Rice paper is a delicate, translucent wrapper commonly found in various traditional Asian cuisine, notably in dishes like spring rolls and dumplings. Typically, it’s crafted from tapioca flour, rice starch, salt, and water.
In this article, we will walk you through the process of making rice paper croissants and consult with a dietitian about how they measure up against conventional croissants.
How to create rice paper croissants
While numerous adaptations of rice paper croissants appear on TikTok, the classic method involves whisking between two to five eggs in a bowl, combined with some whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, butter, cinnamon, and baking powder. Next, soak three to five rice papers in the egg mixture, divide them into three parts, roll them into a croissant shape, sprinkle sugar on top, and bake in an oven set to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 30 minutes. The final product boasts a soft, mochi-like interior paired with a crispy, flaky exterior.
@twaydabaeRice paper is sooo versatile!!! #croissant #ricepapercroissant
How do rice paper croissants stack up against traditional croissants?
Since rice paper is composed of tapioca flour and rice, these croissants are naturally gluten-free. However, they don’t differ significantly from standard croissants, as they still include ingredients like eggs, butter, sugar, and salt.
“If you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, this could be a suitable option,” suggests Bonnie Taub-Dix, RDN, host of the Media Savvy Podcast and creator of BetterThanDieting.com, as well as the author of Read It Before You Eat It — Taking You from Label to Table.
However, it’s important to note that rice paper is relatively low in protein and lacks fiber—important nutrients that contribute to satiety. “In my view, I wouldn’t recommend incorporating rice paper croissants into your daily diet under the assumption that they are necessarily healthier,” Taub-Dix explains.
For a more nutritious gluten-free croissant recipe at home, Taub-Dix advises opting for almond, sorghum, or oat flours instead of rice paper. These alternative flours are denser in nutrients and contain higher levels of fiber and protein, making them more satisfying.
Nonetheless, indulging in a rice paper croissant occasionally poses no issue. All types of croissants can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Check out these rice paper croissant recipes on TikTok
Ham and cheese
If savory delights are more your preference, consider trying this savory rice paper croissant recipe, which involves layering rice paper with slices of ham and cheese.
@tiffoodssIntroducing the Viral Rice Paper Croissant, but with a savory twist featuring ham and cheese! 🍖🧀🥐 The possibilities with rice paper are endless! Ingredients: 50g melted butter 4 eggs 30g water A dash of salt 10 rice paper sheets (5 each) Ham and cheese #ricepaper #ricepaperhack#ricepapercroissant #croissant
Red Bean Paste
For a dessert with an Asian twist, try filling your rice paper with sweet red bean paste, which can be sourced at any Asian grocery store. This paste is typically prepared using azuki beans, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
@eileenisReplying to @Esty they just keep getting better and better! I’ll be posting the rice paper croissant recipe tomorrow!! 🥐#ricepaper #ricepapercroissant #glutenfree #ricepaperrecipes #croissant #redbean #hamandcheese
Matcha and White Chocolate
Enhance your rice paper croissant with a dose of antioxidants by incorporating matcha powder into your egg mix and garnishing with additional matcha on top. One creator suggests adding a mango white chocolate filling for a delightful surprise.
@vancouverfoodieTrying @mindtmatcha’s recipe with matcha and filled with mango white chocolate 🙂 @Nancy and I used 4 rice paper sheets and sprinkled extra matcha on top 🍵 It’s chewy, crispy, and dense. Not as buttery as the traditional version, but enjoyable nonetheless 🙂 #ricepaperrolls #ricepapercroissant #ricepaperhack #ricepaperchallenge #matcha #matchalover
Image Source: stoicailian2 / Shutterstock
