There’s truly nothing like the simple magic of a Croissant with Butter and Jam: flaky pastry warmed to golden perfection, rich butter melting into every crevice, and a glossy jewel-toned jam bringing just the right amount of sweetness. This classic French breakfast is proof that a handful of honest, well-chosen ingredients can make you feel like you’ve escaped to a sun-dappled Parisian street. Whether you’re savoring a quiet morning or treating a friend, this timeless combination is my go-to when I want both comfort and pure delight in each bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Part of the beauty of Croissant with Butter and Jam is its elegant simplicity, with just a few ingredients coming together for spectacular results. Each element plays an irreplaceable role in the flavor, texture, and pure appeal of this dish—so choose them mindfully for the best possible breakfast treat!
- Fresh Croissants: The buttery, flaky layers are the heart of this dish—seek out the freshest ones you can buy or, if possible, bake yourself for ultimate indulgence.
- Unsalted Butter (softened): This adds richness and a creamy, salty contrast that perfectly balances the sweetness of the jam; European-style butter will take things even further.
- Fruit Jam or Preserves (such as strawberry, raspberry, or apricot): Jam provides a sweet, fruity burst that mingles beautifully with the crisp croissant and melty butter; homemade or premium jams bring out even more flavor.
How to Make Croissant with Butter and Jam
Step 1: Slice the Croissants
Start by taking your fresh croissants and, using a sharp serrated knife, slice them in half horizontally. Be gentle and slow—croissants are delicate and flaky, and you want to preserve their beautiful layered texture for the most enjoyable bite.
Step 2: Warm and Toast
Carefully place the croissant halves in a toaster oven or on a skillet over medium heat. Give them a couple of minutes until the cut sides are just lightly crisp and the whole croissant is warm. You’ll know they’re ready when you get a faint whiff of that irresistible, buttery aroma and the edges are perfectly golden.
Step 3: Spread the Butter
Take one tablespoon of softened unsalted butter for each croissant, spreading it smoothly over the bottom half. The heat from the croissant will help the butter melt slightly, seeping into all those lovely layers for extra flavor in every mouthful.
Step 4: Add the Jam
Now for that finishing touch—spoon one tablespoon of your favorite fruit jam or preserves onto the buttered side, swirling it gently to cover all the surfaces. The jam should mingle with the melted butter, creating a glossy, sweet, and buttery duet.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Place the top halves back on, press gently to help everything meld together, and serve at once. The Croissant with Butter and Jam is at its absolute best when enjoyed warm and fresh, right out of the toaster or skillet.
How to Serve Croissant with Butter and Jam

Garnishes
A Croissant with Butter and Jam shines beautifully on its own, but for an extra flourish, consider a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a delicate drizzle of honey across the top just before serving. If you want to make it especially eye-catching, dust with a bit of powdered sugar or add a couple of fresh berry slices on the plate.
Side Dishes
Pair your Croissant with Butter and Jam with a classic café au lait, fresh-squeezed orange juice, or a fruit salad for a refreshing complement. For a leisurely brunch, serve alongside soft scrambled eggs or a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to round out the meal without overpowering the croissant’s delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, consider serving Croissant with Butter and Jam open-faced to showcase the colorful jam and luxurious melted butter. Cut into slices for a shareable platter at brunch or add little bowls of assorted jams so everyone can customize their croissants to their liking. If you’re feeling extra creative, a few edible flowers or mint leaves make for an Instagram-worthy upgrade!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Croissant with Butter and Jam, let the croissants cool completely before storing. Wrap them loosely in foil or parchment and keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. Be mindful that the texture is always best soon after preparation.
Freezing
To freeze, it’s best to store the croissants themselves and add the butter and jam after reheating. Wrap croissants tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag; they’ll keep beautifully for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature for an hour or two before assembling.
Reheating
Warm leftover croissants in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5–7 minutes until crisp and heated through. If assembled already, reheat gently to avoid overcooking the jam; a few minutes in a toaster oven will do the trick and bring them back to near-original glory.
FAQs
What jam flavors work best with Croissant with Butter and Jam?
Classic strawberry, raspberry, and apricot are always winners, but feel free to experiment with fig, blackberry, or even cherry preserves. The key is to choose something with a bit of tartness to balance the buttery richness and flaky pastry.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Absolutely! Salted butter adds a flavor boost and pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the jam. If you love that sweet-salty combination, go for it—or sprinkle just a touch of flaky sea salt over the top before serving.
Are store-bought croissants okay for Croissant with Butter and Jam?
Store-bought croissants are perfect for this recipe, especially if you choose ones from a local bakery or high-quality supermarket. The key is freshness—avoid packaged croissants that feel dry or overly dense.
What’s the best way to soften butter quickly?
If your butter is too firm, cut it into small cubes and let it sit out for about 10 minutes, or gently microwave it at very low power in short bursts. You want it spreadable but not melted, so it glides smoothly over the warm croissant.
Can I assemble Croissant with Butter and Jam ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed freshly assembled, as the butter and jam keep the croissant from staying crisp. If needed, you can toast the croissants in advance, but wait to spread on the butter and jam until just before serving for the loveliest texture.
Final Thoughts
If you ask me, there’s no quicker ticket to breakfast heaven than a Croissant with Butter and Jam. This recipe is all about taking a few moments to indulge in something special—no bells or whistles, just pure pleasure in every flaky, buttery, fruity bite. Give it a try, and you’ll see why this simple treat is a favorite I’ll never outgrow!
Print
Croissant with Butter and Jam Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the classic French breakfast treat with this simple recipe for croissants filled with butter and jam. Perfectly toasted croissants with a buttery, fruity filling make for a delightful morning meal or snack.
Ingredients
Croissant:
- 4 fresh croissants
Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
Jam:
- 4 tablespoons fruit jam or preserves (such as strawberry, raspberry, or apricot)
Instructions
- Slice and Toast Croissants: Slice the croissants in half horizontally. Gently toast them in a toaster oven or on a skillet over medium heat until lightly crisped and warm.
- Spread Butter and Jam: Spread 1 tablespoon of softened butter on the bottom half of each croissant, followed by 1 tablespoon of jam.
- Assemble and Serve: Place the top halves back on and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For an elevated version, use high-quality European butter and homemade jam.
- You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Toasting
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 croissant
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg