French patisserie is renowned for its exquisite pastries, delicate flavors, and intricate presentation. When it comes to desserts, France is a country that takes its sweet treats very seriously. From classic crème brûlée to decadent chocolate soufflé, the options are endless. In this article, we’ll delve into 18 of the most irresistible French dessert recipes that will satisfy your cravings and transport you to the charming streets of Paris.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a culinary newbie, these indulgent treats are sure to impress. With a mix of classic and modern flavors, textures, and presentation styles, there’s something for everyone. So, get ready to indulge in the sweet life with our collection of French dessert recipes that will leave you weak in the knees.
Classic Crème Brûlée
A rich and creamy dessert that’s perfect for special occasions, classic crème brûlée is a timeless treat that combines velvety custard with a caramelized sugar crust.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and salt.
3. Add heavy cream and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into 6 (1-cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Place ramekins in a large baking dish; add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven; let cool to room temperature.
8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
9. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over the top of each ramekin.
10. Caramelize with a kitchen torch or under broiler.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Soufflé
Elevate your dessert game with this classic French recipe that yields a heavenly, puffed chocolate soufflé.
Ingredients:
– 3 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), broken into small pieces
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 1-quart soufflé dish and coat with granulated sugar.
2. Melt chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract. Add flour and salt; whisk until combined.
4. Pour melted chocolate into the egg yolk mixture; whisk until smooth.
5. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold gently into the chocolate mixture until no white streaks remain.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared soufflé dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tarte Tatin
A classic French dessert, Tarte Tatin is a caramelized apple tart that’s both elegant and effortless to make. This recipe yields a beautifully golden-brown tarte with tender apples and a crispy pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 Golden Delicious apples, peeled and halved
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sugar and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. Arrange apple halves in the skillet, cut side up. Cook for 5 minutes or until they start to soften.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3mm). Place over apples, tucking edges under the fruit.
5. Brush egg wash over pastry and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Profiteroles with Vanilla Ice Cream
Experience the classic French dessert that combines crispy profiteroles (cream puffs) with creamy vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
– Vanilla ice cream for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine flour and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture forms a ball and pulls away from sides (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter, salt, and egg.
4. Pour the dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
5. Pipe small balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving with scoops of vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Macarons with Raspberry Filling
These delicate French meringue-based cookies are filled with a sweet and tangy raspberry filling, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the macaron shells:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Food coloring (optional)
For the raspberry filling:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together almond flour and powdered sugar.
3. In a separate large bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form.
4. Gradually add granulated sugar to the egg whites while whipping.
5. Add food coloring (if using) and mix well.
6. Sift the almond flour mixture over the egg mixture and gently fold until combined.
7. Transfer batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip.
8. Pipe small, round circles onto prepared baking sheet.
9. Tap the baking sheet gently to remove air bubbles.
10. Let shells sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour before baking.
11. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until firm and lightly golden.
12. Allow shells to cool completely.
Raspberry Filling:
1. Purée raspberries with granulated sugar in a blender until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds.
Assembly:
1. Sandwich a small dollop of raspberry filling between two cooled macaron shells.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clafoutis with Fresh Cherries
Discover the quintessential French dessert that’s perfect for warm weather – a delicious clafoutis made with fresh cherries. This simple and impressive dessert is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9-inch square baking dish.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the cherries.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Paris-Brest with Praline Cream
Experience the rich flavors of France with this iconic Paris-Brest cake, paired with a decadent praline cream. This show-stopping dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the praline cream:
– 1 cup (200g) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon praline syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) ring mold.
2. Whisk together cake ingredients until smooth. Pour into prepared mold and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Allow the cake to cool completely.
4. Whip heavy cream, sugar, praline syrup, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
5. Assemble the Paris-Brest by spreading a layer of praline cream on top of the cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (cake) + 10-15 minutes (cream preparation)
Mille-Feuille with Pastry Cream
Mille-Feuille, also known as Napoleon, is a classic French pastry that consists of layers of puff pastry, pastry cream, and fruit preserves. This recipe provides a simple guide to making this beloved dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– Fresh fruit preserves or jam for assembly
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry and cut into long rectangles.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, milk, egg yolks, and salt until smooth. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
3. Assemble the Mille-Feuille by layering puff pastry, pastry cream, and fruit preserves.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Madeleines with Lemon Zest
Delight in the sweet and tangy combination of lemon zest and traditional French madeleines. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a springtime gathering or afternoon tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a madeleine pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add the lemon zest and flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into the prepared madeleine pan and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crêpes Suzette with Orange Sauce
A classic French dessert that combines delicate crêpes with a tangy and sweet orange sauce, perfect for impressing your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Orange Sauce ingredients (see below)
– Freshly grated orange zest, for garnish
Crêpes:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt.
