Indulge your sweet tooth with these 18 decadent French desserts that will transport you to the City of Love. From classic crème brûlée and soufflé to innovative macarons and clafoutis, each recipe is a masterclass in elegance and sophistication. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these mouthwatering treats are sure to impress your friends and family.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the rich history of French patisserie, highlighting iconic desserts that have been delighting palates for centuries. From the creamy richness of pâte à choux to the delicate charm of madeleines, each dessert is a testament to the artistry and passion that goes into crafting the perfect sweet treat.
Stay tuned for our collection of 18 French dessert recipes that will satisfy your cravings and inspire you to get baking!
Classic Crème Brûlée
A rich and creamy dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make, crème brûlée is a timeless classic. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a decadent treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (125g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until smooth.
3. Add heavy cream, salt, and vanilla extract; whisk until well combined.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Pour into 4 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until set.
9. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
10. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar over each ramekin and caramelize with a kitchen torch.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Soufflé
A classic French dessert that never goes out of style, this chocolate soufflé is a show-stopper for any dinner party. With its light-as-air texture and deep, dark chocolate flavor, it’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 3 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), broken into small pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 1-quart soufflé dish and coat with granulated sugar.
2. Melt chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and heavy cream until smooth. Add egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt; whisk until combined.
4. Pour melted chocolate into the cream mixture; whisk until well combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared soufflé dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and set.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tarte Tatin
Tarte Tatin is a iconic French dessert that requires minimal effort but yields maximum flavor and presentation. This upside-down caramelized apple tart is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 apples, peeled and halved
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine sugar, butter, and apples. Cook over medium heat until apples are tender and caramelized.
3. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place the pastry over the apple mixture, tucking edges underneath.
4. Brush egg wash over the pastry and cut a few slits in the top for steam release.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before inverting onto a serving plate.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Profiteroles with Vanilla Ice Cream
Treat yourself to a delightful dessert by pairing flaky profiterole shells with creamy vanilla ice cream and drizzle with chocolate sauce. This classic French treat is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vanilla ice cream, for serving
– Chocolate sauce, for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add butter and mix until dough forms.
3. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into squares.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely.
5. Fill cooled profiteroles with scoops of vanilla ice cream.
6. Drizzle with chocolate sauce and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Macarons with Raspberry Filling
A classic French dessert, macarons are a delight to make and eat. This recipe combines the delicate meringue-based cookies with a sweet and tangy raspberry filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup raspberry jam
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together almond flour and powdered sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whip egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a round tip.
6. Pipe small, round circles onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Tap the baking sheet gently to remove any air bubbles.
8. Allow macarons to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until firm and lightly browned.
10. Allow macarons to cool completely before filling with raspberry jam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clafoutis with Cherries
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of fresh cherries baked in a rich batter, perfect for a warm-weather dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add milk, eggs, and melted butter; whisk until smooth.
4. Arrange cherries in a 9×13-inch baking dish; pour batter over them.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the clafoutis puffed.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pâte à Choux with Caramel Glaze
Pâte à choux is a classic French pastry dough that yields crispy, airy shells perfect for filling with sweet or savory treats. This recipe pairs the pâte à choux with a rich caramel glaze for a show-stopping dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1/4 cup (60g) butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten
– Caramel glaze (recipe below)
Pâte à Choux:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Add flour all at once, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon to form a smooth dough.
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat. Let cool slightly.
5. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
Caramel Glaze:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Combine sugar and cream in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
Increase heat to high and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
Assembly:
Pipe pâte à choux into desired shapes. Drizzle with caramel glaze while still warm. Let cool completely before serving.
Mille-Feuille with Pastry Cream
This classic French pastry is a layered masterpiece of puff pastry, pastry cream, and fruit preserves. With its flaky crust, creamy filling, and sweet-tart flavors, Mille-Feuille is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 cup pastry cream (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh berries and fruit preserves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut into rectangles, about 4 inches wide and 6 inches long.
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow pastry to cool completely before assembling the Mille-Feuille.
6. Spread pastry cream over cooled puff pastry, leaving a small border around edges.
7. Top with fresh berries and fruit preserves.
8. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Paris-Brest with Praline Cream
Experience the rich flavors of France with this classic Paris-Brest cake, paired with a decadent praline cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) praline cream (see below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Praline Cream:
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, milk, and salt.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow the cake to cool completely.
6. To make praline cream, whip heavy cream, butter, sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until stiff peaks form.
