National Croissant Day takes place on Thursday, January 30, and it could not arrive at a better time. Croissants are trending, both on social media and in kitchens across the country.

For operators, the croissant provides layers to their menus. The classic pastry is being transformed in a variety of ways thanks to creative minds globally. TikTok and Instagram have popularized croissant trends with the masses. 

Earlier this year, the ‘crookie’ took hold of foodies’ imaginations. A sweet addition to the buttery, flaky layers of the croissant, the crookie features spoonfuls of chocolate chip cookie dough baked inside and is often topped with powdered sugar. Some have bemoaned this trend as a far too extravagant alteration of a classic that doesn’t need it, but social media users and consumers have made it known that they’re on board.

Another unique version that has come on as of late is the ‘flattened croissant’ trend which originated in South Korea. It involves flattening a fresh croissant with a rolling pin or heavy press, coating it in butter and sugar or honey, and then baking or pan-frying it. They can be eaten plain, filled or topped with sweet or savory ingredients, or even used as a base for sandwiches.

To start the new year, the Chefs of the Mills team at General Mills Foodservice is showcasing the versatility of croissants in its January trends report. They demonstrate how the popular pastry can serve as the foundation for everything from a main dish to dessert.

“Croissant and croissant sandwiches are a perennial favorite among consumers at breakfast, but there are many exciting ways to serve croissants throughout the day,” says Chef Ted Osorio, a member of General Mills Foodservice’s culinary team who created the recipes in January’s trend report. “Foods that may have been considered a more traditional breakfast item are now enjoyed around the clock. There are no rules!”

Osorio says that consumers are leaning toward indulgence right now and seeking out elevated comfort foods.

“Croissants, when done well, give operations a way to create a variety of new stand-out menu items,” he says.

Pillsbury croissants help operators create menu magic with possibilities spanning from breakfast to dessert. Croissants continue to trend and adding them to the menu has never been easier with these versatile options.

Among the unique croissant recipe ideas General Mills Foodservice provides are Croissant Donuts, a Croissant Chorizo Smash Burger and Lemon Berry Croast, which capitalizes on the viral flattened croissant trend by baking Pillsbury Croissant Dough flattened to be crispy then topping with lemon curd and berries.