Cinnamon Raisin Croissant Joy

Name: Cinnamon Raisin Croissant Joy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 packet (2 teaspoons) active dry yeast; 1/2 cup warm milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup raisins; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1 egg (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore the delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors that this Cinnamon Raisin Croissant Joy brings to my breakfast table. The warm, flaky croissants filled with gooey cinnamon and plump raisins are simply irresistible. Each bite is a treat that brightens even the dullest mornings. With just a few essential ingredients and simple steps, I can create these tender pastries that make my kitchen smell heavenly. They’re perfect for sharing with family or enjoying alone with a cup of coffee!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-23T22:37:27.979Z

When I first tried making croissants at home, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple they are to create, especially with filling like cinnamon and raisins. The process, while seemingly intricate, becomes an enjoyable experience of folding and rolling the dough. One little trick I learned is to let the dough rest for a few minutes between folds, which helps to develop those crispy layers.

What makes these croissants truly special is the use of high-quality butter and cinnamon. The rich flavor infuses the croissants beautifully, while the raisins provide a delightful sweetness. I love enjoying them fresh out of the oven, and they often disappear faster than I can bake them!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Flaky, tender pastry that melts in your mouth
Warm cinnamon aroma wafting through your kitchen
Deliciously sweet bites with juicy raisins
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or brunch gatherings

      

Understanding the Dough

The dough for these croissants is the foundation of their flaky texture. The combination of all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt provides the structure and flavor, while the yeast activates with warm milk to give the dough its rise. It's crucial to let the yeast bloom for about 5 minutes until it's foamy, indicating that it’s active and ready to help your croissants achieve that perfect lift.

When mixing the dough, be careful not to over-knead. You want a smooth consistency without too much elasticity, which can lead to tough pastries. If you find your dough is too sticky, a light dusting of flour will help, but avoid adding too much, as this can affect the texture and rise.

Creating Layers for Flakiness

The magic of croissants lies in the layering process. When rolling out the dough after adding the cinnamon and raisins, aim for a uniform thickness of about 1/4 inch. Folding and rolling the dough creates those delightful layers that will ultimately turn golden and flaky in the oven. If you notice any cracks while rolling, simply patch them with your fingers and keep going; this will help maintain the layers.

As you cut the triangles to shape the croissants, don’t hesitate to experiment with the size. Larger triangles can yield bigger croissants, which can be fantastic for brunch, while smaller ones are perfect for snacks. Just ensure to maintain an even thickness and to roll them tightly to avoid unrolling during baking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

For the Croissants

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 packet (2 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup raisins
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 egg (for egg wash)

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Cinnamon Raisin Croissant Joy:

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix warm milk and yeast; let it sit for 5 minutes. In another bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and softened butter to the dry ingredients, kneading until smooth.

Cover and let rise in a warm area for 10 minutes.

Roll and Add Filling

On a floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle. Sprinkle with cinnamon, sugar, and raisins, then fold the dough over and roll out again to form layers.

Shape Croissants

Cut the dough into triangles and roll each piece from the wide end to the tip. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

Brush the croissants with egg wash. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Your cinnamon raisin croissants are now ready to enjoy! Serve warm and savor every bite.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the filling. Let the croissants cool for a few minutes before serving to ensure the perfect flaky texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These croissants are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can be prepared ahead of time. Once shaped, you can freeze them right on the baking sheet before the second rise. After they've frozen solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, simply let them thaw and rise on the counter for 1-2 hours before baking as usual.

To store leftover croissants, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerating can make them dry out, so I recommend freezing if you won’t eat them immediately. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes to bring back some of that original flakiness.

Variations and Flavor Swaps

While cinnamon and raisins create a classic flavor pairing, feel free to customize your croissants! Try adding chopped apples or nuts for a different twist. If you prefer a chocolate version, simply replace the cinnamon with cocoa powder and add chocolate chips in place of the raisins for a decadently sweet alternative.

For a more traditional French flair, consider brushing the croissants with a light honey glaze after baking. Mixing honey with a bit of water and warming until combined creates a beautiful, shiny finish that enhances the sweet flavor without overpowering the cinnamon.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for a healthier option.

→ How can I make these ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it in the fridge overnight before shaping and baking.

→ What can I use instead of raisins?

You can substitute raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.