When enjoying a meal, we often indulge in the taste and flavours. Seldom do the origins and stories of food come to mind, but did you know that each cuisine possesses its own unique background and culture? Just like people from all walks of life, different types of food are also interwoven with their own personal tales and journeys that distinguish and set them apart. The croissant is one such pastry with a rich history and heritage. In this article, we explore five interesting facts about croissants!
Learn more: Tips For Baking Flaky & Buttery Croissants, According To Délifrance's Chefs
Developed in the Early 20th Century
A beloved staple of French pastry, the croissant traces its origins to the early 20th century when innovative French bakers revolutionised the traditional Austrian kipferl. Prior to this transformation, the kipferl was made with a rich brioche dough. However, French bakers sought to create a lighter, flakier pastry. To achieve this, the brioche dough was replaced with a yeast-leavened laminated dough, which involved layering butter between thin sheets of dough. Through meticulous folding and rolling, this technique created countless delicate layers that puffed up during baking, resulting in the signature airy texture and buttery flavour of the modern croissant.
Reserved for the Wealthy
In its earliest incarnation as a kipferl-like pastry, the croissant was indeed a luxury reserved for the wealthy elite due to the exorbitant cost of its ingredients, particularly eggs and butter. The scarcity and expense of ingredients meant that only the affluent could afford to experience its rich taste and texture. Over time, as baking techniques evolved and ingredient costs fluctuated, the croissant underwent several transformations, eventually becoming more accessible to a broader range of consumers. For instance, croissants have become a staple, commonly found in pastry boxes worldwide! Nonetheless, its association with opulence and indulgence remains ingrained in its history, adding to the allure and prestige of this revered pastry.
Originated from Vienna
The French term "Viennoiserie" encompasses a delectable array of pastries, including the iconic croissant, and pays homage to their roots in Vienna, Austria. Viennese bakers were renowned for their expertise in creating exquisite pastries, which eventually made their way to France. The croissant, with its delicate layers and buttery flavour, quickly became a staple of French bakeries and breakfast tables. Despite its Austrian origins, this pastry became synonymous with French culinary culture, symbolising elegance and indulgence. Today, Viennoiseries like croissants, pain au chocolat, and brioche delight palates worldwide, served in various iterations such as pastry boxes, reflecting the rich and diverse heritage of European pastry craftsmanship.
A National French Product Since 1920
The designation of the croissant as a French national product in 1920 marked a pivotal moment in its history. This official recognition acknowledged the integral role the croissant played in French culture and cuisine, cementing its status as a cherished culinary treasure. Since then, the croissant has associated itself with France, adorning breakfast tables, patisseries, and cafés across the country and beyond. Its flaky layers, buttery taste, and distinctive crescent shape have made it an enduring favourite among locals and tourists alike, serving as a proud representation of French culinary excellence and tradition.
National Croissant Day
While many might not be aware, January 30th commemorates National Croissant Day, a delightful occasion dedicated to honouring and savouring the delectable croissant! This pastry holiday provides an opportunity for people around the world to indulge in the buttery, flaky goodness of croissants while appreciating their cultural significance. Below are some interesting ways to enjoy croissants:
Croissant French Toast
If you think only bread can be used for French toast, think again! This luxurious twist on the classic breakfast favourite infuses traditional French toast with its buttery richness of croissants. Simply prepare them the way you would a conventional French toast, swapping the bread for croissants instead!
Croissant Bread Pudding
Not sure what to do with leftover croissants? Use them in croissant bread pudding! The croissants are great for absorbing the custard, resulting in a soft, creamy interior with a golden crispy top. Customise this dessert with additional ingredients like chocolate chips, dried fruits or nuts for extra texture and flavour!
Croissant Ice Cream Sandwich
While the old-school, nostalgic ice cream bread remains a popular dessert in Singapore, you can take it up a notch by switching out the bread for a croissant. With its impeccable and intricate flavour profile and texture, the croissant offers a delightful contrast to plain bread when paired with the sweetness and creaminess of ice cream.
For maximum convenience, order pastry box delivery in Singapore and have delicious croissants arrive conveniently right at your doorstep!
Beyond mere aesthetics, taste and flavour, the true allure of food lies in its rich tapestry of origins woven into each bite. So the next time you savour a croissant, immerse yourself in its cultural heritage and elevate your dining experience to new heights.
At Délifrance, we understand the difference a quality, freshly-prepared pastry can make, which is why we pride ourselves on delivering nothing less than delectable and appetising pastry boxes that include croissants as well! Order yours today.
