9 Best Classic French Pastries Anyone Can Make

1. Pain Au Chocolat

Pain au chocolat is a delightful baking project that rewards you with flaky, chocolate-filled croissants. While the process might seem time-consuming, much of it is hands-off, allowing you to enjoy other activities while the dough rises and rests.

2. Profiteroles

Profiteroles might sound fancy, but they are surprisingly simple to make. These little puffs of joy are essentially choux pastry filled with ice cream and topped with melted chocolate. The choux pastry is made by cooking flour with water and butter

3. French Macarons

French macarons are known for their delicate texture and beautiful appearance. These elegant cookies feature crisp, shiny shells with a soft, chewy center, sandwiching a rich filling. While macarons have a reputation

4. French Madeleines

Madeleines are petite, shell-shaped butter cakes that can be flavored in various ways. This recipe uses browned butter and almond extract to enhance the nuttiness, while orange zest adds a bright, citrusy note.

5. Financiers

Financiers are small, almond-flavored cakes that are light and airy, thanks to almond flour, browned butter, and egg whites. These nutty treats are perfect for bringing a taste of France into your home. The batter is quick to prepare

6. Apple Tart

A French apple tart typically features a layer of apple compote topped with beautifully arranged apple slices. This recipe simplifies the process by macerating the apple slices, which helps them become jammy

7. Fast(er) Homemade Croissants

Traditional croissants require a lengthy laminating process, but this recipe offers a quicker alternative. By using a pie crust technique of cutting cold butter into flour, you can achieve a similar flaky texture without the hours of rolling

8. Palmiers

Palmiers, also known as elephant ears, are made by sprinkling sugar over layers of puff pastry and rolling them into a heart shape. These crispy, caramelized cookies are incredibly easy to make and require just two ingredients

9. Tarte Tatin

Tarte Tatin is a classic French dessert that features caramelized fruit topped with puff pastry. The trickiest part of this recipe is making the caramel, but with patience and a steady hand, you'll achieve the perfect golden syrup.