2. Add the melted butter and whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the pan and tilt to evenly coat the bottom.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to curl.
6. Loosen with a spatula and flip.
Orange Sauce:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
Combine all sauce ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Bring to a simmer, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Assembly:
Place a cooked crêpe on a serving plate. Spoon some Orange Sauce over the top and garnish with freshly grated orange zest. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes for the crêpes, plus an additional 5-7 minutes for the Orange Sauce.
Pots de Crème au Chocolat
Rich and creamy chocolate pots perfect for a decadent dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and add in the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, allowing the chocolate to melt.
3. Stir the mixture gently until the chocolate is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
4. Add in the unsalted butter and stir until melted.
5. Pour the Pots de Crème au Chocolat into small individual serving cups or ramekins.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the mixture to set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Note: You can garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.
Financiers with Almond Flour
These delicate, golden cakes are a classic French dessert, perfect for a sweet treat or elegant presentation. Made with almond flour and butter, they have a rich, nutty flavor and tender crumb.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Canelés de Bordeaux
Canelés de Bordeaux are traditional French cakes that originated from the city of Bordeaux. These small, delicate pastries have a crispy, caramelized exterior and a soft, chewy interior.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter a cannelé mold or mini muffin tin.
2. In a small bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, water, and yeast.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until smooth.
5. Stir in melted butter.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared mold or tin.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Galette des Rois with Almond Frangipane
A classic French dessert, Galette des Rois is a flaky pastry filled with the sweet and nutty flavors of almond frangipane. This recipe yields a delicious and elegant cake perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) ground almonds
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3mm).
3. In a small bowl, mix together confectioners’ sugar, ground almonds, and heavy cream until smooth.
4. Spread the frangipane mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch (2.5cm) border around edges.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a square or rectangle shape.
6. Brush the pastry with beaten egg and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pain Perdu with Caramelized Bananas
Pain perdu is a classic French dessert that combines the richness of bread pudding with the natural sweetness of caramelized bananas. This recipe adds a twist to the traditional version, resulting in a decadent and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a skillet, caramelize bananas in butter and sugars over medium heat until golden brown.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Add bread cubes to the wet ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with caramelized bananas.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Serve warm, dusting with powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Floating Island with Crème Anglaise
Create a show-stopping dessert that will impress your guests with this classic French recipe. A light and airy meringue “island” floats on a sea of rich crème anglaise, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). In a clean bowl, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Spoon the meringue mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, forming a rough shape.
3. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until dry and crisp.
4. Meanwhile, combine milk, butter, and vanilla extract in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add warm milk mixture, whisking constantly.
6. Return the saucepan to low heat and cook for 10 minutes or until thickened.
7. To assemble, place a meringue “island” on a serving plate and spoon crème anglaise around it.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Chocolate Éclairs with Chantilly Cream
Elevate your pastry game with these decadent chocolate éclairs filled with a light and airy chantilly cream.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Chocolate glaze (recipe below)
• Chantilly cream (recipe below)
Chocolate Éclair Filling:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, egg yolks, and melted butter.
3. Whisk until smooth, then add confectioners’ sugar and salt.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens like custard (about 10 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until melted.
Chantilly Cream:
1. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
2. Gradually add granulated sugar and vanilla extract.
3. Continue whipping until smooth and creamy (about 5 minutes).
Assembly and Baking:
• Pipe éclair dough into desired shapes on parchment-lined baking sheets.
• Top with chocolate glaze, then fill with chantilly cream.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Pear and Almond Tart
This elegant tart combines the sweetness of pears with the nutty flavor of almonds, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Arrange pear slices on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border. Sprinkle with sugar and almonds.
4. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush with melted butter and drizzle with honey.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich culinary heritage of France with these 18 decadent dessert recipes. From classic Crème Brûlée to innovative Pear and Almond Tart, discover a world of creamy custards, light-as-air soufflés, and flaky pastry delights. This collection of French patisserie masterpieces is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more.
