Croissant Recipes Using Store Bought Dough

Name: Croissant Recipes Using Store Bought Dough
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 croissants
Ingredients: 1 package of store-bought croissant dough; 1 egg (for egg wash); 2 tablespoons of melted butter; Chocolate chips; Almond paste; Honey and chopped nuts; Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); Cooked ham or bacon; Spinach and feta cheese

Highlighted under: Whisked & Baked

I absolutely love experimenting with store-bought dough to create delightful croissants at home. There’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming pre-made dough into flaky, buttery pastries that seem like they came straight from a bakery. Whether it’s a sweet treat filled with chocolate or a savory option stuffed with cheese and herbs, these recipes are perfect for brunch or indulging yourself. Plus, the convenience of using purchased dough means I can whip up these croissants in no time, letting me focus on the delicious fillings and toppings instead!

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:07:15.963Z

When I first tried making croissants with store-bought dough, I was amazed by how simple it was. The dough is pliable, and with a little patience, you can roll, shape, and fill it as you wish. One of my favorite fillings is a mix of almond paste and sliced bananas, which creates a deliciously moist interior.

I also discovered that brushing the croissants with an egg wash before baking not only gives a shiny finish but helps them rise beautifully, creating layers that are light and airy. The result is a tray of perfect pastries that are always a hit at my house!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Convenience of store-bought dough saves time and effort
Versatile fillings allow for sweet and savory options
Flaky, buttery texture that rivals bakery croissants

      

A World of Fillings

One of the joys of using store-bought dough is the variety of fillings you can choose. Chocolate chips create a rich, gooey center that melts beautifully when baked, offering a delightful contrast to the flaky crust. If you're aiming for something a bit more sophisticated, consider almond paste, which adds a sweet, nutty flavor profile that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee. Don’t underestimate the versatility of honey and chopped nuts either; this combination provides a sweet crunch that can elevate your croissant to a new level of indulgence.

For those who prefer a savory outing, the possibilities are equally exciting. Shredded cheese can provide a gooey texture, especially when using varieties like mozzarella or cheddar; a hint of garlic powder added to the cheese mix can elevate the flavor. You can also fill your croissants with cooked ham or bacon, adding protein that makes them perfect for brunch or a hearty breakfast. Spinach and feta cheese bring a Mediterranean flair, and the balance of flavors really shines through every flaky bite.

Baking Perfection

To get that perfect golden crust, it's crucial to keep an eye on the baking time and temperature. Setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) allows for an even bake, but it's always wise to check your croissants around the 12-minute mark. Look for a deep golden color and puffed-up shapes, which indicate they’re ready. If you find the edges browning too quickly, consider rotating the baking sheet or lowering the temperature slightly.

Another tip for achieving that bakery-quality finish is the egg wash. This simple mixture of egg and water doesn't just add color; it also gives the croissants a beautiful shine. Be sure to brush it on generously but avoid pooling it in the center to prevent sogginess. If you're looking for an alternative, a milk wash can add a softer sheen while keeping them tender.

Ingredients

Basic Croissant Ingredients

1 package of store-bought croissant dough
1 egg (for egg wash)
2 tablespoons of melted butter

Sweet Filling Options

Chocolate chips
Almond paste
Honey and chopped nuts

Savory Filling Options

Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Cooked ham or bacon
Spinach and feta cheese

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Roll Out the Dough

Unroll the store-bought croissant dough and separate it into triangles as per the package instructions.

Add Filling

Place your desired filling at the wide end of each triangle and roll up tightly towards the point.

Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water. Brush the egg wash over each rolled croissant for a golden finish.

Bake

Place the croissants on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve

Let them cool slightly before serving warm, either plain or with a drizzle of honey.

Pro Tips

For an extra crispy texture, you can place a shallow pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have leftover croissants, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Simply wrap each croissant tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through and crispy.

For a make-ahead option, you can prepare the croissants up to the filling stage, then roll them and place on a baking sheet. Freeze the unbaked croissants and, when you’re ready to bake, brush with the egg wash while still frozen and pop them straight into the oven. This method typically requires an extra couple of minutes of baking time.

Scaling Up for a Crowd

This recipe can easily be scaled to accommodate larger gatherings. Simply double or triple the amount of store-bought croissant dough and fill them with a variety of sweet and savory options to cater to different tastes. It’s especially fun to set up a filling bar, allowing guests to customize their own croissants with their favorite fillings; think chocolate chips, ham, cheese, or a mix of both!

Preparing multiple baking sheets is a smart move if you're making a batch for a crowd. Just remember that baking in batches may require you to rotate the trays midway to ensure even browning. Also, using multiple ovens, if available, can save time and get those croissants out to the table faster!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze croissants made with store-bought dough?

Yes, you can freeze unbaked croissants. Just make sure to thaw them completely before baking.

→ How long do baked croissants last?

Baked croissants are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

→ What can I substitute for the egg wash?

If you prefer not to use egg, you can brush croissants with milk or a mixture of water and oil for a similar shine.

→ Do I need to let the dough rise before baking?

No, with store-bought dough, there’s no need for rising, just roll, fill, and bake!