7. Slice the cooled cake and top with praline cream.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Canelés de Bordeaux
These delicate, rum-infused French pastries are a classic Bordeaux specialty. With their crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior, Canelés de Bordeaux are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons rum (optional)
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, milk, sugar, and salt until smooth.
3. Add yeast and let mixture sit for 5 minutes or until foamy.
4. Whisk in eggs and rum (if using).
5. Pour batter into prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 of the way full.
6. Brush tops with vegetable oil.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crêpes Suzette with Orange Sauce
Experience the quintessential French dessert, Crêpes Suzette, infused with a tangy and sweet orange sauce. This classic treat is sure to delight your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 2 tablespoons Grand Marnier or Cointreau liqueur (optional)
– Whipped cream and orange zest for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, eggs, milk, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add melted butter and sugar; whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in 1/4 cup of batter; cook for 2 minutes or until edges start to curl.
4. Loosen the crêpe with a spatula; flip and cook for an additional minute.
5. Repeat with remaining batter, making about 8-10 crêpes.
6. In a saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, and liqueur (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Add cooked crêpes to the sauce; toss to coat.
8. Serve warm, topped with whipped cream and orange zest.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Financiers with Almond Flour
These French-inspired financiers are a delightful twist on the classic recipe, using almond flour for added crunch and nutty flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup (60g) almond flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar and melted butter until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold into the sugar mixture until smooth.
4. Add almond flour, salt, and vanilla extract; fold until just combined.
5. Spoon 1-tablespoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) between each financier.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Galette des Rois with Frangipane
This classic French dessert is a staple of Epiphany celebrations, filled with sweet almond paste and topped with a flaky pastry crust. Our recipe simplifies the process while maintaining its signature flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup frangipane (almond paste)
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread frangipane evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Fold the edges up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
5. Brush egg wash (beaten egg mixed with sugar and salt) over the crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Madeleines with Lemon Zest
These delicate French cakes, flavored with the brightness of lemon zest, are perfect for a springtime treat or as a elegant addition to your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 3/4 cup (85g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a madeleine pan and dust with flour.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and lemon zest.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter and eggs until smooth. Add vanilla extract and whisk to combine.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.
6. Allow madeleines to cool in pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Opéra Cake with Coffee Buttercream
Experience the rich flavors of France with this classic Opéra Cake, elevated by a mocha-infused coffee buttercream. This multi-layered masterpiece is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the coffee buttercream:
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee
– 2 teaspoons instant coffee powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. Prepare the cake batter according to instructions. Divide evenly among prepared pans.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
4. Allow cakes to cool completely.
5. Prepare the coffee buttercream by whipping softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add brewed and instant coffee powder, and salt; mix well.
6. Assemble the cake by spreading a layer of buttercream on each cooled cake, then stacking and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (cake) + 10-15 minutes (buttercream)
Pain Perdu with Cinnamon
Start your day with a sweet and buttery breakfast treat, infused with the warmth of cinnamon. This classic French recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (100g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup (115g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and cinnamon.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, eggs, and melted butter.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Pour the batter into a buttered 8-inch (20cm) square baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Poires Belle Hélène with Chocolate Sauce
Poires Belle Hélène is a decadent French dessert that combines caramelized pears, creamy vanilla ice cream, and rich chocolate sauce. This recipe is an easy and impressive way to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe pears (Bartlett or Bosc)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 pint vanilla ice cream
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel, halve, and core the pears.
3. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, water, and pears. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the pears are caramelized (about 10 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and let cool.
5. Scoop vanilla ice cream into bowls.
6. Top with caramelized pears and drizzle with chocolate sauce (made by melting dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Saint-Honoré with Chantilly Cream
Experience the classic French dessert, Saint-Honoré, elevated by a rich and creamy Chantilly topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Chantilly Cream (recipe below)
Chantilly Cream:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and melted butter.
3. Add the yeast mixture, beaten egg, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oval shape.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Chantilly Cream:
1. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add softened butter and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Dust the warm Saint-Honoré with confectioners’ sugar, then top with Chantilly Cream. Serve and enjoy!
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors and textures of France’s most decadent desserts. From classic Crème Brûlée to iconic Tarte Tatin, these 18 recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Discover the art of soufflé-making with Chocolate Soufflé, or delight in the delicate charm of Macarons with Raspberry Filling. Whether you’re a fan of creamy Pâte à Choux or the elegance of Mille-Feuille, this collection has something for everyone. Treat yourself to a taste of French patisserie with these irresistible dessert recipes.