List of French pastries

List of French pastries

This is a comprehensive list of French pastries, which are known for their exquisite taste and delicate textures. French pastries are a significant part of French culinary culture and are enjoyed both in France and around the world. Below is a compilation of some of the most popular and traditional French pastries.

Croissant

A freshly baked croissant

The croissant is a classic French pastry that is loved for its flaky and buttery texture. It is made from a laminated dough, which is layered with butter and then rolled and folded multiple times to create its distinct crescent shape. Croissants are typically enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, and can be filled with various sweet or savory fillings.

Éclair

An assortment of éclairs

Éclairs are long, finger-shaped pastries that are filled with cream and topped with a glossy icing. The dough used for éclairs is called choux pastry, which is light and airy. The filling can vary, with popular options including vanilla, chocolate, coffee, or fruit-flavored creams. Éclairs are often decorated with chocolate ganache or fondant icing.

Macaron

A colorful assortment of macarons

Macarons are delicate and colorful French pastries that consist of two almond meringue cookies sandwiched together with a creamy filling. The cookies have a crisp exterior and a soft, chewy interior. Macarons come in a wide range of flavors, such as raspberry, pistachio, chocolate, and lemon. They are often enjoyed as a sweet treat or given as gifts.

Pain au Chocolat

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A freshly baked pain au chocolat

Pain au chocolat, also known as chocolate croissant, is a popular French pastry that is made with the same laminated dough as croissants. However, instead of being plain, pain au chocolat is filled with a bar of chocolate before being baked. The result is a warm and gooey pastry with a rich chocolate center.

Tarte Tatin

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A slice of tarte Tatin with caramelized apples

Tarte Tatin is a classic French upside-down caramelized apple tart. It is made by caramelizing apples in butter and sugar, then topping them with a layer of pastry dough. The tart is baked until the apples are tender and the pastry is golden brown. Tarte Tatin is typically served warm and can be enjoyed on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Palmier

A plate of palmiers

Palmiers, also known as elephant ears or palm leaves, are sweet and crispy French pastries. They are made by rolling puff pastry in sugar, then folding and slicing it to create a palm leaf shape. Palmiers are baked until they become golden and caramelized. They are often enjoyed as a light and crunchy snack.

Madeleine

A plate of madeleines

Madeleines are small, shell-shaped sponge cakes that have a soft and buttery texture. They are typically flavored with lemon zest and vanilla, giving them a delicate and fragrant taste. Madeleines are often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee and are a popular treat in France.

Pâte à Choux

Choux pastry piped into profiteroles

Pâte à Choux, also known as choux pastry, is a versatile dough used to make various French pastries. It is made by cooking flour, butter, water, and eggs together to create a smooth and elastic dough. Choux pastry can be shaped into profiteroles, éclairs, or beignets, and can be filled with creams, custards, or ice cream.

See also

• French cuisine
• List of French desserts
• List of pastries