11 French-Inspired Fall Pastries for Brunches

11 French-Inspired Fall Pastries for Brunches

Classic French Croissants

flaky buttery crescent pastry

Croissants are a quintessential French pastry known for their flaky, buttery layers and crescent shape. This delightful pastry is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy fall treat paired with a warm beverage. Making croissants requires some time and patience, but the result is absolutely worth every effort.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 4 cups
Salt 1 teaspoon
Sugar 2 tablespoons
Active dry yeast 2 teaspoons
Warm milk 1 cup (110°F)
Unsalted butter 1 1/4 cups (cold)
Cold water 1/2 cup
Egg (for egg wash) 1

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast; let it sit until frothy (about 5-10 minutes).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt, then add the yeast mixture and cold water; mix until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, until doubled in size.
  4. Roll out the dough into a rectangle and layer the cold butter in the center. Fold the dough over the butter and roll out again to create layers.
  5. Fold the dough into thirds (like a letter), refrigerate for 30 minutes; repeat rolling and folding two more times.
  6. Roll out the final dough and cut into triangles, then roll each triangle from the base to the tip to form a croissant shape.
  7. Allow croissants to rise on a baking sheet for about 1 hour. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  8. Brush the croissants with a beaten egg and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Enjoy warm!
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Pumpkin Spice Pâté Sucrée

pumpkin spice pastry crust

Pumpkin Spice Pâté Sucrée is a delightful sweet pastry crust that incorporates the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin spice, making it perfect for fall baking. This versatile pastry can be used for tarts, pies, or any dessert that calls for a rich, buttery shell. The subtle sweetness and spice add a cozy touch, making it an ideal base for seasonal fillings.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 1/2 cups
Powdered sugar 1/2 cup
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Unsalted butter (cold) 1 cup (2 sticks)
Egg yolk 1
Heavy cream 1/4 cup
Pumpkin pie spice 1 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
  2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and heavy cream, then add it to the flour mixture; mix until a dough forms.
  4. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  5. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit your tart or pie pan, then trim the edges.
  6. Pre-bake as needed for your particular recipe or fill with desired filling and bake according to the filling instructions. Enjoy!
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Apple Galette

rustic apple pastry delight

An Apple Galette is a rustic, open-faced pastry that’s perfect for showcasing the sweet and tart flavors of fall apples. With its flaky crust and warm spiced filling, it’s an easy yet elegant dessert that can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This simple French pastry is a delightful way to celebrate the harvest season.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Unsalted butter (cold) 1/2 cup
Ice water 4-5 tablespoons
Apples (peeled, cored, sliced) 3-4 medium
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Egg (beaten, for wash) 1
Coarse sugar (for sprinkling) 1 tablespoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, 1/4 cup sugar, and salt.
  2. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Gradually add ice water, mixing until a dough forms; shape into a disc and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  4. In another bowl, toss the apple slices with cinnamon and lemon juice; set aside.
  5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rough circle.
  6. Transfer the dough to a baking sheet and arrange the apple mixture in the center, leaving a border around the edges.
  7. Fold the edges of the dough over the apples, brush with beaten egg, and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
  8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown. Serve warm and enjoy!
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Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Rolls

indulgent chocolate hazelnut rolls

Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Rolls are an indulgent pastry that combines flaky croissant dough with a rich filling of chocolate and toasted hazelnuts. These delightful rolls are perfect for a cozy fall breakfast or an afternoon treat with coffee. With their golden-brown exterior and gooey interior, they’re sure to impress family and friends.

