Charcoal Activated Vegan Croissant Recipe Made Easy

Imagine biting into a perfectly flaky, buttery croissant that’s entirely vegan, with a striking black hue and a subtle earthy flavor from activated charcoal. This charcoal activated vegan croissant recipe brings together the elegance of French baking with the modern twist of superfood ingredients.

Whether you’re vegan, health-conscious, or just love experimenting in the kitchen, these croissants will impress both your taste buds and your guests. The activated charcoal not only adds a unique color but also offers detoxifying benefits, making your indulgence a little more guilt-free.

Making croissants from scratch can be intimidating, but this recipe breaks it down into manageable steps with clear instructions and ingredients you can easily find. Plus, the vegan alternatives to butter and milk ensure that everyone can enjoy these flaky delights.

Ready to turn your kitchen into a French bakery with a twist? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s completely vegan, using plant-based ingredients that closely mimic the traditional buttery texture of croissants.

Second, the addition of activated charcoal not only creates a beautiful, dramatic look but also adds a subtle earthiness that pairs wonderfully with sweet or savory fillings.

The dough is rich, flaky, and tender due to the careful layering of vegan butter, and the methodical folding process ensures those signature layers. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress at brunch or elevate a simple breakfast.

If you love baking and want to try something unique and health-conscious, this recipe is perfect for you.

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp activated charcoal powder (food grade)
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup (240ml) unsweetened almond milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C)
• ½ cup (115g) vegan butter, cold and cubed (plus extra for laminating)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Dough scraper or spatula
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter
• Pastry brush
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
• Pastry brush
• Oven

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm almond milk with the sugar and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, activated charcoal powder, and salt until evenly combined.
3. Make the dough: Add the yeast mixture, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook or mix by hand.
4. Knead the dough: Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it’s sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour, but avoid adding too much.
5. First rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Prepare the butter block: While the dough is rising, place the cold vegan butter between two sheets of parchment paper. Use a rolling pin to flatten it into a 7×7 inch square. Refrigerate until firm but pliable.
7. Roll out the dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it into a 10×10 inch square.
8. Incorporate the butter: Place the butter block diagonally in the center of the dough square. Fold each corner of the dough over the butter to create an envelope. Pinch the edges to seal.
9. Laminate the dough: Roll the dough envelope into a 10×20 inch rectangle. Fold it into thirds like a letter (fold the bottom third up, then the top third down). Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Repeat this rolling and folding process two more times, chilling 30 minutes between each fold. This creates the flaky layers.
10. Shape the croissants: After the final chilling, roll the dough out into a 10×20 inch rectangle. Cut the dough into triangles with a base of about 4 inches. Starting at the base, roll each triangle tightly toward the tip to form the croissant shape.
11. Second rise: Place the shaped croissants on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a towel and let them rise in a warm spot for 45-60 minutes until puffy.
12. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the croissants lightly with almond milk for a golden finish. Bake for 18-22 minutes until puffed and slightly crisp. Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even color.
13. Cool and serve: Remove the croissants from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

“Patience is key when laminating your dough. The longer and more consistent your folds and chills, the flakier your croissants will be!”

• Activated Charcoal: Use only food-grade activated charcoal powder. It adds color and a subtle flavor but don’t overdo it—1 tablespoon is enough for this batch.
• Butter Alternatives: For the best lamination, use a firm vegan butter with a high fat content to mimic traditional butter’s behavior.
• Filling Ideas: Add vegan chocolate chips or almond paste on the base of each triangle before rolling for a delicious surprise.
• Sweet Glaze: For an extra touch, brush the baked croissants with a simple maple syrup glaze while still warm.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to regain flakiness.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Charcoal activated vegan croissants are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm for breakfast with a spread of vegan butter and jam, or pair with a creamy almond milk latte for a cozy start to your day.

For a savory twist, fill them with vegan cheese and spinach or use as a base for a vegan sandwich with smoked tofu and fresh greens. They also make a striking accompaniment to brunch dishes like fresh fruit bowls or vegan quiches.

Looking for more vegan baking inspiration? Check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe for a fresh, flavorful meal or try the Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes for something savory and satisfying.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of vegan croissants with an activated charcoal twist is a rewarding challenge that brings a unique aesthetic and delightful flavor to your baking repertoire. These croissants combine the best of both worlds—the traditional French technique with modern, healthful ingredients that suit a vegan lifestyle.

With patience and attention to detail, you’ll create flaky, tender croissants that look stunning and taste incredible. Whether enjoyed plain or with your favorite fillings, these croissants are sure to become a beloved treat in your kitchen.

For more adventurous recipes, don’t miss our other culinary gems like the Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe or the refreshing Huckleberry Margarita Recipe. Happy baking!

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