The sweet and flaky pastry that is kouign-amann has stolen the hearts of many a foodie. This buttery, croissant-like treat originated in Brittany, France, where it’s been a staple since the early 20th century. But why stop at just one flavor when you can have 20? In this article, we’ll be exploring some of the most delicious and creative kouign-amann recipes out there. From classic Breton to chocolate-filled, apple cinnamon to savory cheese, and everything in between – we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a new dessert to try, these 20 mouthwatering recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more.
Classic Breton Kouign-Amann
This traditional French pastry from Brittany is a masterclass in simplicity and elegance. With its layers of buttery dough and caramelized sugar, the Classic Breton Kouign-Amann is a must-try for anyone looking to impress with a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
2. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the granulated sugar and mix until just combined.
4. Gradually pour in the milk while gently mixing the dough.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, triangles).
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate-Filled Kouign-Amann
This French-inspired pastry combines buttery, flaky dough with a gooey chocolate center, creating an irresistible treat for any chocolate lover. With just a few simple steps, you can create these decadent pastries at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add yeast and whisk until combined.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, milk, egg, and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place a few chocolate chips in the center of each piece. Fold edges over to form a triangle or square, pressing gently to seal.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Kouign-Amann
Experience the flaky, buttery goodness of a traditional French pastry infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of apples.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 1 medium apple)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and eggs. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and mix until a dough forms.
4. Fold in diced apples and cinnamon.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place shapes on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each pastry.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory Cheese Kouign-Amann
Elevate your snack game with this buttery, cheesy twist on the classic French pastry. Flaky, savory goodness awaits!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and pepper. Add warm milk and mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Roll out dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., rectangles or triangles).
4. Place cheese mixture (butter, Parmesan, cheddar) in the center of each piece. Fold and press edges to seal.
5. Brush tops with remaining butter. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Kouign-Amann
This recipe combines the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the flaky, buttery layers of a traditional kouign-amann pastry. The result is a sweet and savory treat perfect for fall gatherings or as a unique dessert for your Thanksgiving table.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until a smooth dough forms.
6. Roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Almond-Crusted Kouign-Amann
This recipe combines the flaky, buttery goodness of kouign-amann with the crunch and nutty flavor of almonds. Perfect for a special treat or brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add yeast and warm milk; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. Sprinkle almonds evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border.
7. Fold the edges of the dough up over the almonds, pressing gently to seal.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Kouign-Amann
This Japanese-French fusion pastry combines the bright, grassy flavor of matcha green tea with the flaky, buttery goodness of a traditional kouign-amann. The result is a unique and delicious dessert perfect for adventurous eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup matcha powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, matcha powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until a crumbly mixture forms.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shape (e.g., rectangle, circle).
6. Fold edges of dough inward to create a crust, then place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Raspberry Jam-Filled Kouign-Amann
This recipe combines the flaky layers of a traditional kouign-amann with the sweet and tangy flavor of raspberry jam. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack, these pastry puffs are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup raspberry jam
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add melted butter and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Spread raspberry jam evenly over the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
5. Fold the edges of the dough over the jam to form a triangle or rectangle shape.
6. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until puffed and golden.
Caramelized Banana Kouign-Amann
This recipe combines the flaky, buttery goodness of a traditional kouign-amann with the sweet, caramelized flavor of bananas. The result is a unique and delicious pastry that’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 1 tablespoon caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add melted butter and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Fold in sliced bananas and caramel sauce.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes and place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Zest Kouign-Amann
This French-inspired pastry combines the sweetness of buttery dough with the brightness of lemon zest, creating a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine butter and sugar. Beat until light and fluffy.
3. Add yeast and mix until dissolved. Gradually add flour, salt, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Fold in lemon juice, zest, and beaten egg.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or triangles).
6. Brush tops with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Pecan Kouign-Amann
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this decadent Maple Pecan Kouign-Amann, featuring the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, lukewarm
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add yeast and lukewarm milk; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then let it rest for 1 hour in a warm place.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3mm). Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place the kouign-amann on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each pastry.
7. Drizzle with melted butter, sprinkle with pecans and maple syrup.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blueberry Swirl Kouign-Amann
This recipe combines the flaky, buttery goodness of kouign-amann with the sweet and tangy flavor of blueberries. Perfect for a breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until coarse crumbs form.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Mix granulated sugar and blueberries in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
6. Fold dough over filling to create a swirl pattern. Brush edges with beaten egg and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vanilla Bean Kouign-Amann
This recipe combines the flaky layers of croissant dough with the sweetness of vanilla bean and a hint of caramelized sugar. The result is a buttery, tender pastry that’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, melted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Proof the dough at room temperature for 1 hour, or until puffed and lightly golden.
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Lavender Kouign-Amann
This recipe combines the classic buttery pastry of kouign-amann with the floral sweetness of honey and lavender, creating a unique and intriguing dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds
– 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Fold in honey and lavender buds.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or triangles).
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pistachio Rosewater Kouign-Amann
This elegant pastry combines the buttery, flaky goodness of kouign-amann with the subtle flavors of pistachio and rosewater. The perfect treat for special occasions or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon pistachio puree
– 1/2 teaspoon rosewater
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Brush with milk and sprinkle with pistachio puree and rosewater.
6. Fold dough into thirds, then roll out to desired thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dark Chocolate Ganache Kouign-Amann
This French-inspired pastry combines the buttery, flaky layers of a kouign-amann with the rich, velvety texture of dark chocolate ganache. Perfect for special occasions or as a treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add flour and salt; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
5. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each pastry.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow pastries to cool completely before filling with dark chocolate ganache.
Ganache:
1. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
2. Stir in heavy cream (optional).
3. Pour ganache over cooled pastries and refrigerate until set.
Orange Blossom Kouign-Amann
This French-inspired pastry combines the flaky layers of a croissant with the sweetness of orange blossom water, creating a delightful and aromatic treat perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm milk, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add melted butter and orange blossom water; mix until smooth and elastic.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, then rest for 1 hour.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/2 inch (1 cm).
6. Cut into triangles or shapes as desired.
7. Let rise for an additional 30-45 minutes.
8. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pear and Cardamom Kouign-Amann
This French-inspired pastry combines the sweetness of pears with the warmth of cardamom, creating a unique and delightful dessert. With its flaky layers and caramelized edges, this Pear and Cardamom Kouign-Amann is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled and diced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Fold in diced pears and ground cardamom.
5. Roll out dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
6. Cut into desired shapes and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Brush with beaten egg and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Strawberry Rhubarb Kouign-Amann
This recipe combines the flaky, buttery goodness of a kouign-amann with the sweet and tart flavors of strawberry rhubarb. The result is a delightful pastry that’s perfect for springtime or anytime you want to add a touch of sweetness and whimsy to your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/2 cup rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Fold in half lengthwise, then roll out again to the same thickness.
4. Spoon the strawberry-rhubarb mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges to seal. Cut into wedges and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Coconut Lime Kouign-Amann
This recipe combines the flaky, buttery goodness of kouign-amann with the bright, citrusy flavor of coconut and lime. The result is a sweet and tangy pastry that’s perfect for brunch or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until dough forms.
4. Fold in shredded coconut and lime juice.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch (6mm) thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Indulge your sweet tooth with these 20 mouthwatering kouign-amann recipes! From classic Breton flavors to innovative twists, this article takes you on a culinary journey around the world. Discover how to make everything from chocolate-filled and apple cinnamon to savory cheese and pumpkin spice versions of this beloved pastry. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, these unique and delicious recipes are sure to inspire your next baking adventure.
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