I’ve always been a fan of flaky, buttery croissants, especially when paired with the rich decadence of chocolate. There’s something magical about the combination of crispy pastry layers and gooey, melted chocolate inside. So, when I discovered how simple it is to make chocolate croissants using an air fryer, I was hooked! This recipe has quickly become a go-to treat in my home—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.
If you’re looking for a way to impress guests or just treat yourself without spending hours in the kitchen, this Air Fryer Chocolate Croissants recipe is your answer. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely irresistible. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a regular in your kitchen too.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Puff Pastry Sheets: These are the foundation of your croissants. Make sure to use pre-made puff pastry sheets for convenience. They’re buttery and flaky, providing that perfect croissant texture without the hassle of making dough from scratch.
Chocolate Bars or Chips: For the filling, you can use semi-sweet chocolate chips or a high-quality chocolate bar broken into small pieces. The chocolate will melt into a rich and creamy center, so choose a variety you love.
Egg: You’ll need one egg for an egg wash. This gives the croissants a beautifully golden, glossy finish when cooked.
Optional Toppings: You can elevate your croissants with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate after they’re baked. This adds extra sweetness and a polished look.
Ingredients List
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: powdered sugar or melted chocolate for garnish
How to Make Air Fryer Chocolate Croissants
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out your thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, divide the sheet into 6 equal rectangles.
Step 2: Add the Chocolate Filling
Place a small handful (about 1 tablespoon) of chocolate chips or chopped chocolate near one end of each rectangle. Be sure to leave enough space around the edges to seal the pastry.
Step 3: Roll and Seal
Starting from the end with the chocolate, roll each rectangle tightly into a croissant shape. Pinch the edges and seams to seal them well so the chocolate doesn’t leak out during cooking.
Step 4: Apply the Egg Wash
Brush the beaten egg over the surface of each croissant. This step is essential for achieving a golden, glossy finish.
Step 5: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes. Place the croissants seam-side down in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they’re puffed and golden brown.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Let the croissants cool for a few minutes before serving. For an extra touch, dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Use Cold Puff Pastry: Keep the puff pastry as cold as possible while working with it. If it becomes too warm, it can become difficult to handle.
- Don’t Overfill: Adding too much chocolate can cause the filling to leak out while cooking. Stick to about 1 tablespoon per croissant.
- Seal the Edges Well: Make sure to pinch the edges tightly to prevent any chocolate from oozing out during the cooking process.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the croissants in batches if needed to ensure they cook evenly.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: This helps the croissants cook evenly and ensures a crisp, golden exterior.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate? Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of chocolate you prefer. Milk chocolate will result in a sweeter filling, while dark chocolate adds a richer, less sweet flavor.
Do I need to defrost the puff pastry before using it? Yes, thaw the puff pastry sheet in the refrigerator for a few hours or on the counter for about 30 minutes until it’s pliable but still cold.
Can I make these croissants ahead of time? You can assemble the croissants in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just brush on the egg wash right before air frying.
How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I freeze uncooked croissants? Yes, you can freeze the assembled croissants before baking. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Cook from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.