Golden, flaky, and irresistibly buttery, the croissant is the quintessential French pastry. Whether enjoyed fresh from a Provençal bakery or carefully crafted in your own kitchen, this delicacy has a fascinating history and holds a unique place in French culture. But how did this beloved pastry come to be, and what makes it so special? Before sharing with you some of the best places to enjoy croissants in Aix-enProvence or Marseille, let’s dive together into the story of the croissant.

A Pastry Born from History

The origins of the croissant are widely debated, but one thing is certain: it was not invented in France. Some trace its roots to Austria, where a crescent-shaped pastry called kipferl was enjoyed as early as the 13th century. Others associate its creation with Ottoman sieges in Europe, particularly the Battle of Vienna in 1683. According to legend, Viennese bakers, working late into the night, heard Ottoman forces tunneling beneath the city and raised the alarm, helping secure victory. To celebrate, they created a pastry in the shape of a crescent, reminiscent of the moon on the Ottoman flag. And thus, the croissant was born.

The French Touch

Although its origins are foreign, the croissant as we know it today is undeniably French. Austrian artillery officer August Zang is credited with bringing it to France when he opened a Viennese bakery in Paris in 1839. His pastries quickly became a sensation, inspiring French bakers to experiment with the recipe and perfect the art of laminating dough, giving the croissant its signature flaky layers. By the early 20th century, the croissant had become a staple of French bakeries.

What Makes a Perfect Croissant?

The secret to an exceptional croissant lies in its ingredients and technique. High-quality butter, with a fat content above 82%, is essential for achieving a light and airy texture along with a rich flavor. The dough undergoes a meticulous lamination process, where it is folded multiple times with layers of butter, creating its signature crisp yet tender structure. The result? A pastry that is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and irresistibly fragrant.

The Art of Enjoying a Croissant

In France, croissants are typically enjoyed plain—no need to add butter or jam, as they are already rich in flavor. A classic breakfast pairing is a croissant with a café crème, leisurely savored at a Provençal café. While variations such as croissant aux amandes (almond croissant) or ham-and-cheese-filled croissants exist, purists insist that a well-made plain croissant needs no embellishment.

Where to Find the Best Croissants in Aix-en-Provence and Marseille

If you’re in Provence and looking for the finest croissants, here are some must-visit bakeries :

• Pâtisserie Weibel (Aix-en-Provence) – A beloved institution known for its delicate, buttery croissants.
• Maison Saint-Honoré by Arnaud Soulat (Aix-en-Provence) – Famous for its artisanal approach and high-quality ingredients.
• Boulangerie Aixoise (Aix-en-Provence) – A hidden gem offering some of the finest viennoiseries in town.
• Pain Pan (Marseille) – A must-visit bakery known for its exceptional craftsmanship.
• La Boutique du Glacier (Marseille) – A charming spot offering delicious, flaky croissants.
• Carlotta With (Marseille) – A bakery celebrated for its high-quality ingredients and traditional methods.
• Maison César (Marseille) – A favorite for its rich, buttery croissants with perfect layers.
• La Fabrique (Marseille) – A modern take on classic French baking with outstanding croissants.

Learn to Bake Your Own Croissants

If you’ve ever dreamed of mastering the art of the French croissant, why not try making them yourself ? Our Croissant & French Pastry Workshop is designed for food lovers who want to learn the secrets of traditional French baking. Guided by expert pastry chefs, you’ll discover step-by-step techniques to create perfect, buttery croissants from scratch. Join us for an unforgettable experience and bring a taste of Provence to your own kitchen!

Ready to roll up your sleeves and bake? Book your class today and start your delicious culinary journey!