Ingredients Quantity
Croissant dough 1 package (store-bought or homemade, usually 8-10 oz)
Chocolate hazelnut spread 1/2 cup
Toasted hazelnuts (chopped) 1/2 cup
Egg (beaten, for wash) 1
Coarse sugar (for sprinkling) 1 tablespoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out the croissant dough on a floured surface and cut it into triangles.
  3. Spread a tablespoon of chocolate hazelnut spread on each triangle and sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts.
  4. Roll the triangles starting from the wide end to the tip, shaping them into crescent rolls.
  5. Place the rolled croissants on the baking sheet, brush with beaten egg, and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious pastry!
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Tarte Tatin

caramelized apple pastry delight

Tarte Tatin is a classic French upside-down caramelized apple tart that brings the flavors of fall to your table. This delightful dessert features sweet apples cooked with butter and sugar, which are then baked beneath a layer of flaky pastry. The result is a beautifully caramelized treat that is perfect for sharing during chilly autumn evenings.

Ingredients Quantity
Apples (preferably Granny Smith) 6-8 medium (about 2-3 lbs)
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup (1 stick)
Granulated sugar 3/4 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Puff pastry (thawed) 1 sheet
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Salt A pinch

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Peel and core the apples, then cut them into halves or quarters and toss them with lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
  3. In a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan, melt the butter over medium heat and add the sugar, stirring until the mixture caramelizes and turns golden brown.
  4. Arrange the apples in the skillet, cut side up, and cook for about 10 minutes until they soften slightly.
  5. Remove from heat, drizzle with vanilla extract, and cover the apples with the puff pastry, tucking the edges down around the fruit.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
  7. Let it cool for a few minutes, then carefully invert onto a serving plate to reveal the caramelized apples. Serve warm and enjoy!
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Buttermilk Madeleines

delicate lemon vanilla cakes

Buttermilk Madeleines are delicate French sponge cakes known for their signature shell shape and light, airy texture. These delightful treats are flavored with vanilla and lemon, making them perfect for enjoying alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee during the cozy fall season.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 cup
Baking powder 1/2 teaspoon
Salt A pinch
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup (1 stick), melted and cooled
Granulated sugar 2/3 cup
Buttermilk 1/2 cup
Eggs 2 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Lemon zest 1 teaspoon
Powdered sugar For dusting

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a madeleine pan.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, mix melted butter and sugar until combined, then add eggs, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.
  4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
  5. Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine molds, filling each about 3/4 full.
  6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden and puffed.
  7. Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then transfer to a wire rack and dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy!
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Pear and Frangipane Tart

pear and almond tart

Pear and Frangipane Tart is a classic French dessert that beautifully combines the delicate flavors of ripe pears with a rich and creamy almond frangipane filling, all nestled in a buttery pastry crust. Perfect for fall, this tart is a wonderful way to showcase seasonal pears and is sure to impress your friends and family with its elegant presentation.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 1/4 cups
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup (1 stick), cold
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
Salt A pinch
Ice water 3-4 tablespoons
Pears (peeled, sliced) 2 medium
Almond flour 1 cup
Eggs 2 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Powdered sugar For dusting
Almonds (sliced, for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom by greasing it lightly.
  2. In a bowl, mix the flour, butter, sugar, and salt until crumbly. Gradually add ice water until the dough comes together.
  3. Roll out the dough and press it into the tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork and chill for 30 minutes.
  4. Blind bake the crust for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
  5. In a separate bowl, combine almond flour, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread the frangipane filling evenly over the tart crust.
  6. Arrange the sliced pears on top of the frangipane and optionally sprinkle sliced almonds.
  7. Bake for an additional 30-35 minutes or until the frangipane is set and lightly golden.
  8. Allow to cool slightly, dust with powdered sugar, and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
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Maple Pecan Éclairs

maple pecan cream clairs

Maple Pecan Éclairs are a delightful twist on the classic French pastry, combining the lightness of choux pastry with a rich maple and pecan-flavored cream filling. These elegant desserts are perfect for fall gatherings, offering a sweet and nutty flavor that captures the essence of the season. Topped with a glossy maple glaze and sprinkled with chopped pecans, they are sure to impress anyone who tries them!

