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L.A.โ€™s Croissant Craze Takes a Global Turn

Pastry Chefs Reimagine the Classic with Heritage Flavors

Los Angelesโ€™s already fervent love affair with croissants is evolving, as bakers move beyond traditional French techniques to incorporate flavors and traditions from around the world. This shift reflects the cityโ€™s diverse culinary landscape and a desire for innovation in a beloved pastry.

A Rebellion Against Tradition

Pastry chef Sharon Wang, owner of Sugarbloom Bakery in Glassell Park, intentionally challenged her classical European training when developing her signature kimchi Spam musubi croissant. โ€œThe idea came from the diversity of L.A. and also a rebellion against working for an organization that favors only European ingredients,โ€ she says.

Nostalgia Baked In

In Victor Heights, Jennifer Yee, chef-owner of Bakers Bench, is drawing on her family history with an egg roll croissant. โ€œThe egg roll croissant is something Iโ€™m really proud of,โ€ says Yee. โ€œMy paternal parents owned a Chinese restaurant in Columbus, Ohio and they were known for their egg rolls,โ€ she adds. โ€œIt tastes very nostalgic if you grew up in the Midwest eating Chinese American food.โ€

According to a recent report by the American Bakers Association, specialty pastries like croissants now account for nearly 15% of all bakery sales, demonstrating a growing consumer demand for unique and flavorful treats. (American Bakers Association)

A Taste of Home

The trend extends beyond Korean and Chinese-American influences. A Silver Lake bakery now offers croissants inspired by the Cubano sandwich, paying tribute to the neighborhoodโ€™s Cuban community. In Pasadena, a baker is infusing Persian heritage into a popular croissant shape. From Argentine-inspired fillings to Korean flavors, the croissant is becoming a versatile canvas for local pastry chefs.

Sharon Wangโ€™s kimchi Spam musubi croissant at Sugarbloom Bakery.

This wave of globally-inspired croissants isnโ€™t just about novelty; itโ€™s about chefs connecting with their roots and sharing their cultural stories through a universally loved pastry. The croissantโ€™s enduring appeal, combined with the creativity of L.A.โ€™s bakers, promises a continued evolution of this flaky, buttery delight.

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