and a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Mini Version: Use mini croissants for a dainty tea-time snack or a buffet brunch option.
- Layered Dessert: Turn leftovers into a deconstructed dessert parfait—layer chopped croissants, cream, and strawberries in a glass.
Whether served on fine china or rustic wooden trays, this pastry looks picture-perfect in any setting.
Variations to Try
- Berry Mix: Substitute or mix in blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
- Lemon Twist: Add lemon zest to the cream filling for a fresh, citrusy contrast.
- Chocolate Lovers: Use chocolate croissants as the base or add Nutella beneath the cream.
These variations allow you to tailor the recipe to any season or taste preference.
Final Thoughts
Strawberries and Cream Croissants are more than just a treat—they’re an experience. They bring together texture, flavor, and presentation in one easy-to-make pastry that feels luxurious but is remarkably accessible.
With minimal ingredients and maximum impact, this recipe is a fantastic go-to for hosting, celebrating, or simply treating yourself to a little slice of heaven. Whether you enjoy it with morning coffee, at brunch with friends, or as a romantic dessert, this croissant creation is sure to impress.
So grab some fresh strawberries, whip up some sweet cream, and take your croissants to the next level. Bon appétit!