Croissants — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 6, 2024
Nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 406 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 45 g | 16.36% |
| Fiber | 3 g | 10.71% |
| Sugars | 10 g | 20% |
| Glycemic Index | 67 | - |
| Protein | 8 g | 16% |
| Sodium | 500 mg | 21.74% |
| Total Fat | 21 | 26.92% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Key takeaways
Health benefits
- Provides quick energy from carbohydrates and fats, making them a good source of immediate fuel.
- Rich in flavor and texture, making them a satisfying treat that can contribute to emotional well-being.
- Contains some protein from ingredients like butter and eggs, which support muscle growth and repair.
- Can include essential vitamins and minerals if made with fortified flour, providing nutrients like B vitamins and iron.
Health risks
- High saturated fat content particularly in butter croissants, which can contribute to increased cholesterol levels and raise the risk of heart disease when consumed frequently.
- High calorie content which can contribute to weight gain if consumed frequently or in large portions, especially when paired with calorie-dense fillings or toppings.
- High carbohydrate content which can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, particularly concerning for diabetics or those on low-carb diets.
- Low nutrient density as croissants are typically made from refined white flour, offering few essential nutrients or fiber.
How to choose croissants
Croissants should have a golden-brown exterior with visible, flaky layers. They should feel light and airy, not dense or doughy. Break open a croissant to ensure it has a soft, well-aerated interior with a buttery aroma.
Avoid croissants that are pale and limp or have a greasy feel, which can indicate under-baking or poor-quality dough. Well-made croissants should have a crisp exterior that shatters slightly when bitten into.
How to store croissants
Croissants can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for 1-2 days. Store them in a cool, dry area to preserve their flaky texture. If you need to extend their shelf life, refrigeration allows them to last for 5-7 days.
Excess moisture can lead to sogginess and staleness. It's advisable to steer clear of the fridge for short-term storage, as it may compromise their quality. To regain their crispiness, simply reheat them in the oven when necessary.
✅ Extra Tip
How long do they last?
Croissants can last for 1-2 days at room temperature when stored in an airtight container. If refrigerated, they can last for 5-7 days. For longer storage, croissants can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover croissants can be used in a variety of delicious ways. Slice them and use them as a base for French toast, soaking them in a custard mixture and frying until golden. Croissants are also great when turned into a bread pudding, where their buttery layers add richness to the dish.
Use croissants to make a breakfast sandwich by filling them with eggs, cheese, and bacon or ham. If you have a lot of croissants, consider using them as a crust for a savory tart, pressing them into a pan and filling with eggs, vegetables, and cheese. Croissants can also be sliced and toasted, then topped with your favorite spreads or fillings for a quick snack. For a sweet treat, try turning croissants into croissant bread pudding with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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