A Simple Hack For Transforming Trader Joe's Frozen Chocolate Croissants Into Sweet Rolls
Trader Joe's frozen aisle is probably the last place you would think of when you've got a sweet tooth. Amongst all those bags of frozen vegetables and instant dumplings, what are the chances you could get a dessert that actually satisfies the cravings? Grab a box of frozen chocolate croissants, and your odds will be much higher. Arguably one of the best in Trader Joe's baked goods line-up, this pastry goes beyond what it's originally made for. Add a few extra steps to the preparation process, and you will have a pan of sweet rolls in your hand.
Don't let the "frozen" label or the affordable price fool you. Trader Joe's chocolate croissants might just be good enough to rival fresh ones from the bakery. Chocolatey, buttery, flaky on the outside, and utterly tender within, they check all the right boxes. And the best part? Turning the croissants into sweet rolls is a breeze. You just need to thaw them, cut them into bite-sized pieces, and let them proof.
Often, proofing the dough for at least nine hours is a crucial step you shouldn't skip before baking Trader Joe's chocolate croissants, and this still applies here. Left in a butter-greased baking dish overnight, the croissants will rise to their full, fluffy, tender potential. Finally, just bake according to the package's instructions, and they should be ready in no time.
Make the store-bought treats your own with a few additions
An easy way to give your Trader Joe's croissant that glossy, bakery-fresh sheen and golden hue is by brushing them with an egg wash. Moreover, there are quite a few toppings to add to your croissants that you can try out with this sweet roll twist. A sprinkle of powdered sugar is obviously a no-brainer, as well as cinnamon, nutmeg, and other warm spices. Try chopped nuts or dried fruits for fun little crunches, and if you want even more flavor richness,
Moreover, Nutella, peanut butter, melted chocolate, or caramel sauce always hits the spot. Sweet roll toppings are, of course, always an option. With a little bit more time, consider whipping up a creamy frosting or glaze, or just use mascarpone to be quick. Perhaps try crumbled cookies for subtle bits of sugary sweetness as well.
Furthermore, you can mix and match the chocolate croissants with other varieties that Trader Joe's offers. Bring in its double chocolate croissants, should you ever want even more of that chocolatey sweetness, this time enhanced by extra cocoa powder. Almond croissants, on the other hand, are creamy lights to the chocolate's dark depths, so each bite is a blend of contrasting flavors, and that's the intriguing fun you don't usually expect with sweet rolls.