Dessert

Apple Croissant Dessert with Caramelized Apples, Ice Cream, and Gruyère Recipe

ByMaya Arden January 9, 2026January 9, 2026

Introduction

This Apple Croissant recipe transforms simple ingredients into a warm, comforting dessert with a caramelized apple filling and a golden, flaky croissant crust. Paired with a rich cream sauce and a hint of Gruyère, it’s a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.

A dessert with multiple layers of cooked apple slices arranged in a circular pattern with golden brown and slightly orange hues, creating a shiny, caramelized texture. On top is a white, round scoop of soft ice cream or whipped cream covered with finely grated white cheese or coconut flakes, adding a delicate, fluffy texture. The dish is served on a white plate with blue floral patterns, with a silver spoon resting beside it. The background is a white marbled surface with parts of a red apple and another object blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 apples (Pink Cripps recommended)
1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup white sugar
2 pinches of salt

1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 croissant (or 2 large day-old croissants)

1/3 cup heavy cream (plus 1 tbsp)
3 tbsp unsalted butter
Ice cream (to taste)

Gruyère cheese (to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Thinly slice the apples and place them in a bowl with 3 tablespoons of brown sugar, 3 tablespoons of white sugar, 2 pinches of salt, and the cinnamon. Mix well to combine.
Step 2: Preheat a pan on high heat for 2 minutes. Add 1.5 tablespoons of butter and the apple mixture to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are slightly caramelized, about 7 minutes.

Step 3: Using a rolling pin, flatten the croissant(s) gently to make them thinner and more flexible for topping.
Step 4: Place the caramelized apples in a baking dish, then top with the flattened croissant. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the croissant turns golden brown. Let it cool for about 10 minutes, flipping carefully to avoid sticking.
Step 5: In a saucepan, combine the remaining sugar and 1/3 cup heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then simmer on medium heat for 4-5 minutes while stirring frequently until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in a pinch of salt and the remaining butter until smooth.

Step 6: To serve, invert the baked apple croissant onto a plate. Add a scoop of ice cream and sprinkle Gruyère cheese on top. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor combination.

Tips & Variations

Use day-old croissants for a better texture that crisps nicely when baked.
Swap Gruyère for a milder cheese like Fontina if preferred.

Add a splash of vanilla extract to the apple mixture for extra aroma.
Serve with cinnamon ice cream for a complementary spice note.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to maintain crispness. Adding fresh ice cream before serving will restore the creamy contrast.