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 cup
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup (1 stick)
Water 1/2 cup
Eggs 3 large
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Maple syrup 1/4 cup
Heavy cream 1 cup
Powdered sugar 1/3 cup
Chopped pecans 1/2 cup
Additional maple syrup (for glaze) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a saucepan, combine butter, water, and salt; bring to a boil. Stir in flour and cook until the mixture forms a ball.
  3. Remove from heat and add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until a smooth dough forms.
  4. Transfer the dough to a piping bag and pipe 4- to 5-inch strips onto the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden and puffed. Allow to cool completely.
  6. Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and maple syrup until soft peaks form. Fold in chopped pecans.
  7. Slice the cooled éclairs and fill with the pecan cream mixture.
  8. Drizzle with a simple maple syrup glaze and top with additional chopped pecans before serving. Enjoy!
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Cinnamon Brioche

fluffy cinnamon sugar brioche

Cinnamon Brioche is a soft and fluffy bread that exudes warmth and comfort, making it a perfect treat for fall. This enriched dough is spiraled with a buttery cinnamon-sugar filling and baked until golden brown, creating a fragrant addition to your autumnal gatherings. Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert alongside a warm beverage.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 4 cups
Instant yeast 2 1/4 teaspoons
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
Salt 1 teaspoon
Eggs 2 large
Milk 1 cup (warm)
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup (melted)
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Ground cinnamon 2 tablespoons
Additional butter (for brushing) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar; let sit until foamy (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt; make a well in the center and add eggs and yeast mixture.
  3. Mix until dough forms, then knead in melted butter until smooth (about 8-10 minutes).
  4. Let the dough rise in a covered bowl until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
  5. Roll the dough into a rectangle, spread with softened butter, and sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
  6. Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into rounds.
  7. Place the rounds in a greased baking dish and let rise again for 30 minutes.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden.
  9. Brush with additional melted butter before serving. Enjoy your Cinnamon Brioche!
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Caramelized Fig and Goat Cheese Tart

caramelized fig goat cheese tart

Caramelized Fig and Goat Cheese Tart is a sophisticated and delectable pastry that perfectly captures the essence of fall. The sweetness of caramelized figs combined with the creamy tang of goat cheese is nestled in a buttery tart shell, making it an ideal appetizer or dessert for autumn gatherings. This dish not only delights the palate but also presents beautifully, making it a showstopper on any table.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh figs 1 pound
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
Unsalted butter 1/4 cup (melted)
Goat cheese 8 ounces
Heavy cream 1/2 cup
Eggs 2 large
All-purpose flour 1 1/4 cups
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Thyme leaves (fresh) 1 tablespoon (optional)
Balsamic glaze (for drizzling) As needed

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a tart pan by greasing it lightly.
  2. Roll out the dough and fit it into the prepared tart pan; trim the edges and prick the bottom with a fork.
  3. Slice figs and toss them with granulated sugar; let them sit for about 10 minutes.
  4. Arrange the figs in the tart shell and top with a mixture of goat cheese, cream, eggs, salt, pepper, and thyme until well combined.
  5. Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden.
  6. Allow the tart to cool slightly before drizzling with balsamic glaze. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your Caramelized Fig and Goat Cheese Tart!

Chestnut Cream Puffs

chestnut cream puff recipe

Chestnut Cream Puffs are a delightful French pastry that perfectly encapsulates the cozy flavors of fall. These light and airy choux pastry puffs are filled with a luscious chestnut cream, offering a wonderful nutty sweetness that pairs beautifully with the crisp autumn air. They make for a charming addition to any fall gathering or dessert table.

Ingredients Quantity
Water 1 cup
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup
All-purpose flour 1 cup
Eggs 4 large
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Chestnut puree 1 cup
Heavy cream 1 cup
Confectioners’ sugar 1/4 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Cocoa powder (for dusting) As needed

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt; bring to a boil. Remove from heat and add flour, stirring until a ball forms.
  3. Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth and glossy.
  4. Pipe small mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
  5. Let the puffs cool; then whip the heavy cream with confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
  6. Fold in the chestnut puree, then fill each puff with the chestnut cream using a piping bag.
  7. Dust with cocoa powder before serving. Enjoy your Chestnut Cream Puffs!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.